External mobility systems for heavy machinery and equipment

A system comprising:

• a first module;
• a second module coupled to the first module;
• a third module coupled to the first module and the second module;
• a set of guide rails coupled to the third module;
• an air bearing system disposed under the third module, the air bearing system configured to apply an upward force on the third module;
• and
• an air supply coupled to the air bearing system;
• wherein the upward force on the third module reduces a static friction of the third module with respect to a floor surface by at least 90%, such that the third module can slide from a default position to an expanded position, and wherein the third module is configured to slide along the set of guide rails after the upward force is applied to the third module.

A method comprising:

• disconnecting a first module of an item sortation system from a second module of the item sortation system;
• applying an upward force to the first module using one or more air bearing systems;
• and
• sliding the first module away from the second module using an autonomous vehicle while the upward force is applied.