Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names in North America, with more than 100 various models available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, 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 industry consist of brand names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, Omega Lift and AUSA 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 option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which offer rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast several 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.