The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 various brand names in North America, with over 100 various 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, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players within the industry include names such as Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou 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 offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is provided on most available lift trucks. It allows 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 either side of the center of the mast.