Which principle of materiel handling obtains the greatest economy in moving materiel?

The principle of materiel handling that obtains the greatest economy in moving materiel is centered on the idea that minimizing handling is the most efficient approach. This principle is based on the understanding that every time material is handled, it incurs costs—whether through labor, transportation, or the potential for damage. The less frequently materiel is moved or handled, the lower the overall costs associated with these operations.

By focusing on the concept that "least handling is the best handling," organizations can streamline their operations, reduce waste, and ultimately save time and resources. This principle encourages designing processes and layouts that work to consolidate movements, thus leading to a more efficient flow of materials throughout the supply chain.

In contrast, other principles might contribute to efficiency but do not focus solely on minimizing the handling aspect. For instance, while advanced planning is important for setting up an effective supply chain, it does not directly reduce the frequency of handling. Similarly, using straight line flow and allowing volume to dictate the method of handling are valuable strategies, but they don't inherently prioritize reducing the number of times material is moved.