Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands within North America, with more than 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the industry comprise names such as Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable 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 Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that offer rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.