Vertical-mast and rough terrain forklift marketers have continued in spite of diminished overall sales. There are at least 19 various forklift brand names within North America, with more than 100 different models available all around the world. In regards to manufacturers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brand names. Understandably, several of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Some of the main players within the industry include names such as Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
Lift Truck marketers have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing several of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. For example, Omega Lift, AUSA, 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 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 which offer rigid framed machinery which operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the incredible maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering traditional lift truck units. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode too.
The carriage sideshift could greatly improve placement dexterity. The mast sideshift is a common feature today. This is offered on most available lift trucks. 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 both sides of the center of the mast.