Material handling design
The BIM Overlay to the RIBA Outline Plan of Work, published by the RIBA in 2012 suggested that material handling design is: ‘An approach to improving logistics and packaging of elements manufactured offsite, in order to make their transportation to the site and the onsite assembly process more efficient. For example, lifting points or positioning aids can be incorporated into components to aid assembly, or more effective use can be made of containerisation.’
DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work, Mainstreaming Design for Manufacture and Assembly in Construction, 2nd Edition, published by the RIBA in 2021, defines material handling design as: ‘The detailed planning of the packaging of components and assemblies manufactured off site and the logistics of getting them to their final destination on site, with the objective of making the process as efficient as possible. It can result in incorporating physical features on the components, assemblies or their packaging, including lifting points or positioning aids to facilitate handling or assembly.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
ECA calls on members to comment on draft 4th edition.
Bringing together expertise and creating cultural benefits.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
















