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 brand names within North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the business comprise names such as Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, 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 offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
One more telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all provide extremely durable and rigid framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature which is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.