A stock picker or order picker machinery is really like a regular 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 lift trucks currently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are operated by electricity. These type of machinery are mainly used in a warehouse environment. Usually they are used for moving pallets and completing specific jobs in the stocking and shelving department.
The operator of an order picker utilizes controls to control the unit from a platform setting which usually sits fairly close to the ground. The operator can 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 forks could be raised to the required level which makes it convenient for the operator. For instance, if the materials needed, are situated on a shelf that the operator could not 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.
After 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 the majority of models, it is possible to move the order picker while the platform is raised, however, some companies might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker is also able to place pallets on a shelf. Stackers and forklifts may be utilized to complete these particular jobs at some companies instead.