The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brands in North America, with over 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business comprise names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, 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 provided as an option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that offer rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift can improve placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.