The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. For instance, there are at least 19 different brands within North America, with over 100 various units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players within the industry comprise brand names such as JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for example, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that 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 Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide rigid framed equipment which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can improve placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on most lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically 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.