The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business consist of names like JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow 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 feature is offered as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
One more telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer very rigid and durable framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift can enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is found on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically 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.