What class of forklift is an order picker?
An order picker is classified as a Class 2 forklift under CSA and ANSI classifications — specifically an Electric Motor Narrow Aisle Truck. Class 2 also includes reach trucks. Order pickers are distinct because the operator platform lifts with the load, allowing case picking at elevated heights (typically 20–30+ feet). Class 2 certification is separate from Class 1 (sit-down counterbalanced), Class 3 (walkie stackers), and Class 7 (rough terrain forklifts).
What is an order picker?
An order picker is a specialized electric warehouse forklift where the operator platform lifts along with the load, allowing the operator to travel vertically to individual cases or items in tall storage racks. It's used for case-level or item-level picking in e-commerce fulfillment, pharmaceutical distribution, wholesale warehouses, and any facility with vertical storage above 15 feet. Also called: order picker forklift, stock picker, man-up forklift, high-level order picker.
Do you need a licence to operate an order picker in BC?
Yes. Under BC OHS Regulation Part 16 (Mobile Equipment), employers must ensure any worker operating a Class 2 order picker has documented training and demonstrated competency. WorkSafeBC enforces this through workplace inspections. Because order pickers involve elevated operation, Part 11 (Fall Protection) requirements also apply — our course covers both. Non-compliant employers face fines and potential stop-work orders.
How much does order picker training cost?
Gama Safety Canada's on-campus Order Picker (Class 2) training is $134.95 CAD. This includes classroom instruction, hands-on practical evaluation on a real order picker, integrated fall protection instruction, digital certificate, wall certificate, and a physical wallet card mailed to your address at no extra cost. Group discounts available for 3 or more workers from the same company.
How long is the order picker course?
The full order picker training course runs approximately half a day (4 hours) at our Burnaby campus. This includes classroom theory, machine familiarization, integrated fall protection instruction, and hands-on practical evaluation on a real Class 2 order picker. You'll receive your OHS-compliant certificate the same day you complete the course.
Is it hard to pass an order picker test?
No. Most first-time students pass on their first attempt. Our instructors walk you through the machine controls, teach the theory, cover the elevated safety component, and give you hands-on practice time before the evaluation. If you don't pass on the first try, you can retake the practical portion at no additional cost within the same session.
Do I need fall protection training separately for order picker work?
Order picker operators must wear a full-body harness anchored to the machine while elevated. Our order picker course integrates basic fall protection awareness specific to Class 2 operations. However, some employers require a full standalone Fall Protection certification for elevated warehouse work. If your employer requires this, we also offer our full on-campus
Fall Protection course. Bundle discounts available.
Does order picker certification expire?
Yes. Class 2 order picker certification is valid for 3 years from the date of issue, in line with WorkSafeBC and CSA B335 recertification standards. We send renewal reminders by email 60 days before expiry so you stay compliant and eligible for warehouse work without interruption.
Do I need prior forklift experience to take this course?
No prior forklift experience is required. Our order picker course is designed for first-time operators as well as experienced warehouse workers adding Class 2 to their tickets. We teach machine familiarization, the elevated safety component, and provide hands-on practice before the practical evaluation.
Is my order picker certification recognized by Amazon, Costco, and other big employers?
Yes. Our Class 2 order picker certification is CSA B335 and WorkSafeBC-compliant, meeting the operator training requirements of major Canadian employers including Amazon fulfillment centres, Costco, Loblaws, Walmart, Canadian Tire, and BC distribution centres. Certificate number is included on all documents for employer verification.
Do you offer training for other warehouse forklifts?
Yes. In addition to Order Picker training, we offer certification for Walk Behind Stacker (Class 3), Stand Up Reach (Class 2), Power Walkie (walkie pallet), and Counterbalance Forklift (SDCB, Class 1) at our Burnaby campus. Bundle discounts available for multiple certifications. Contact us for details.
Do you offer group or corporate order picker training?
Yes. We offer significantly discounted rates for distribution centres and warehouses training 3 or more operators, plus on-site training at your BC facility if you have equipment available. Ideal for e-commerce fulfillment operations, pharmaceutical distributors, and wholesale warehouses. Call +1 866-661-9803 or email hello@gamasafety.ca for corporate quotes and invoicing.
Where is the Burnaby campus?
Our campus is at 2544 Douglas Rd, Burnaby, BC V5C 5B4. Free on-site parking is available. Metrotown SkyTrain station is a 10-minute walk. Central to Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, Coquitlam, and the entire Lower Mainland warehouse and distribution workforce.
