Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brands in North America, with over 100 various units available all over the world. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players in the industry comprise brand names such as Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For example, Tovel, Manitou, 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 alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that provide rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows 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 both sides of the center of the mast.