Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brand names in North America, with more than 100 different units available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the business comprise brand names such as Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 particular feature is provided as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that offer rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated 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 too.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is provided on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically 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.