Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brands in North America, with over 100 various units available all around the world. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players in the industry comprise brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For example, Omega Lift, AUSA, Manitou and Tovel utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel 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 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 enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is found on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.