A stock picker or order picker machine is really similar to a standard forklift. It has hydraulic tines able to raise a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that lift trucks presently do not provide. Normally, order pickers are operated by electricity. These equipment are mainly utilized in a warehouse environment. Usually they are used for moving pallets and doing particular jobs in the shelving and stocking department.
The order picker operator sits up on a platform where they operate the controls. These controls help to direct the machinery backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. When the operator has positioned the unit in place the forks could be raised to the required level which makes it convenient for the operator. For instance, if the needed materials, are situated on a shelf that the operator cannot reach, then entire platform is capable of being lifted 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 while the platform is raised, although, several companies may have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker is also able to put pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers may be used to complete these specific jobs at some companies instead.