The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 various brand names within North America, with over 100 different models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the key players in the industry include names such as Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou 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 particular feature is offered as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all offer extremely durable and rigid framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck units. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift can greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.