An Automatic Truck Loading and Unloading System (ATLS) is a comprehensive, integrated solution designed to automate the process of transferring large unitized loads (such as pallets, slipsheets, or custom platforms) into and out of standard or specialized truck trailers.
The primary goal of ATLS is to significantly reduce truck dwell time at the loading dock, eliminate manual labor within the trailer, and enhance safety and efficiency in high-volume distribution and manufacturing environments.
ATLS operates by moving the entire load (or large sections of it) as a single unit in one rapid motion, often achieving turnaround times of under 10 minutes per truck.
The investment in ATLS yields significant benefits across logistics and safety:
ATLS technologies are primarily categorized by the method of load transfer:
| System Type | Mechanism | Typical Freight |
Speed & Compatibility
|
| Chain/Slat Conveyors | Dock-side chains or slats extend into the trailer, engage specialized load-runners or pallets, and pull the entire load out in one synchronized motion. | Palletized, uniform loads. |
Extremely Fast (3–7 minutes). Requires some trailer modification (steel plates/guides).
|
| Rollerbed/Skate Systems | Motorized rollers on the dock interface with rollers embedded in the trailer floor. | Palletized, uniform loads. |
Fast. Requires full trailer modification with roller tracks.
|
| Mobile Robotic Systems (MRTL) | Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) or specialized load-carrying robots drive into the trailer to place or retrieve pallets. | Palletized, mixed-case (robots with arms). |
Flexible. No trailer modification needed. Can be slower than bulk conveyors.
|
| Push/Pull Plate Systems | A wide, hydraulic plate or pusher arm gently pushes the entire staged load from the dock onto the trailer floor or a slipsheet. | Stacked, floor-loaded goods, or slipsheeted items. |
Fast. Requires minimal trailer adaptation.
|
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