From continuous handling to automated systems
Continuous handling - Introduction

The term "handling" is often associated with the use of forklift trucks alone, in which case it refers to discontinuous handling. But there are other, lesser-known methods, such as belt conveyors and overhead conveyors, which are used for continuous handling.

Certain sectors, such as the automotive and food industries, as well as the service sector (airports, postal services), have led to the development of continuous, bulk and single-load handling systems, to cope with the volume and speed of mass production.

In simple terms, continuous handling is an evolution of discontinuous handling, brought about by the needs of industrialized production.

The definition in the Hachette Encyclopedia states: