Mobile Robotics in Manufacturing: MiR1200 Pallet Jack Launches in Louisville

Manufacturers in Kentucky had the opportunity to see firsthand how mobile robotics can streamline material handling at the recent MiR1200 Pallet Jack demonstration in Louisville. Presented by NEFF Automation and MiR, the event showcased the latest in autonomous pallet transport technology, highlighting how Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs) are changing the way facilities move heavy loads.

Where AMRs Fit in Manufacturing

For manufacturers with repetitive material movement—such as transferring raw materials to workstations, delivering finished goods to staging areas, or moving WIP (Work in Progress) between process steps—AMRs offer a flexible, scalable solution. Unlike fixed conveyors or manually operated forklifts, AMRs don’t require permanent infrastructure and can be deployed in existing workflows without major facility changes.

The MiR1200 Pallet Jack, designed to move loads up to 1200 kg at speeds of 1.5 m/s, features AI-based perception to improve efficiency in pallet handling. Instead of relying on fixed routes or external tracking, it dynamically navigates busy factory floors, avoiding obstacles while optimizing paths for pickup and delivery.

Real-World Use Cases

An AMR pallet jack makes sense for manufacturers that:

• Move pallets between fixed locations repeatedly, such as between receiving docks and storage areas.
• Operate shift-based production and need consistent material movement without relying on available labor.
• Manage space constraints where forklifts may not be the safest or most efficient option.
• Aim to reduce non-value-added tasks, allowing operators to focus on production instead of transport.

For example, a stamping plant that needs to shuttle raw steel coils to multiple press stations could automate these movements with an AMR pallet jack, ensuring each station receives material just in time. Likewise, a contract packaging facility processing bulk shipments could use the MiR1200 to streamline pallet transfers from assembly lines to outbound staging, minimizing downtime between runs.

Cost Considerations

While AMRs reduce manual handling and free up workers for higher-value tasks, the cost of implementation is a factor. The MiR1200 Pallet Jack comes with a base price of $165,000, plus costs for software, charging stations, and any necessary integration with existing systems. For manufacturers moving high volumes of material in predictable patterns, the investment can quickly pay off through labor savings and improved workflow efficiency.

Next Steps

For Kentucky manufacturers considering AMRs for their operations, now is the time to evaluate where automation can provide the most return on investment. As labor shortages persist and demand for flexible automation grows, technologies like the MiR1200 Pallet Jack offer a practical way to keep materials moving efficiently—without requiring major infrastructure changes.