5 Things to Consider Before Buying Roller Conveyors

1. What needs to be transported, and how heavy is it?

Select a roller conveyor based on load per meter

One of the most common questions we get is how much weight a roller conveyor can handle. It depends on:

Be sure to calculate the total weight per meter, not just individual packages.

Can it handle palletized cargo? What about EUR pallets?

Most roller conveyors are designed for EUR pallets (1200x800 mm), but you should always check:

• Rolling distance: The pallet must remain supported at all times while on the roller conveyor.
• Roller conveyor width: Choose the correct width to ensure the roller conveyor is not too narrow.
• Stability and size of the cargo: unevenly loaded pallets can cause stoppages.

2. How fast should the cargo move?

The right speed saves time and money

When speed is a key factor in a logistics process, it’s good to know that Belt conveyors Conveyor belts are generally faster than roller conveyors. If the goal is to move goods quickly over longer distances—for example, between different sections of a warehouse—conveyor belts are often the better option.

Important to keep in mind: However, belt conveyors are rarely used for palletized goods, as pallets require higher point loads and greater stability than belts can typically provide.

When are roller conveyors a better option?

Roller conveyors are particularly well-suited for heavy, stable goods, such as pallets or other units with a flat bottom. They are designed to handle heavier loads than Belt conveyors and are often used in applications where the load is even, heavy, and uniform.

To function effectively, roller conveyors require that the goods have a flat bottom. Otherwise, smaller or irregularly shaped items may get stuck between the rollers or fall through.

Belt conveyors, on the other hand, are more flexible in terms of shape and size. They can transport everything from small boxes to bulky and irregularly shaped objects—even loose material! For example, a belt conveyor can easily move a small pile of sand, something that wouldn’t work on a roller conveyor.

Typical speeds for roller conveyors and Belt conveyors

This means that if speed is a priority—for example, in automated sorting systems—you should consider Belt conveyors or a combination with roller conveyors where appropriate.

3. Should the roller conveyor be powered or non-powered?

Unmanned inclined roller conveyors. Photo: Relevator

Advantages and disadvantages of manual systems

Non-powered roller conveyors are more affordable, require no electricity, and are easy to install. They are well-suited for smaller volumes and shorter distances.

When is it worth investing in a managed solution?

Powered roller conveyors handle heavier cargo and cover longer distances, so they almost always save time in larger facilities. For palletized cargo, they are almost always the preferred choice.

4. Does the roller conveyor need to be integrated with other warehouse automation systems?

Roller conveyors + conveyor systems = efficient flow

In many projects, roller conveyors are combined with conveyor belts, Vertical Lift Modules, or sorting systems. It is important to keep in mind that:

• Elevation levels between units
• Control
• Flexibility for future changes

5. What is most important: price, performance, or durability?

Should I buy new or used?

Buying a used roller conveyor is a really smart choice. They’re often just as good as new ones, but at a much lower price and with faster delivery.

How Relevator's used roller conveyors work

The used roller conveyors in our product range are always inspected and tested to meet high quality standards. Every roller conveyor we sell is:

• Tested to ensure proper functioning
• Inspected individually, including all rolls
• Belt drive inspected; all drive belts checked
• Specification-compliant, clearly documented speed, capacity, and maximum load

This means that every roller conveyor we sell delivers performance that meets the demands of modern logistics and production environments.

Powered telescopic roller conveyor. Photo: Relevator

Frequently Asked Questions About Roller Conveyors

Do roller conveyors require electricity?

Only powered roller conveyors require electricity; manual ones operate without it. Powered roller conveyors can be powered by both standard voltage and 230 V, as well as 3-phase (400 V), depending on the power required by the drive unit.

Is it possible to expand the system later?

Yes, most systems are modular and can be upgraded later. In particular, you can adjust the length and leg height if needed. Changing the width, however, requires a new frame, new rollers, and new leg supports.

What width should I choose?

There is no standard width for a roller conveyor; it depends entirely on the dimensions of the pallet and the cargo. Standard dimensions apply only to EUR pallets, which must be at least 800 mm wide.

Here's how Relevator helps you choose the right roller conveyor

Relevator supports you every step of the way, from needs analysis to installation. We have extensive experience in optimizing logistics solutions using used roller conveyors. We know which questions are important to ask and which pitfalls to avoid.

Would you like help choosing the right roller conveyor?

Call us directly at +46 10 183 98 24, or fill out the form below.
Check out our current selection of roller conveyors for sale here