An order picker or stock picker machine is very like a regular forklift. It has hydraulic blades 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 machinery are mainly utilized in a warehouse setting. Most often they are utilized for moving pallets and finishing particular tasks 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 machine backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. When the operator has positioned the unit in place the tines can be raised to the required level that makes it very convenient for the operator. Like for instance, if the needed materials, are located on a shelf which the operator cannot reach, then entire platform can be 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 could 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 may have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker could also put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers may be used to finish these particular jobs at several companies instead.