The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brand names within North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business consist of brand names like Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable the operator to square up the frame of the truck when it is sitting on uneven terrain in order for lifts to be made more safely. This feature is provided as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide rigid framed machinery which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could improve placement dexterity. A standard feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.