Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names in North America, with more than 100 different models available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the business include brand names like Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable 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.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all provide very rigid and durable framed equipment operating 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 units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift can improve placement dexterity. A standard feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on the majority of 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.