A stock picker or order picker machinery is really like a standard forklift. It has hydraulic forks able to raise a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks currently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These type of equipment are mainly utilized in a warehouse environment. Usually they are used for moving pallets and finishing certain jobs in the stocking and shelving department.
The order picker operator sits up on a platform where they operate the controls. These controls help to direct the equipment forward, backward or steer it from side to side. When the operator has positioned the unit in place the blades can be raised to the required level which makes it convenient for the operator. Like for instance, if the materials required, are located on a shelf that 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.
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 whilst the platform is raised, however, several companies may have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker is also able to place pallets on a shelf. Stackers and forklifts may be utilized to complete these particular tasks at several companies instead.