The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have continued even in spite of diminished overall sales. Like for instance, there are at least 19 different brand names in North America, with more than 100 various units 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, some of the brands sell both lift trucks and telehandlers. Several of the main players in the industry consist of brand names such as Lift King, Tovel, JCB, Case, Omega Lift, Ingersoll Rand, Sellick and Manitou.
By borrowing a few of the features that have increased the telehandler's popularity, forklift makers have been able to increase their maneuverability advantages. Like for example, AUSA, Omega Lift, Manitou and Tovel use hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that 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 provided as an option by Load Lifter, Lift King and Swinger lift trucks.
Another telehandler-like technology is the 4-wheel steer. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter all provide extremely durable and rigid framed machinery operating 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 extra flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The side-shifting mast or carriage sideshift can enhance placement dexterity. A standard feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is provided on most lift trucks available. It allows the operator to move the mast hydraulically several 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.