Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brands in North America, with over 100 various models available all over the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the business comprise names like Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow the operator to square up the truck's frame 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. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows 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.