Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands in North America, with over 100 various units available worldwide. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players in the business consist of names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. 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 feature is provided as an option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all offer extremely durable and rigid framed machinery operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift could greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.