The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brands in North America, with over 100 different units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the industry comprise brand names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou utilize 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 feature is provided as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide rigid framed equipment that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could improve placement dexterity. A standard feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.