Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands in North America, with over 100 different units available all around the world. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the industry include brand names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which enable the operator to square up the frame of the truck when it is sitting on uneven terrain in order for lifts to be made more safely. This feature is offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
One more telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all provide extremely rigid and durable framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is found 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 works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.