Electric order pickers are designed with several safety features and engineering principles to prevent tipping or instability, especially when handling heavy objects. 
Design of the Frame and Base: Electric order pickers typically have a low center of gravity to enhance stability. The frame and base are designed to be robust and solid, which helps prevent tipping, especially when the lift is elevated. The heavier components, such as the battery or the drive motor, are often placed at the bottom to provide a stable foundation.
Positioning of Heavy Loads: The design of the electric order picker ensures that the heaviest part of the load, typically near the bottom, is closer to the base, minimizing the risk of tipping when lifting objects.
Rated Load Capacity: Electric order pickers are built to handle a specific maximum load capacity. Exceeding this capacity increases the risk of tipping. Operators are trained to understand and respect the load limits to maintain safe operation.
Load Distribution: Evenly distributing the load across the forks or platform ensures better stability. When loads are centered properly and are within the capacity rating, the chances of tipping are minimized. Some order pickers have adjustable forks or platforms that help balance the load.
Tilt Sensors and Load Sensing: Many electric order pickers are equipped with tilt sensors and load sensing systems that monitor the position of the mast and the load. If the machine is becoming too tilted or the load is unevenly distributed, the system may trigger an alarm or automatically reduce lift height to prevent tipping.
Load Limiters: Some electric order pickers include a load limiter, which restricts the maximum lift height or speed based on the weight of the load, further reducing the risk of instability.
Wide Stabilizing Base: The design of the wheels and the overall base can significantly impact the stability of the order picker. A wider base provides a more stable platform, especially when lifting heavier loads.
Low-Profile, Wide Tires: Electric order pickers often have low-profile, wide tires to distribute weight evenly across the surface, which helps with stability on uneven or sloped floors. This reduces the risk of tipping during operation.
Tilt-Back or Vertical Mast Systems: The mast design is critical for maintaining stability during lifting. Electric order pickers with tilt-back or vertical mast systems are less likely to tip when handling loads at height. The design of the mast ensures that the load remains balanced and within the safe limits of the vehicle’s tilt angle.
Lifting Speed Control: Many electric order pickers have controlled lifting speeds that allow for smooth and gradual elevation of loads. Rapid or jerky movements can destabilize the equipment and increase tipping risks. Slow, steady lifting maintains control of the load and helps prevent instability.
Active Stability Control: Some advanced electric order pickers come with active stability control, which continuously adjusts the load and tilt angle during operation. This system dynamically ensures that the machine is within a safe operational range, automatically compensating for slight imbalances that could otherwise lead to tipping.
Traction and Anti-Slip Technology: Electric order pickers equipped with advanced traction control and anti-slip technology can better handle inclines and uneven surfaces without compromising stability. This is especially important when picking or dropping loads in environments where floors may be wet or slippery.