The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brand names in North America, with more than 100 different units available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 different brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players in the business consist of brand names such as Tovel, Lift King, JCB, Case, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 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, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that offer rigid framed equipment which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.