Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brands within North America, with more than 100 different units available all over the world. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players in the industry comprise names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA use 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 feature is offered as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter 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 machinery operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.