tuggers

Tuggers is the plural of tugger, a term used for both people and devices that perform tugging, or pulling, of loads. In everyday language, a tugger can simply be someone who tugs on a rope or line. In industrial and logistics contexts, however, a tugger is a specific type of powered vehicle designed to pull carts or trailers along a fixed route, forming what is commonly called a tugger train.

In manufacturing and warehousing, tuggers are used to move materials efficiently between workstations or through distribution spaces. A typical tugger setup includes a motorized tug vehicle and a line or chain of linked carts or trays. This arrangement reduces manual handling, shortens walking distances, and can improve overall workflow. Variants include electric walk-behind tuggers, rider-operated tuggers, and rail-guided models, each chosen according to factors such as load capacity, travel distance, floor surface, and integration with conveyors or racking systems.

Outside of logistics, the term can occasionally appear in maritime slang where it may informally refer to a tugboat, though the standard term in that field remains tug or tugboat rather than tugger. The use of tugger equipment is common in lean manufacturing and just-in-time environments, where efficient move-through of materials is a priority.

Safety and operation practices for tuggers emphasize proper training for operators, secure attachment and load handling, clear routing, and routine maintenance of batteries and mechanical systems. Load limits and speed controls are typically specified by manufacturers and adjusted to the working environment.

Etymology derives from tug, meaning to pull or yank, with -er forming the agent noun.