Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have endured in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various lift truck brands in North America, with over 100 various units available worldwide. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being sold under 24 different brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the industry include brand names such as Case, JCB, Lift King, Tovel, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame, lift truck manufacturers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel 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 alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Lift King, Omega Lift, Tovel and Load Lifter all provide extremely durable and rigid framed equipment 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 standard lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could improve placement dexterity. A typical feature which is rather common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several 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.