A stock picker or order picker equipment is very like a typical forklift. It has hydraulic blades 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 offer. Usually, order pickers are powered by electricity. These type of equipment are mainly utilized in a warehouse setting. Most often they are used for moving pallets and finishing certain tasks in the stocking and shelving department.
The operator of an order picker uses controls to control the unit from a platform setting that usually sits quite close to the ground. The operator is able to direct the machinery 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 which makes it really convenient for the operator. For example, if the needed materials, are situated on a shelf which the operator cannot reach, then entire platform is capable of being raised up to certain level. Due to the counterweight situated 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, although, some businesses may have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker can also place pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers could be utilized to finish these particular tasks at several companies instead.