Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brand names in North America, with over 100 various models available all over the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, some of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players in the business comprise brand names like Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift 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 feature is provided as an option by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel all offer extremely rigid and durable framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide 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 is able to greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.