A stock picker or order picker machine is very 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 forklifts presently do not offer. Normally, order pickers are powered by electricity. These machinery are mainly used in a warehouse environment. Usually they are used for moving pallets and finishing specific 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 machinery backwards, forwards or steer it from side to side. As soon as the operator has positioned the unit in place the forks can be raised to the required level that makes it convenient for the operator. Like for instance, if the needed materials, are located on a shelf which the operator could not reach, then entire platform could be raised up to certain level. Due to the counterweight situated 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 most models, it is possible to move the order picker whilst the platform is raised, although, several businesses may have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers in the name of safety. An order picker can also place pallets on a shelf. Forklifts and stackers can be used to finish these specific tasks at several companies instead.