The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 various brands in North America, with over 100 different units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players within the industry consist of brand names such as Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow 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 particular feature is provided 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 that provide rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift could vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.