A stock picker or order picker machinery is very like a typical 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 presently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These equipment are mostly utilized in a warehouse setting. Most often they are used for transporting pallets and completing specific jobs in the stocking and shelving department.
The order picker operator uses controls to control the unit from a platform setting which normally sits quite close to the ground. The operator is able to direct the machine to go backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. When the operator has positioned the unit in place the tines 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 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 directed or driven to its next location. With most models, it is possible to move the order picker whilst the platform is raised, however, several businesses may have policies and procedures in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker can also put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers may be used to complete these particular tasks at several companies instead.