Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brands within North America, with over 100 different units available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players in the industry consist of brand names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Manitou, Sellick, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For example, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow 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 another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that offer rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide 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 too.
The carriage sideshift could greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is found on most available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically 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.