The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brand names within North America, with over 100 different models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, some of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players within the business comprise brand names like Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. Like for example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable the operator to square up the truck's frame 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.
One more telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer very rigid and durable framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could improve placement dexterity. A standard feature which is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several 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.