What is an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle)?

Why autonomous logistics is becoming increasingly logical, also for Belgian SMEs

The internal logistics of companies is changing rapidly. Due to staff shortages, higher volumes, and increasingly strict delivery deadlines, warehouses are evolving from a traditional shop floor into a connected logistics ecosystem .

One of the most reliable building blocks of that ecosystem is the AGV : an autonomous vehicle that moves pallets or goods without a driver. What seemed like a pipe dream ten years ago is today a realistic, scalable, and affordable solution for SMEs.

What is an AGV?

An AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) is an autonomous robotic vehicle that transports goods internally without a human operator. It moves pallets, containers, or materials between fixed points in a warehouse, factory, or distribution environment.

An AGV is therefore not a forklift or stacker operated by an operator, but a fully automated transport system that performs repetitive tasks independently.

AGVs are increasingly used in:

• warehouse automation
• production and assembly lines
• e-commerce fulfillment
• distribution centers
• refrigerated and frozen environments

Their predictability and error-free operation make them a core component of modern material flow optimization .

How does an AGV work?

An AGV combines three major technical pillars:

1. Navigation (LiDAR, laser, vision, markers)

AGVs determine their position based on:

• LiDAR scanning (360° laser scans)
• laser triangulation
• vision-based navigation (cameras, AI detection)
• QR markers, reflectors or magnetic strips
• SLAM technology (Simultaneous Localization And Mapping)

This means the vehicle always knows exactly:

• where it is located
• which route it should follow

• what obstacles are in the environment

2. Safety sensors (360° detection)

AGVs are equipped with multiple safety layers as standard:

• front and rear laser scanners
• bumpers and emergency stop zones
• 360° obstacle detection
• dynamic speed control when approaching people or vehicles

The system automatically stops when encountering unexpected objects, virtually eliminating the risk of collisions and incidents .

3. Software & integration

AGVs communicate with:

• your WMS (Warehouse Management System)
• your ERP system
• charging stations
• safety zones
• other AGVs or AMRs

Through these connections, the system plans routes, allocates tasks, and monitors status in real time. This means an AGV doesn't operate in isolation, but as part of an intelligent logistics network .

Why do companies choose an AGV?

• Continuity and predictability
  An AGV runs day and night, without breaks or failures.
• Fast ROI
  Due to lower labor costs and error-free operation, investments are often recouped within 12–36 months.
• Safety in the workplace
  Collisions, damage and near misses decrease dramatically.
• Less physical strain on employees
  Repetitive, monotonous and heavy journeys disappear.

• Scalability
  You can start with one vehicle; expanding is done step by step.

AGVs: a logical step for SMEs

Autonomous logistics is no longer the preserve of large multinationals. With HELI's latest AGV platforms, automation:

• affordable
• trustworthy
• easy to integrate
• suitable for both small and large warehouses

For many companies, an AGV is the first and most feasible step towards a more autonomous, efficient and safe warehouse environment .

Is an AGV right for your warehouse?

That depends on, among other things:

• your current material flow
• the distance of your conveyor belts
• the number of repetitive movements
• available space
• safety requirements
• integration options with your software

But one thing is certain: almost every SME already has processes that can be automated.

At Immer-Goed nv, we're happy to discuss your needs with you, without obligation. Together, we'll determine which steps are feasible and which technology best suits your logistics environment.