An Automated Guided Vehicle, or AGV, was first introduced in the 1950s and was originally designed to follow a fixed path using a wire embedded in the floor. Today’s AGVs are more advanced, but the core concept remains the same: they follow a predefined route.

Modern AGVs typically navigate using:

• Magnetic tape or strips
• Induction wires
• Colored or reflective floor tape
• LiDAR-based guidance

Because AGVs rely on fixed paths, any route change usually requires modifying the guidance system. Our AGVs are equipped with safety sensors to detect obstacles, but instead of rerouting, they slow down or stop until the path is clear.

AGVs are best suited for:

• Repetitive, predictable material movement
• Large facilities with stable layouts
• Applications where routes rarely change

With the right fleet management software, AGVs can be configured to improve consistency and throughput across production or warehouse operations.

An Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) performs the same task, moving materials from point A to point B, but operates differently.

Instead of following a fixed route, AMRs:

• Create and use a digital map of the facility
• Plan their own paths in real time
• Navigate around obstacles rather than stopping
• Adapt more easily to layout changes

AMRs use sensors such as LiDAR, cameras, and onboard computing to understand their surroundings. This makes them more flexible, especially in environments where people, forklifts, and equipment are constantly moving.

While AMRs are sometimes perceived as more expensive upfront, they can be more cost-effective over time due to faster deployment, reduced infrastructure changes, and greater adaptability.

The main difference between AGVs and AMRs is navigation.

• AGVs are guided - they follow physical or predefined paths
• AMRs are autonomous - they plan and adjust routes on their own

Both can operate without human intervention once they are programmed. The difference is in how much flexibility your operation needs. If your layout is stable and predictable, an AGV may be the right choice. If your environment changes frequently or space is limited, an AMR may offer better long-term value.

Whether AGV or AMR, the hardware is only part of the system. Software plays a critical role in performance, safety, and scalability.

Both AGVs and AMRs rely on:

• Control systems and onboard computing
• Safety systems and sensors
• Fleet management software
• User interfaces for configuration and monitoring

We focus on how these robots integrate into the broader automation environments, including material handling, production equipment, and manufacturing workflows. The right robot can deliver value when it’s properly integrated into the operation.

AGVs and AMRs both deliver strong ROI when applied correctly. The key is understanding how they fit into your operation today and how they’ll support growth in the future.

At SK Robotics, we work closely with customers to evaluate layout, material flow, safety requirements, and scalability before recommending a solution. Whether it’s AGV, AMR, or a combination of both, our focus is on delivering mobile automation that works reliably on the plant floor.