Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brands within North America, with over 100 various units available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players in the industry comprise names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which allow 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 option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide 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 or side-shifting mast could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is found on most lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.