The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 various brand names in North America, with over 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the business comprise brand names like Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity. Like for instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift 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 particular feature is offered as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that provide rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to vastly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.