When importing autonomous forklifts from China, the final Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is the key step to confirm that the system performs correctly in the customer's actual warehouse environment.

A successful SAT ensures that the equipment, software and operational performance meet the agreed project requirements.

What Is the Difference Between FAT and SAT?

Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) is completed at the Chinese manufacturing facility before shipment.

Site Acceptance Test (SAT) is completed after installation at the customer's warehouse.

Why Is SAT Important for Imported AGVs?

• Verify real warehouse performance

• Confirm software integration

• Test actual transportation workflows

• Reduce deployment risks

What Should Be Included in an AGV SAT Checklist?

• Vehicle quantity and model verification

• Navigation accuracy testing

• Load handling verification

• Safety function testing

• Software communication testing

• Cycle time measurement

How Should Cycle Time Be Verified?

Cycle time testing should use real warehouse tasks instead of laboratory conditions.

• Pallet pickup time

• Transportation distance

• Drop-off accuracy

• Return route efficiency

What Happens If AGVs Fail to Meet Performance Requirements?

If the system does not achieve agreed performance targets, suppliers normally optimize software settings, adjust workflows or continue commissioning until requirements are achieved.

Can Final Payment Be Linked to SAT Approval?

Many international AGV projects include a final payment milestone after successful site acceptance testing.

• Confirm supplier responsibility

• Ensure complete commissioning

• Reduce project risks

Industry Perspective

From practical automation projects, the biggest challenge is often not manufacturing the AGV, but clearly defining what successful delivery means.

Professional AGV projects should define measurable targets including throughput, cycle time, positioning accuracy, availability and safety performance.

For global warehouse automation, suppliers with strong FAT, SAT and commissioning processes will have a significant advantage because customers need reliable long-term operation, not only equipment delivery.