The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast 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 different models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players within the business include names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Sellick, Manitou, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel utilize 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 offered as an option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which provide rigid framed equipment which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on most lift trucks available. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.