The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. For example, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with over 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the industry comprise names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Manitou and Sellick.
By borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 provided as an option 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 provide extremely durable and rigid framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can vastly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is offered on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. One more option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.