The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. For example, there are at least 19 different brands in North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to makers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players in the industry comprise brand names such as JCB, Case, Lift King, Tovel, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's popularity, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou utilize 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 offered as an option by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that offer rigid framed machinery which 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 units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
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 either side of the center of the mast.