Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 different lift truck brand names in North America, with over 100 various units available all over the world. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 various brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players in the industry comprise names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for example, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA 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 feature is provided as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers which provide rigid framed equipment which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-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 side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature which is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.