The key difference is navigation: an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) follows a fixed physical path such as wires, tape or reflectors, while an AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) uses onboard scanners and sensors to map its surroundings and navigate freely, rerouting around obstacles in real time.
Why does this distinction matter when buying?
An AGV needs its guidance infrastructure installed and updated whenever the route changes. An AMR adapts to a changing layout without that fixed infrastructure, which generally makes it more flexible for facilities where layouts or product runs change over time.
Are they used for the same tasks?
Broadly yes — both move materials around a facility — but an AMR's ability to reroute around obstacles and people makes it better suited to shared spaces with foot traffic or variable layouts.
Do they fall under the same safety standards?
Both AGVs and AMRs are covered by the same industrial standard, ISO 3691-4, which sets safety requirements for driverless industrial trucks generally.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between an AMR and an AGV?
An AGV follows a fixed path (wires, tape or reflectors); an AMR navigates freely using onboard sensors and mapping.
Which is more flexible for a changing layout?
An AMR, since it doesn't depend on fixed floor infrastructure to navigate.
Are AMRs and AGVs covered by the same safety standard?
Yes — both fall under ISO 3691-4, the standard for driverless industrial trucks.