Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brands in North America, with over 100 various models available all over the world. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players in the industry include names such as Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. For instance, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA use 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 particular feature is offered as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which provide rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature which is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically 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.