The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brands within North America, with over 100 different units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the business include names such as Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou use 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 Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that provide rigid framed machines 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 traditional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift could greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is found on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few 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.