For many 3PL logistics providers, the highest-value service is no longer renting pallet positions but order picking: breaking full pallets into cases and items and packing them for each store or online buyer. This is the most labour-intensive and error-prone step in the warehouse. The right order picker shortens walking distances, reduces getting on and off the truck and keeps pick accuracy high.
How picking in a multi-client warehouse differs
A 3PL warehouse often picks orders for several shippers in parallel, each with its own order profile: distribution orders for dealers usually have many cases per line, e-commerce orders many lines but few items. A new contract can change the order mix within weeks. The picking fleet should therefore be split by pick height (low-level or high-level) rather than by customer, so trucks can move between zones.
The article Order picker guide: low-level or high-level covers the general principles. Below is how to apply them in a service warehouse.
STILL ranges for each picking style
STILL OPX 20–25: low-level case picking
The OPX is a low-level order picker with up to 2.5 tonnes capacity, suited to picking distribution orders onto one or two pallets. The height-adjustable STILL Easy Drive steering wheel with integrated display lets the operator steer, lift and travel without changing grip, at 12 km/h. The optional elevating operator platform raises the cab to a picking height of 2.80 m, so the second rack level can be reached too. Battery capacity is up to 620 Ah; the Li-Ion version allows short intermediate charging in breaks for 24-hour availability.
STILL OPX 20–25 iGo neo: the truck follows the picker
The iGo neo version recognises the operator and follows them along the aisle, including during Z-picking, thanks to hybrid tracking. According to STILL, it eliminates up to 75% of getting on and off the truck and shortens walking distances while carrying goods. It only drives through intersections automatically after the operator has approved, and can be switched to manual control at any time. In 3PL warehouses with many seasonal workers, fewer repetitive movements help newcomers reach productivity faster.
STILL OPX-L 12: ergonomic picking
The OPX-L 12 has a mast that raises picked goods, up to 1,200 kg in total, to a maximum working height of 786 mm, so the picker does not have to bend down when placing cases on the pallet. The truck raises and lowers the pallet according to the load level, which suits orders with many small cases.
STILL EK-X 10: high-level item picking
When high-value, small items are stored in high racking to save space, the EK-X 10 lifts loads of up to 1,000 kg and the picker to a height of 6.3 metres. Tiltable side barriers shorten the distance between picker and rack, so items stored deep can be reached in an ergonomic posture.
Selection table: order pickers by process step
| Process step | Suggested type/model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Case picking for distribution orders | STILL OPX 20–25 | Up to 2.5 t, Easy Drive, 12 km/h |
| Multi-line orders, seasonal workers | STILL OPX 20–25 iGo neo | Follows the picker, up to 75% fewer step-ons |
| Many small cases, ergonomics needed | STILL OPX-L 12 | Raises the pallet to 786 mm by load level |
| High-value goods in high racking | STILL EK-X 10 | Lifts the picker up to 6.3 m |
| Replenishing pick locations | STILL FM-X reach truck | Brings pallets down from storage to pick level |
Tips for organising the picking zone
- Put fast movers at low level: most order lines will then be handled by the OPX, leaving the EK-X for slow movers.
- Integrate software: pick lists from the warehouse management system help optimise routes; see fleet management.
- Seasonality: extra order pickers for peak season can come from our forklift rental service.
See the order pickers category and the overview at solutions for 3PL logistics.
Frequently asked questions
Does the OPX iGo neo require changes to racking or infrastructure?
The truck uses sensors to recognise the operator, surroundings and obstacles. Any layout adjustments should be assessed during a site survey, especially at intersections and busy areas.
When should we use high-level instead of low-level order pickers?
When space is limited and many small, slow-moving SKUs can be stored high. Fast movers should still sit at low level so the OPX can pick them quickly.
Can order pickers run multiple shifts?
The OPX is available with Li-Ion, allowing intermediate charging in breaks for 24-hour availability. The charging plan should follow each zone’s shift schedule.
Get advice and a quote
To configure the STILL OPX 20–25, STILL OPX 20–25 iGo neo or STILL EK-X for your picking zone, send a request via the request a quote page or call our hotline 0902 63 79 70.