The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. For example, there are at least 19 various brands within North America, with more than 100 different models available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the industry comprise brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for instance, Tovel, Manitou, Omega Lift and AUSA utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 provided as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which offer rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift can greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. 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. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.