Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands within North America, with over 100 various units available worldwide. 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 market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players within the business consist of names such as Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which offer rigid framed machinery which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is offered on most lift trucks available. 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 both sides of the center of the mast.