An order picker or stock picker equipment is really similar to a standard forklift. It has hydraulic tines able to raise a pallet. Order pickers can also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks currently do not offer. Usually, order pickers are operated by electricity. These machines are mostly used in a warehouse environment. Usually they are utilized for transporting pallets and finishing particular tasks in the shelving and stocking department.
The operator of an order picker utilizes controls to control the unit from a platform setting that usually sits quite close to the ground. The operator can direct the machine to go forward, backward or steer it from side to side. Once the operator has positioned the unit in place the blades could be raised to the required level that makes it really convenient for the operator. For example, if the required materials, are located on a shelf that the operator cannot reach, then entire 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.
The platform is then lowered back to its original position after the order has been picked. The order picker is then driven or directed to its next location. With the majority of models, it is possible to move the order picker whilst the platform is raised, however, some companies might have policies and procedures in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker is also able to put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers can be utilized to finish these specific jobs at several companies instead.