The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brands in North America, with over 100 different units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players within the business comprise names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity. Like for example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that provide rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast 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.