The movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout the process of their manufacture, distribution, consumption, and disposal, as defined by the Material Handling Industry of America. Materials handling is not just about equipment for storage and movement, it also includes controls that direct movement, packaging tools, and techniques that protect goods as they flow from point to point. However, no amount of equipment, automation, or information technology can take the place of a well-designed system that facilitates the steady flow of goods through manufacturing and distribution facilities.