The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 various brand names within North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players in the business comprise brand names like JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that 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 particular feature is offered as an option by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed machines that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can improve placement dexterity. A standard feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.