Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names in North America, with more than 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players in the business include brand names like JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use 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 particular feature is provided 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 which provide rigid framed machinery that 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 conventional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.