Rough-terrain and vertical-mast forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brands within North America, with more than 100 various models available worldwide. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being marketed under 24 different brand names. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the main players within the industry comprise names such as Tovel, Lift King, Case, JCB, Sellick, Manitou, 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 popularity. Like for example, Manitou, Tovel, AUSA and Omega Lift utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that enable the operator to square up the frame of the truck when it is sitting on uneven terrain in order for lifts to be made more safely. This feature is offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Lift King, Omega Lift, Load Lifter and Tovel are makers that provide rigid framed machinery which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These crab-steering and four-wheel coordinated steering modes offer the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering standard lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift could improve placement dexterity. A standard feature which is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is found on the majority of lift trucks available. It enables 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 both sides of the center of the mast.