Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of overall diminished sales. There are at least 19 different forklift brands in North America, with over 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the industry include brand names like Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that 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 particular feature is provided as an alternative 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 offer rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide 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 too.
The carriage sideshift could greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is provided on the majority of available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several 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.