A stock picker or order picker machine is really similar to a typical forklift. It has hydraulic blades able to pick up a pallet. Order pickers could also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that forklifts currently do not provide. Typically, order pickers are operated by electricity. These machines are mostly used in a warehouse setting. Most often they are utilized for transporting pallets and completing particular jobs in the shelving and stocking department.
The operator of an order picker uses controls to control the unit from a platform setting that usually sits quite near the ground. The operator is able to 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 blades could be raised to the required level that makes it really convenient for the operator. Like for example, if the materials needed, are located on a shelf that the operator could not reach, then entire platform can be lifted 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, however, some companies 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 may be utilized to finish these particular tasks at some companies instead.