The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. For instance, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with more than 100 different models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler makers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brands. Understandably, several of the brands market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the key players within the industry consist of brand names like Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing several 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, Tovel and Manitou utilize 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 particular feature is provided as an alternative by Lift King, Swinger and Load Lifter lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Load Lifter and Tovel all provide extremely rigid and durable framed machines operating on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast can enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on most available lift trucks. It enables the operator to move the mast hydraulically a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to either side of the center of the mast.