Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands in North America, with over 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players in the industry include names like Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou 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 feature is offered as an alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all provide very durable and rigid framed machinery operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift can vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is found on the majority of available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.