Navigating the Warehouse: Understanding the Differences Between a Reach Truck and an Order Picker

Understanding the variety of warehouse vehicles, like reach trucks and order pickers, is crucial to the productivity and safety of a warehouse environment. Not only do these vehicles differ in their construction and operation, but they also serve unique roles within the inventory management process. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between reach trucks and order pickers, their distinct features and advantages, and how they contribute to the efficient functioning of a warehouse.

What is a Reach Truck?

Reach trucks are specially designed industrial trucks for lifting and carrying loads in a warehouse setting. They are unique in their ability to ‘reach’ up and out to pick up, place, or retrieve pallets or other items stored on high shelves.

Features of Reach Trucks:

• Design: Reach trucks feature a narrow body, perfect for manoeuvring in tight aisles. They are typically equipped with outriggers at the front to maintain balance while lifting heavy loads.
• High Lift Capacity: These trucks can lift loads significantly, often over 10 meters.

Advantages and Benefits

Reach trucks offer numerous benefits, including:

1. Space Efficiency: The slim design of reach trucks allows them to navigate narrow aisles, resulting in better warehouse space utilization.
2. Height Accessibility: With their impressive lift capacity, reach trucks make it possible to use vertical warehouse space effectively, enabling the storage of goods at high elevations.

What is an Order Picker?

On the other hand, an order picker is a warehouse vehicle designed to fulfill individual orders rather than handling bulk goods. It functions as a lifting platform, allowing the operator to pick up and arrange items manually.

Features of Order Pickers:

• Design: Order pickers feature a platform for the operator and a separate racking system for storing goods.
• Lower Lift Capacity: These vehicles are not designed to lift heavy pallets. Instead, they are used for picking individual items at various heights.

Advantages and Benefits

Order pickers provide the following benefits:

1. Order Accuracy: Since the operator is picking items manually, there is a higher chance of maintaining accuracy in order fulfillment.
2. Time Efficiency: By enabling the operator to travel directly to the items, order pickers can significantly reduce the time taken for order fulfilment.

Making Your Choice: Reach Trucks vs Order Pickers

The choice between reach trucks and order pickers comes down to your specific warehouse needs. Reach trucks are best suited for warehouses dealing with large-volume products and making use of vertical space. In contrast, order pickers are ideal for businesses focused on individual order fulfilment, such as e-commerce operations.

Regardless of your choice, reach trucks and order pickers can significantly enhance your warehouse operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and productivity.