The marketers of vertical-mast, rough-terrain forklifts have continued even in spite of overall diminished sales. For example, there are at least 19 different brands within North America, with over 100 various units available. In regards to makers, there is almost the same number of telehandler manufacturers, even though their products are being sold under 24 different brand names. Understandably, several of the brand names market both telehandlers and lift trucks. Several of the main players in the industry include names like Lift King, Tovel, Case, JCB, Ingersoll Rand, Omega Lift, Manitou and Sellick.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing some of the features that have increased the telehandler's fame. For instance, Manitou, Tovel, Omega Lift and AUSA utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems which 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 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, Tovel and Load Lifter all provide very durable and rigid framed machinery 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 traditional lift truck models. There are extra 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 now. This is offered on most available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast several inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This functions by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.