Searching for the right conveyor system can feel overwhelming. With so many types, configurations, and specifications, it’s easy to get stuck with questions like, What kind do I actually need? or Will this work with my space and products?

You’re not alone. These are the exact questions we hear every day from business owners looking to make their workflow more efficient. This guide cuts through the confusion by answering the seven most frequently asked questions about buying conveyors, helping you make an informed decision that boosts your efficiency and bottom line.

1. What's the main difference between gravity and powered conveyor systems?

This is the most fundamental question, and the answer dictates your entire system's design and cost.

• Gravity Conveyor: These systems use rollers or wheels and rely on a decline or manual push to move items. They are ideal for inexpensive, flexible sorting, loading docks, or accumulation areas. Think of them as a downward-sloping path for boxes or totes.
• Powered Conveyor: These systems use motors to drive rollers or a belt, providing positive movement and control. They are essential for moving items uphill, over long distances, or for precise timing and positioning in assembly and sorting operations.

The Simple Choice: If your path is flat or has an incline, you need powered conveyor. If it's downhill and low control is acceptable, just gravity conveyor may suffice.

2. How do I choose between roller conveyor and belt conveyor?

The choice depends entirely on what you're moving. Choose roller conveyor for...

• Items with a firm, flat bottom such as pallets, boxes, and totes
• Scenarios where you need accumulation capabilities
• Heavier loads
• Powered Roller (also known as Live Roller) Conveyor is used for the heaviest loads and positive drive

Choose belt conveyor for...

• Items with irregular bottoms such as bags, pouches, or assorted product
• Small, loose items and parts
• Moving product up and down inclines
• Applications requiring a stable, continuous surface

3. My facility has limited space, What are my options?

Space constraints are comon. Fortunately, there are styles of conveyor designed to accomodate these needs:

• Narrow Widths: Conveyor can be configured for narrow width applications (as small as 3 inches for the smallest production lines) to fit tight spaces.
• Expandable Conveyor: Portable and expandable roller conveyors are perfect for loading docks or temporary lines that need to be adjusted frequently.
• Use Your Vertical Space: If your floor space is maxed out, Inclined Belt and Spiral Conveyors are the best way to move products between mezzanines or floors.

4. What about weight capacity? How do I make sure it can handle my products?

• Calculate Your Heaviest Load: Don't base your choice on an average load. Plan for the single heaviest item that will be on the conveyor at any time.
• Factor In Load Distribution: A long, heavy pallet distributes weight better than a small, heavy machine sitting on one point. For concentrated loads, you may need a conveyor with a higher capacity.
• When In Doubt, Over-Specify: It’s always safer and more durable to choose a system rated for more weight than you think you’ll need.

5. Is Used Conveyor Equipment reliable?

Absolutely, if you source it from the right supplier. High-quality used conveyor systems from brands like Hytrol or Interroyal are industrial-grade equipment built to last for decades.

• The Key Is Inspection: At American Surplus, every used conveyor is professionally inspected, tested, and often reconditioned. We ensure motors, drives, and frames are in excellent working condition.
• Massive Cost Savings: The primary benefit is cost. You can often acquire a robust used system for 30-50% less than the price of new equipment, with the same reliability.

6. Can I mix and match different types of conveyor?

Yes! In fact, most effective material handling systems are a combination of conveyor types. A typical workflow might include gravity roller conveyor for declines, powered belt for inclines, powered accumulation at packing stations, and gravity skatewheel at sorting stations.

7. What about installation and ongoing maintenance?

Many standard conveyor sections are designed to be modular and can be assembled by your in-house maintenance team with basic tools. For a complex, larger-scale installation, we recommend and can help arrange professional installation with our nationwide installation network.

Keeping your conveyor system running smoothly involves regular cleaning to prevent debris buildup, periodic lubrication of chains and bearings, and visual inspection for and replacement of worn rollers and belting.

Breaking It Down

Choosing the right conveyor doesn't have to be a guessing game. By understanding your products, workflow, and space, you can select a system that streamlines your operation for years to come. The best solution is often a cost-effective, high-quality used conveyor that meets your specific needs without the premium price of new equipment.

Still have questions? Our team at American Surplus has decades of experiencing matching businesses with the perfect conveyor solutions for their unique application. Connect with us today at (800) 876-3736 to get started with a free conveyor consultation. Let us help you design a system that gets your business moving!