Automated Guided Vehicle and Autonomous Mobile Robot (AGV / AMR) — definition
Automated Guided Vehicle and Autonomous Mobile Robot (AGV / AMR) are unmanned vehicles used to transport materials within a facility, differing in navigation method and route flexibility.
AGVs typically follow fixed paths defined by magnetic tape, wires or markers, while AMRs use onboard sensors and mapping software to navigate dynamically and reroute around obstacles. Both are used for tasks such as moving raw materials, work-in-progress or finished goods between stations and warehouses.
Why it matters to industrial buyers
Choosing between AGV and AMR technology affects facility infrastructure requirements, flexibility to layout changes and capital cost.
Key reference points
Navigation basis
AGVs commonly rely on fixed guidance infrastructure; AMRs commonly use simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM) software.
Layout flexibility
AMRs are commonly favoured where facility layouts or routes change frequently, since rerouting requires no physical infrastructure change.
Commonly confused with
AMR vs AGV
AGVs follow a fixed, pre-defined path requiring physical guidance markers; AMRs navigate dynamically using onboard mapping and can adapt routes without infrastructure changes.
How it is used in practice
A warehouse replaced its wire-guided AGVs with AMRs to allow flexible rerouting as storage racking layouts were reconfigured.
Frequently asked questions
Are AMRs always more expensive than AGVs?
Not necessarily; while AMR unit cost can be higher, AGVs may require costly infrastructure installation that offsets the difference.
Can AGVs and AMRs operate in the same facility?
Yes, mixed fleets are used, though fleet management software must coordinate their differing navigation approaches.
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Related terms
Warehouse Automation
Warehouse automation is the application of automated storage, retrieval and material handling technology to receive, store, pick and dispatch goods with reduced manual handling.
Conveying System
Conveying system is equipment that transports materials or products between process stations using mechanisms such as belts, rollers, chains or pneumatic transfer, without manual handling.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) refers to networks of connected sensors, devices and machines that collect and exchange operational data to support monitoring, analytics and automation across a facility.
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Reference content only. Global B2B Group is independent of equipment manufacturers and financing institutions; definitions are provided for education and do not constitute engineering, financial or legal advice.