The key words in this problem are bulk granular material (free-flowing solids like grain, sand, ore, pellets) and long horizontal distance with continuous flow. Material-handling equipment is chosen by matching the load type and the movement pattern, and for continuous bulk transport the belt conveyor system is the optimal choice.

A belt conveyor carries material on an endless moving belt supported by idler rollers, driven by a motorised pulley. It suits this duty because it offers:

• Continuous, high-volume flow rather than one load at a time.
• Low energy cost per tonne and low labour, since it runs automatically once loaded.
• Excellent handling of loose granular and powdery solids over long, mostly horizontal or gently inclined runs.

The alternatives are mismatched to the duty:

• Forklift and pallet truck move discrete unit loads (boxes, pallets) intermittently over short distances; they cannot carry loose granular bulk efficiently.
• An overhead crane is designed for lifting and positioning heavy discrete loads within a limited bay, not for continuous horizontal bulk conveyance.

Therefore the most suitable equipment is the belt conveyor system.