The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. For example, there are at least 19 different brands within North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players within the industry consist of names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize 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 feature is offered as an alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, 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 offer the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. 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 today. This is offered on the majority of available lift trucks. It enables 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.