3 Reasons Why Autonomous Mobile Robots Are Better Than Drones for Inventory Management in Distribution Centers

Optimized inventory management is essential to retailers and CPG (consumer packaged goods) brands throughout the supply chain, with each touchpoint impacting operational efficiency and profitability. At times, drones have been at the forefront of discussion around inventory management within distribution center environments, notably for their potential to autonomously carry out inventory checks.

However, a closer look reveals significant challenges that often outweigh their benefits.

In contrast, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) present a far more effective solution. They offer seamless navigation without pausing inventory processes and provide near real-time insights with little to no human intervention required.

Why AMRs Outperform Drones for Inventory Management

While drone technology has evolved, deploying it for inventory management comes with considerable challenges. AMRs are proving to be a superior choice than drones for inventory management for three main reasons:

1. Continuous Operation and Power Efficiency

AMRs are engineered for long-term performance — they can operate continuously for as long as 10 hours, making them capable of running for extended periods of time with minimal downtime. When power runs low, they autonomously navigate to their charging stations, ensuring continuous productivity.

In comparison, drones typically offer far shorter battery life, ranging from only two minutes to 25 minutes, requiring frequent recharges that can disrupt warehouse operations. This limitation makes drones much less practical for large-scale operations considering that AMRs can operate more than 24x longer on a single charge.

2. Seamless Integration With Existing Workflows

AMRs seamlessly integrate into the workflow of operations, complementing both human workers and other machinery with little disruption. Advanced technology like 3D LiDAR and cameras allow AMRs to autonomously navigate in dynamic environments, adapting to layout changes and shifting needs in real time. This adaptability ensures that AMRs enhance operational efficiency while smoothly adjusting to new conditions as they arise.

Conversely, drones often require predefined flight paths and face limitations in operating within confined or cluttered spaces. Their reliance on external systems like GPS (which is unreliable indoors), visual markers, RFID systems, or human operators for navigation and safety introduces delays or disruptions of other operations, especially in active warehouse environments. AMRs, operating at ground level, avoid many of these challenges, allowing for smoother integration into daily activities.

3. Enhanced Safety and Reliability

AMRs are equipped with advanced obstacle detection sensors, allowing them to operate safely around people, equipment and other obstacles. Their ground-level movements reduce the risk of accidents and provide a reliable, consistent alternative to manual tasks.

By comparison, drones pose more significant safety concerns, particularly indoors. A 2021 study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information identified crashes and other failures as primary risks associated with drone operations inside warehouses.

Additionally, the powerful drafts created by drones can dislodge materials like shrink wrap or packing tape, creating additional safety risks for employees. Drones can also become entangled in loose materials, potentially disabling them and requiring human intervention to resolve the issue. Reports by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) highlight various injuries associated with drones, underscoring the risks involved in their use.

AMRs Are the Future of Inventory Management

As retailers and CPG brands focus on improving inventory tracking in the supply chain, it's important to know that not all technology works the same way. Drones might seem interesting because they can scan from above, but AMRs offer a better solution. AMRs are safer, more reliable, and work smoothly with existing systems to make operations run more efficiently.

Zeena Keshwji is senior product manager at Brain Corp, an autonomous technology company powering the most proven robots and AI.