1.  Straight Flow Line: The shortest  distance between two given  points  is the straight line.  This  line  provides a guideline for the path  to follow.

2.   Standardization of Methods: The line method  of picking  carrying  and setting  down  of material varies.  This does  not call of  an analysis like micro motion analysis but  calls  for  forming  a basis  for  MH in the minimum  length with  the available  equipment. When  the method is standardized the  time  could  be fixed and wastage in time labor and equipment  could  be eliminated.

3.  Short Irregular Moves : some MH operations  are not  repetitive in  nature. In such cases deployment  of equipment  may be costlier  than  manpower. If  the load  capacity does not  exceed the manpower it is economical  to use  manual labor  for short  and irregular moves.

4.  Propositioning  of Materials : Wherever practicable materials ( viz. Containers after determination  of unit loads) should  be moved on a horizontal plane. When loading and unloading excessive  work can be reduce if  the work layout  is properly planned.

5.   Loading and Unloading : Since  a major  portion  of MH activity  line in  loading  and unloading this  function  must be  given  a great deal of attention. Wherever economical  loading  and unloading  should  be done by mechanical  devices such  as industrial trucks cranes conveyors etc. When this  principle  is followed not  only is  the possibility of loss  and damages reduce but  accident  hazards are also  reduced and  safety  and protection are  increased.

A large number  of pickup  and delivery  points  will increase loading  and unloading  requirements  affecting manpower  and equipment.  Therefore several pickup  points  should  be combined  into  one  central  point. Further by segregating materials  at source or destination will eliminate  double  handling  of materials.