Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brand names in North America, with more than 100 different models available all over the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players in the business comprise brand names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable 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 particular feature is provided as an alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer extremely rigid and durable framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck units. There are extra 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 now. This is found on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.