The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 various brand names in North America, with more than 100 various units available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players within the business include brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use 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.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which provide rigid framed machines 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 standard lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could improve placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.