The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 different brands in North America, with over 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players in the business consist of brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Manitou, Sellick, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity. Like for example, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use 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 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. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers that provide rigid framed equipment 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 units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature now. This is offered on the majority of available lift trucks. It enables 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 both sides of the center of the mast.