Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brand names in North America, with more than 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the business comprise brand names like Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Manitou and Tovel utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable 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 offered as an alternative 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 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 conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift could greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.