An ITA Class II forklift where the operator rides in a platform that elevates with the forks for case-level picking.
Detailed Definition
An order picker is an electric, narrow-aisle truck in which the operator stands on a platform that rises with the forks, so the operator can reach stock on upper rack levels and pick cases or individual items onto a pallet or cart. The Industrial Truck Association's Class II covers electric motor narrow aisle trucks, which include order pickers along with reach trucks and turret trucks. As powered industrial trucks, order pickers fall under the operator training rules of OSHA 29 CFR 1910, section 1910.178.
How order pickers differ from forklifts
A standard forklift keeps the operator at floor level and moves full pallets. An order picker lifts the operator with the load, which suits case or each picking from rack locations above reach. The forks usually carry a pallet or picking platform that the operator fills by hand. Order pickers often work in narrow aisles, sometimes guided by rails or a wire in the floor, and are built mainly for picking rather than high-volume full pallet putaway.
Safety points specific to elevated picking
- Operators work at height, so fall protection, typically a harness and lanyard attached to the truck's anchor point, is standard practice; follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Pallets on the forks must be sound and secured as the manufacturer requires, since the operator stands beside them at height.
- Operators need training and evaluation on this specific truck type.
- Rack layout, aisle width and floor flatness must suit the truck, especially in guided very narrow aisles.
Where order pickers fit in a picking layout
Order pickers suit operations with many SKUs stored in rack, where each order needs only a few cases from each location. Fast-moving items are often slotted at lower levels so picks are quicker, with slower items placed higher. When most orders need full pallets, a reach truck or counterbalanced forklift is usually the better tool.
Related Glossary Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an order picker treated as a forklift for OSHA training?
Yes. OSHA treats order pickers as powered industrial trucks under 29 CFR 1910.178, the same standard that covers forklifts and electric pallet jacks. Employers must train operators, evaluate their performance on the type of truck they will use, and certify that this was done. Training on a sit-down counterbalanced forklift does not by itself qualify someone to run an order picker.
What pallets work best on an order picker?
Use pallets in good condition with solid top decks, because the operator stands next to the load at height and builds it by hand. The pallet must fit the forks and any retaining device the truck maker requires. Broken boards, protruding nails or a pallet too large for the platform create hazards for the operator. Check the truck manual for its load and pallet requirements before choosing pallets.