In the past ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the reputation of motorized mobile machinery. These machines have become the gem of the construction industry and with good reason. These kinds of machines are practical, versatile and very strong. Because several manufacturers and units has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are currently a number of these machinery readily available 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 sight and on operation. There are some other significant distinctions between the two equipment discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different appearance as it is outfitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment can resemble more of a mobile crane rather than a forklift. The boom can retract and extend or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom can also elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is known as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the major benefits of this function is that it enables the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They could accomplish many kinds of tasks that used to take a lot more man-power and time to do.