In the rapidly evolving landscape of warehouse automation, it’s easy to focus on the newest technologies—autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), vertical lift modules (VLMs), automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), and other innovations driving efficiencies. Yet amid all the excitement about cutting-edge solutions, one critical technology continues to prove itself indispensable: the conveyor.
For decades, conveyors have served as the backbone of material handling systems, providing reliable, efficient, and scalable movement of goods across warehouses and distribution centers. At PeakLogix, conveyors are not part of every project, but they are always part of the conversation. Whenever the application calls for them, conveyors integrate seamlessly with advanced automation technologies to create systems that are greater than the sum of their parts.
A key reason we continue to rely on conveyors is our long-standing partnership with companies like MHS Conveyor—a trusted American manufacturer known for delivering high-quality, durable conveyor systems since 1964. MHS conveyors are designed for fast installation, ease of ownership, low maintenance, and long service life, making them a natural fit for PeakLogix projects.
In this blog, we’ll explore why conveyors continue to play an essential role in modern warehouse automation, even as new technologies emerge. We’ll highlight some of the most popular conveyor technologies available today and show why MHS Conveyor has earned its reputation for building some of the most reliable, efficient, and innovative conveyors in the industry.
Why Conveyors Still Matter in Modern Automation
Warehouse operations are becoming more complex as consumer expectations for speed and accuracy rise. While AMRs and AS/RS can dramatically improve efficiency, conveyors still provide unmatched advantages in certain applications:
- Consistent Throughput: Conveyors enable predictable, steady flow of goods across zones.
- Reliability: Conveyors excel in high-volume environments.
- Integration Flexibility: Today’s conveyors interface seamlessly with scanning, labeling, sortation, robotics, and storage systems.
- Space Utilization: Configurable layouts help warehouses maximize vertical and horizontal space.
By blending conveyors with other automation technologies, PeakLogix ensures clients have systems tailored to their exact operational needs.
IntelliROL® Motorized Roller Conveyors
Among the wide range of conveyors offered by MHS, IntelliROL® motorized roller conveyors (MDR) have emerged as one of the most popular and fastest-growing solutions. These conveyors feature individually powered rollers that can be controlled by zone, allowing for accumulation, precise product movement, and energy savings.
Key specifications include:
- Capacity: 50 lbs/foot or up to 75 lbs/product.
- Product lengths: Minimum of 6”.
- Widths: Standard options range from 16” to 34”.
- Zones: As compact as 18”–36”.
- Speed: Up to 425 feet per minute.
MDR technology is ideal for applications requiring high throughput and gentle handling of cartons, totes, and other unit loads. It’s no surprise this segment of conveyors has seen sustained growth, as it provides the performance and adaptability modern warehouses demand.
CRUZbelt® Conveyors: Smooth, Quiet, and Efficient
For environments where belt conveyors are best suited, the CRUZbelt® conveyor from MHS offers a proven solution with distinctive benefits. Unlike traditional belt conveyors, CRUZbelt is engineered for smooth and quiet operation, ensuring not only reliable product flow but also a more comfortable workspace for employees.
Key strengths of CRUZbelt conveyors include:
- Innovative design: Engineered for energy efficiency and reduced noise.
- Durability: Built for long life and minimal maintenance.
- Performance: Delivers consistent belt tracking and reliable product transport.
Whether used for incline/decline applications, long-distance transport, or integration with sortation systems, CRUZbelt provides versatility while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.
NBC® – Narrow Belt Driven Roller Conveyor
When precision handling and zone control are critical, the NBC® (Narrow Belt Conveyor) driven roller conveyor stands out. Designed to move products smoothly and quietly, NBC uses a series of narrow belts to drive rollers, allowing for controlled accumulation and high flexibility in material flow.
Highlights of NBC include:
- High versatility: Handles a wide range of product sizes and weights.
- Energy efficiency: Zones powered only when needed.
- Scalability: Modular design for easy system expansion.
- Reliability: Quiet, low-maintenance operation.
This makes NBC conveyors particularly effective for applications such as order fulfillment centers and distribution hubs where gentle handling and accuracy are paramount.
A Partnership Built on Reliability: PeakLogix and MHS
Since 1964, MHS Conveyor has been manufacturing conveyors in the USA, building a reputation for quality, innovation, and dependability. Their designs prioritize not only operational efficiency but also the total cost of ownership—ensuring ease of service, quick installation, and longevity.
PeakLogix has relied on MHS conveyors for years because they deliver on what matters most:
- Performance: High throughput and consistent reliability.
- Flexibility: A wide product range to meet diverse applications.
- Durability: Systems built to last in demanding warehouse environments.
Together, PeakLogix and MHS create warehouse solutions that combine conveyors with advanced automation technologies like AMRs, VLMs, pallet load and mini-load AS/RS, and more. The result is a custom-engineered system that helps clients optimize operations, reduce costs, and stay ahead of their competition.
Building the Ultimate Custom Solution
While Amazon is often recognized for its early adoption of AMRs, conveyors remain absolutely central to its warehouse automation strategies. In fact, conveyors continue to be one of the most widely used technologies in facilities of all sizes—proving their value for both global enterprises and smaller operations alike. Every warehouse is unique, with different product types, throughput requirements, and growth objectives. That’s why PeakLogix doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we leverage the breadth of MHS’s conveyor offerings—including IntelliROL MDR, CRUZbelt, and NBC—alongside other advanced technologies to design systems that perfectly align with client needs.
Whether you need:
- A high-throughput order fulfillment system.
- Gentle handling for fragile products.
- Flexible, scalable solutions to accommodate growth.
- Seamless integration with robotics and storage systems.
PeakLogix can engineer a solution that maximizes performance and ROI.
The Future of Conveyors in Automation
While the pace of innovation in warehouse automation shows no signs of slowing, conveyors continue to prove their relevance. Their ability to integrate with emerging technologies ensures they will remain vital in modern and future distribution centers.
At PeakLogix, we see conveyors not as outdated infrastructure, but as enduring tools that—when paired with the latest automation—enable warehouses to achieve new levels of efficiency and productivity. With trusted partners like MHS Conveyor, we are committed to delivering systems that stand the test of time.
Start Building Your Solution Today
The right automation system starts with the right partner. With decades of expertise and a proven track record, PeakLogix is ready to help you design and implement a conveyor system—or a fully integrated warehouse solution—that drives results.
Contact PeakLogix today to begin building your automation plan.
