The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brands within North America, with over 100 different models available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the industry consist of brand names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Sellick, Manitou, Omega Lift and Ingersoll Rand.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 feature is provided as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer very durable and rigid framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.