New regulations, trends and technology for the logistics trade fair

“Anyone who manufactures, imports, places on the market or significantly modifies machinery in Europe must comply with the new requirements of the Machinery Regulation,” says Christian Moschner, Head of Sales at TÜV SÜD Product Service. “Because its area of application has been expanded, economic operators and companies that were not previously affected, such as dealers of used machinery, must also become active in some cases.” Other changes include the structure of the regulation, terms and details as well as technical and legal adjustments. Points such as digitalisation, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, as well as autonomous machines and online operating instructions, are now more in focus. For some machines and risk assessments, the conformity assessment with the Machinery Regulation must now be checked by a Notified Body. This was previously optional.

TÜV SÜD supports companies in preparing for and implementing the Machinery Regulation, which will be binding in the EU from January 2027 and replace the existing Machinery Directive. Those who prepare for the changes at an early stage will not only benefit from legal compliance, but will also improve their competitive position.

Cybersecure transport, storage and distribution processes
“With the increasing digitalisation and networking of transport, warehousing and distribution processes, logistics companies are also increasingly being targeted by hackers,” says Christian Moschner. The integration of new technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence and driverless transport systems harbours additional attack opportunities and therefore risks. This not only jeopardises operational processes, but also sensitive data. “To ensure cybersecurity along the entire supply chain, companies must react flexibly to new threats and attack patterns and continuously adapt and improve their security measures,” continues Christian Moschner.

Manufacturers, integrators and service providers from the logistics sector benefit from independent cybersecurity testing and certification as well as risk assessments by TÜV SÜD. They ensure the highest level of security and enable companies to document this to the outside world. This applies to the entire life cycle, from product development and implementation to the operation of drive systems, conveyor technology, robots and transport systems. Training courses, workshops and comprehensive tests are further focal points for cyber-secure logistics.

Functional, automated and driverless transport
Christian Moschner: “The logistics industry places high demands on safety, but also on the functional safety of automated guided vehicles (AGVs).” Numerous country-specific regulations must be fulfilled during production, distribution, integration and operation. “Safe navigation and collision avoidance can only be guaranteed with reliable data interfaces and precise positioning and guidance systems, especially in environments with people and other machines.”

TÜV SÜD Product Service has many years of experience with AGVs and is represented in all important target markets. In addition to safety and functionality, the tests and certifications also take into account the country-specific local requirements. TÜV SÜD also supports manufacturers in the qualification of their product series and international production sites. This includes working with key suppliers, production audits and the harmonisation of end product requirements, including components and subsystems. In this way, the experts promote fast, safe and efficient market launches of automated guided vehicle systems – worldwide.

About LogiMAT
LogiMAT in Stuttgart is the largest annual logistics trade fair in Europe. It provides information on technologies, products, systems and solutions for distribution and the flow of materials and information – from procurement to the delivery or provision of products and services. The core topics are rationalisation, process optimisation and cost reduction.

Further information on TÜV SÜD services for the logistics industry:
• Product Certification Marks
• Cybersecurity
• Testing of Robots and Robot Controllers