The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have endured even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, several of the brands market both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the key players within the business comprise brand names like JCB, Case, Tovel, Lift King, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing some of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. For instance, Tovel, Manitou, AUSA and Omega Lift use 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 particular feature is offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all offer extremely durable and rigid framed equipment operating on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability that rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on most available lift trucks. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. A different option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.