Material handling equipment orders grew more than 22% in 2010, and are forecasted to grow 11-12% in 2011/2012, according to the latest Material Handling Equipment Manufacturing (MHEM) Forecast from Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA).

"Industrial production activity is increasing and factory operating rates (utilization) are rapidly improving as demand is shifting from recovery mode to near normal levels," said Hal Vandiver, MHIA executive consultant. "MHEM will benefit from demand for more efficient use of capacity in warehousing, distribution and manufacturing in the near term and expanding residential and non-residential building sectors in late 2012/early 2013."

Material handling equipment shipments grew 6.1% in 2010 and are forecasted to grow 12-13% in 2011/2012. Domestic demand grew 3.6% in 2010, and will likely mirror shipment growth in 2011. Exports will be stronger than imports in 2011.