An order picker or stock picker equipment is really similar to a regular forklift. It has hydraulic tines able to pick up a pallet. Order pickers can also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks currently do not offer. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These type of machines are mostly utilized in a warehouse setting. Most often they are used for moving pallets and completing certain tasks in the shelving and stocking department.
The order picker operator uses controls to control the unit from a platform setting that normally sits fairly near the ground. The operator is able to direct the machinery to go backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. As soon as the operator has positioned the unit in place the forks could be lifted up to the required level which makes it really convenient for the operator. For example, if the needed materials, are located on a shelf that the operator cannot reach, then whole platform can be lifted up to certain level. Due to the counterweight located at the other end, the unit remains balanced, even at higher levels.
After the order has been picked, the platform is lowered back to its original position. Then the order picker could be driven to its next load. With most models, it is possible to move the order picker while the platform is raised, although, some businesses might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker can also place pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers could be utilized to complete these particular tasks at several companies instead.