A stock picker or order picker machine is really similar to a standard forklift. It has hydraulic tines able to pick up a pallet. Order pickers can also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that forklifts currently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are powered by electricity. These machines are mostly utilized in a warehouse environment. Most often they are utilized for moving pallets and completing certain jobs in the shelving and stocking department.
The order picker operator uses controls to control the unit from a platform setting which usually sits quite close to the ground. The operator could direct the equipment to go backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. As soon as the operator has positioned the unit in place the tines can be lifted up to the required level which makes it convenient for the operator. Like for example, if the materials required, are situated 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.
The platform is 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 while the platform is raised, although, some companies might have policies and procedures in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker could also put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers may be utilized to complete these specific tasks at some companies instead.