Automated warehouses: robots, AGVs and people
The specialisation warehouse operator for automated warehouses, the rules for driverless trucks and where the large warehouses are
Introduction
More and more warehouses use robots, driverless trucks and automated high-bay warehouses. The warehouse and terminal programme therefore has a specialisation at level 2 called «warehouse operator for automated warehouses» (BEK no. 175 of 28/01/2026 § 1).
What are an AGV and an AMR?
An AGV (automated guided vehicle) is a driverless truck that runs along fixed routes — e.g. following magnets, reflectors or lines in the floor. An AMR (autonomous mobile robot) finds its own way with sensors and a map of the warehouse and can drive around obstacles. Both move pallets and boxes without a driver. In addition, there are automated high-bay warehouses where cranes and conveyors put the goods in place.
Does the robot need a certificate?
No. Forklift trucks and stackers that are part of an automated system do not require a forklift certificate (BEK no. 1978 of 27/10/2021 § 7, subsection 5, no. 3). But the people who work at the system must be trained and instructed to do it safely. And where driverless machines and pedestrians move in the same area, the work must be organised so that the pedestrians do not get hurt (BEK no. 428 of 05/04/2022 § 35).
Course
There is an AMU course for those who will work with the robots: 49727 «Operating self-driving robots for operators». It lasts 2 days.
New rules for new machinery
From 20 January 2027, the EU Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 applies to new machinery placed on the market. It replaces the Machinery Directive and applies directly in all EU countries. Machinery placed on the market under the old directive before that date may still be sold and used (art. 52).
Where are the large warehouses?
The chart shows where the largest warehouse buildings are — those of at least 5,000 m² — by municipality, according to the BBR. Notice that the large warehouses cluster in relatively few municipalities. That is where the big distribution and terminal warehouses are.