Telehandlers over the last decade, is also referred to as variable reach rough terrain lift truck, has gained great fame in the material handling industry. With good reason, these specific equipment have become the gem of the construction industry. These kinds of machines are useful, versatile and extremely powerful. Since several manufacturers and models has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are now a number of these machinery readily offered on the market.
In technical terms, a telehandler is considered to be an ITA* Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. This description means it is a rough terrain lift truck, but only in name only. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift literally ends on operation and on sight. There are several other major distinctions between the two machinery discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has an entirely different appearance as it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could resemble more of a crane than a forklift. The boom can extend and retract or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to roughly 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom would move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the main advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They are able to accomplish numerous jobs that used to take much more time and man-power to finish.