Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brands in North America, with more than 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players in the business consist of brand names such as Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA 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 feature is provided as an alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.