Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands within North America, with over 100 different units available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the business comprise names such as Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that provide rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift can enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.