Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brand names within North America, with over 100 different 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 marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players in the industry comprise brand names such as JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable 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 feature is offered as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that offer rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift could greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically several 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.