Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brand names in North America, with more than 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players in the business comprise brand names such as JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, 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 alternative 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 that provide rigid framed equipment which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is found on the majority of available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.