A stock picker or order picker equipment is really similar to a regular forklift. It has hydraulic forks able to raise a pallet. Order pickers can also lift the operator up to high places, which is a feature that forklifts currently do not provide. Normally, order pickers are operated by electricity. These type of machines are mostly used in a warehouse setting. Usually they are used for moving pallets and finishing certain tasks 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 machine forward, backward or steer it from side to side. When the operator has positioned the unit in place the blades could be raised to the required level that makes it convenient for the operator. For instance, if the materials needed, are located on a shelf which the operator could not 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.
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 while the platform is raised, however, some companies might have procedures and policies in place preventing such maneuvers for safety reasons. An order picker is also able to place pallets on a shelf. Stackers and forklifts can be used to complete these particular jobs at some companies instead.