Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names in North America, with over 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brands sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the business consist of names like Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, 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 fame. For example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Tovel and Manitou use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that 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 alternative by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is another telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that offer rigid framed machines which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the fantastic maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift can greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is provided on the majority of lift trucks available. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few 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.