The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 various brands in North America, with over 100 various models available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players in the industry comprise names such as Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift utilize 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 offered as an option by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that provide rigid framed machinery which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift could greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. 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. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.