The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 various brands within North America, with over 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players within the industry consist of names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that 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 conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can improve placement dexterity. A typical feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows 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.