An order picker or stock picker equipment is very similar to a standard forklift. It has hydraulic blades able to raise a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that forklifts currently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These type of machinery are mostly used in a warehouse setting. Usually they are utilized for transporting pallets and completing certain tasks in the stocking and shelving department.
The order picker operator utilizes controls to control the unit from a platform setting which normally sits quite close to the ground. The operator is able to direct the machine to go backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. As soon as the operator has positioned the unit in place the tines can be lifted up to the required level that makes it really convenient for the operator. For instance, if the materials required, are located on a shelf which the operator cannot reach, then entire platform is capable of being raised up to certain level. Due to the counterweight located at the other end, the unit remains balanced, even at higher levels.
The platform is lowered back to its original position after the order has been picked. The order picker is then directed or driven to its next location. With the majority of models, it is possible to move the order picker while the platform is raised, however, several companies might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker is also able to put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers could be utilized to complete these specific tasks at several companies instead.