Abstract
Material handling is a critical aspect of industrial and marine operations, ensuring the efficient movement, storage, control, and protection of goods and materials. It enhances productivity, reduces costs, and minimizes workplace hazards through specialized equipment such as conveyors, cranes, forklifts, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotics, and storage systems. In marine applications, material handling equipment is vital for shipbuilding, port logistics, and offshore operations, utilizing durable cranes, hoists, and conveyor systems designed for harsh environments. With advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT), material handling systems now feature real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and improved safety measures. The Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) methodology offers a structured approach to evaluating equipment effectiveness based on key criteria, such as Positioning Equipment, Unit Load Formation Equipment, Storage Equipment, and Identification and Control Equipment. An assessment of alternative solutions—Air Film Devices, Slipsheets, Manipulators, Bar Codes, and Magnetic Stripes—ranked Air Film Devices highest in efficiency, while Manipulators ranked lowest. Selecting the right material handling equipment is essential for optimizing industrial and maritime operations, improving productivity, and ensuring a safe working environment through technological advancements and systematic evaluation methods