The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players in the business comprise names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Manitou and Tovel utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which enable 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 provided as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel all offer extremely durable and rigid framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability which 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 could greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.