Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names in North America, with more than 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the industry include brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel 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 option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which provide rigid framed machines that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can improve placement dexterity. A standard feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.