Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names within North America, with over 100 various models available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the business comprise names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Manitou, Tovel, AUSA and Omega Lift utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer extremely durable and rigid framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. 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 typical feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is found on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.