Forklifts are categorized by their class, which ranges from 1 to 7. Here we will only be focusing on class 1 forklifts, also known as electric counterbalanced trucks. The term counterbalance means that the truck frame gains stability by having weight (usually a conventional battery, thin plate pure lead or a lithium-ion battery) towards the center or rear of the forklift.

Surprisingly, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) have been around since the 1950s. Traditionally these AGVs follow along marked lines on the floor or use lasers or radio waves for navigation. However, current technology allows for workflows to be programmed into robotic lift trucks, allowing for free movement around a warehouse and not requiring expensive warehouse changes when changing the truck's work process.