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 different brands within North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the business include names like Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift 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 provided as an alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
One more telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all offer extremely rigid and durable framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on most lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.