The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brand names within North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business comprise names such as JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity. Like for instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize 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 offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed machines that 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 conventional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.