Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brand names within North America, with over 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players within the industry consist of names like Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow 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 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 provide very rigid and durable framed machinery operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.