An MHI-released forecast of materials handling equipment manufacturing (MHEM) projects growth of 8-9% for 2014 and 2015.

"We are optimistic about future outcomes and expect economic fundamentals to favourably support MHEM expansion through 2014 and 2015," says Hal Vandiver, executive consultant for MHI in Charlotte.

Materials handling equipment shipments grew 7.8% in 2013. The forecasts anticipate increases of 4.5-5.0% in 2014 and 9.0-10.0% in 2015. Domestic demand, reflecting shipments plus imports less exports, grew 8.6% in 2013. The forecasts envision growth exceeding 7.0% in 2014 and 10.0% in 2015.

Import growth was down 3.9% in 2013 and 17.9% in 2012. Export growth was flat in 2013, down from 12.4% in 2012. MHEM imports and exports are expected to rebound modestly beginning in mid-2014 and continue to grow in 2015.

Equipment categories in the history and forecast include conveyors and conveying equipment; overhead travelling cranes, hoists and monorail systems; industrial truck, tractor, trailer and stacker machinery; and other materials handling equipment.

MHI, an international trade association, releases a comprehensive quarterly MHEM forecast. The forecast projects 18-24 months forward to anticipate changes in the materials handling and logistics marketplace.