An order picker or stock picker machinery is really like a regular forklift. It has hydraulic blades able to pick up a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks currently do not offer. Usually, order pickers are powered by electricity. These machinery are mostly utilized in a warehouse setting. Most often they are utilized for transporting pallets and completing 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 machine forward, backward or steer it from side to side. Once the operator has positioned the unit in place the tines can be raised to the required level that makes it convenient for the operator. For example, if the needed materials, are situated on a shelf that the operator cannot reach, then entire platform is capable of being lifted up to certain level. Due to the counterweight situated 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 can be driven to its next load. With most models, it is possible to move the order picker while the platform is raised, however, some companies might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker could also place pallets on a shelf. Stackers and forklifts could be used to complete these specific tasks at several companies instead.