Order picker is the first step in the warehouse order fulfillment process, which is the process of taking the correct goods out of the warehouse. This process requires the use of electric picking vehicles to assist operators in various positions in the warehouse, including high positions to pick single items. The handling machine has a standard gantry setting and a sturdy and flexible design.
The order pickers can help operators easily reach the highest shelf to pick the goods. The explosion-proof design with a hydraulic system can improve the safety of descent, and the maintenance-free battery can also reduce more maintenance procedures. The electric order picker has a maximum load of 200kg, a maximum lifting of 3620mm, and a small turning radius of 1260mm, so it can be easily and flexibly operated in the narrow aisles of the warehouse, reducing the impact on the shelves when picking.
Overview of Order Pickers
Order pickers are designed to assist warehouse employees in the picking process by allowing them to reach the items on higher shelves. Unlike traditional forklifts, order pickers allow the operator to stand on a platform that elevates them to the required height, making it easier to pick individual items from shelves. These machines increase efficiency in order fulfillment and inventory management by reducing the time spent walking between items and shelves.
How Order Pickers Work
Order pickers operate by lifting the operator to various shelf heights using an electric-powered mast. Once the operator reaches the correct shelf level, they can manually pick items and place them in the storage basket or cart attached to the machine. These machines are often equipped with safety features such as automatic lowering when an operator is at a high height, as well as stability controls to prevent tipping during operation. Order pickers can be used in combination with warehouse management systems (WMS) to optimize picking routes and streamline the picking process.
Applications and Industries
Order pickers are widely used in industries that require fast and accurate order picking, such as retail, e-commerce, and distribution centers. These machines excel in environments where high shelves are used, and operators need to pick and pack items efficiently. In e-commerce warehouses, order pickers are often used to fulfill customer orders quickly, helping reduce the time it takes to pick and prepare orders for shipping. Their use is also common in manufacturing facilities where parts and materials need to be gathered from high shelves during production.
Future Developments and Trends
Order pickers are evolving with the integration of more advanced technologies, such as voice picking and augmented reality (AR). These innovations help guide operators to the correct items and optimize the order-picking process. Furthermore, the future of order pickers will include autonomous or semi-autonomous systems that further increase productivity by reducing the need for manual labor, especially in high-volume warehouses. Enhanced safety features and improvements in energy efficiency will also be key areas of development as order pickers become more intelligent and integrated with warehouse operations.
