The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 various brands within North America, with over 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 various brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the industry include brand names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel utilize 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 particular feature is offered as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that offer rigid framed machines 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 traditional 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 typical feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.