Roller Conveyors

Roller conveyors are a reliable and efficient solution for moving goods across warehouses, factories, and distribution centres. Designed to handle a wide range of items (from lightweight packages to heavy pallets) these systems streamline operations and reduce manual handling. Whether you need a simple gravity-fed system or a powered conveyor for high-volume environments, roller conveyors offer flexibility, durability, and long-term performance.

What Is a Roller Conveyor?

A roller conveyor is a material handling system that uses a series of rollers mounted within a frame to transport items from one point to another. Depending on your requirements, rollers can be powered or non-powered (gravity-based), making them suitable for both manual and automated processes.

They are commonly used in logistics, manufacturing, packaging, and e-commerce environments where efficiency and smooth product flow are essential.

Types of Roller Conveyors

Gravity Roller Conveyors

Gravity roller conveyors rely on natural force or manual pushing to move items. They are ideal for lightweight goods or environments where power is not required, offering a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution.

Powered Roller Conveyors

Powered systems use motors to move products automatically along the conveyor line. These are perfect for high-throughput operations, helping to increase productivity and reduce labour requirements.

Key Benefits Of Roller Conveyors

Roller conveyors are widely used because of their practical advantages:

Scalable systems – Easy to expand as your business grows

Improved efficiency – Speeds up the movement of goods across your facility

Reduced manual handling – Minimises strain and improves workplace safety

Customisable design – Can be tailored to fit your space and operational needs

Low maintenance – Simple construction means fewer breakdowns and repairs

Roller Conveyor FAQs

What is the difference between gravity and powered roller conveyors?

Gravity roller conveyors have no motor. Products are pushed by hand or move down a slight incline. Powered roller conveyors use a motor and drive system to move products automatically at a controlled speed.

What can you convey on a roller conveyor?

Any item with a firm, flat base: cartons, totes, crates, trays, drums and pallets. Soft, flexible or irregular items usually need a belt conveyor instead.

What is the difference between lineshaft and chain-driven roller conveyors?

Lineshaft uses a driven shaft and bands, and suits lighter loads. Chain-driven uses chains and sprockets, and handles heavier loads and pallets.

Can roller conveyors go around corners or up inclines?

Yes. Tapered-roller curves handle bends, and inclined or declined sections can be built in, subject to product and load.

Do you design bespoke roller conveyor systems?

Yes. MHEL designs, manufactures and supports systems to specification. See our custom design equipment page.

Need a roller conveyor for a new line or an existing site? Call 01162593175, email hello@mhel.co.uk, or request a quote. We’ll review your product, layout and throughput and recommend the right system.