An order picker or stock picker machinery is very similar to a typical forklift. It has hydraulic tines able to raise a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks presently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These type of machines are mostly utilized in a warehouse setting. Usually they are utilized for moving pallets and doing certain tasks in the stocking and shelving department.
The operator of the oder picker sits up on a platform where they operate the controls. These controls help to direct the equipment backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. Once the operator has positioned the unit in place the blades could be lifted up to the required level that makes it convenient for the operator. Like for example, if the needed materials, are located on a shelf that the operator could not 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.
When 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, however, several companies might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker can also put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers could be utilized to finish these specific jobs at several companies instead.