The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for example, there are at least 19 different brands within North America, with over 100 different models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the industry comprise brand names like JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for example, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA 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 feature is offered as an option 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 very durable and rigid framed machinery operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift is able to greatly enhance placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.