A retail distribution centre does not ship full pallets like a factory. Each store orders dozens to hundreds of SKUs, a few cases each, so most warehouse labour goes into order picking. It is the most labour-intensive and error-prone stage, and the one where an order picker for retail makes the clearest difference: fewer steps, fewer times getting on and off, and a better working posture.
How picking works in retail and wholesale
- Pick-by-store: staff drive along low-level racks, take cases according to a list or scanner and build a pallet for each store.
- High-level piece picking: slow movers and small high-value items sit on upper levels to save space, so the picker has to go up.
- Wholesale orders: trade customers order larger quantities by case or pallet layer, so the picker carries heavier loads.
- E-commerce orders: many retail warehouses also serve online orders, with more order lines but smaller ones.
The picking challenge
Picking productivity depends on three factors: travel between locations, time spent getting on and off the truck, and the bending and lifting posture. In peak season warehouses add shifts and new staff, so the truck needs to be intuitive and quick to learn. Retail goods vary widely in weight: heavy cases of drinks or rice sit next to light bulky items, so stacking order and pallet height during picking affect both safety and speed.
STILL order picker models for the sector
STILL OPX 20 – 25: the core low-level picker
STILL names retail as one of the applications of the STILL OPX 20 – 25. It carries up to 2,500 kg and travels at up to 14 km/h between pick locations. The STILL Easy Drive steering wheel lets the driver steer, lift and travel without changing grip; walk-along mode means picking without getting on and off. The optional elevating operator platform raises the picker to a picking height of 2.80 m for the first rack level. Li-Ion versions can be charged during breaks.
STILL OPX-L 12: when the pallet should rise to working height
The STILL OPX-L 12 has a mast that lifts picked goods totalling up to 1,200 kg to a maximum working height of 786 mm. The truck raises and lowers the pallet according to the load, so the picker always places cases at a comfortable height instead of bending to the floor – important for heavy drinks and canned food. Its compact size suits narrow aisles.
STILL OPX iGo neo: the truck that follows the picker
The STILL OPX iGo neo recognises the operator and follows on its own, avoiding obstacles or stopping when the path is blocked. STILL states that it eliminates up to 75% of getting on and off and shortens walking distances with goods. It only crosses intersections automatically after the operator approves. It suits store-order picking with many order lines.
STILL EK-X 10: high-level picking
For items stored high up, the STILL EK-X 10 lifts operator and load up to 1,000 kg to 6.3 metres, with tilting side barriers that shorten the distance to the rack. Clear view through the mast supports accurate work. Lithium-ion versions offer opportunity charging, and STILL iGo pilot can connect to the warehouse management system.
Order picker selection by stage
| Stage | Type/model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Low-level picking by store | STILL OPX 20 – 25 | Up to 2,500 kg, walk-along mode |
| Heavy goods, ergonomic posture | STILL OPX-L 12 | Lifts the pallet to a working height of up to 786 mm |
| Many order lines, long travel | STILL OPX iGo neo | Follows the picker, up to 75% fewer get-on/get-off cycles |
| Items on high racks | STILL EK-X 10 | Picking up to 6.3 m, tilting side barriers |
Deployment tips
- Place fast movers near dispatch and at low levels so pickers travel the shortest distance.
- Put heavy goods at the start of the pick route so they end up at the bottom of the pallet.
- Train seasonal staff before the peak season.
- Read the order picker guide: low-level or high-level and see the range in the order pickers category.
Other warehouse stages are covered on solutions for retail & wholesale.
Frequently asked questions
How does an order picker differ from an electric pallet truck?
An order picker is designed for constant getting on and off and taking cases from racks, with a low platform and walk-along mode. An electric pallet truck mainly moves full pallets.
Is the OPX iGo neo worth it for a retail warehouse?
It makes sense where orders have many lines and pickers get on and off constantly. Smaller sites with fewer orders can start with a standard OPX and upgrade later.
When do you need a high-level order picker?
When the warehouse stores individual items on high racks to save space. If all pick faces are at low level, a low-level picker is enough.
Need to calculate the number of order pickers from daily order volume? Send a request on the quote page or call 0902 63 79 70.