The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brands within North America, with over 100 different models available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business comprise names like JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which allow 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 particular feature is provided as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all provide very durable and rigid framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.