During the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have surpassed the reputation of powered mobile equipment. These machines have become the gem of the construction industry and with excellent reason. These types of machines are very powerful, practical and versatile. As the number of models and manufacturers has exploded during the last 5 years or so, there are presently a number of these machinery readily offered on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. In name only, this description means it is a rough terrain lift truck. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are several other significant differences between the two machines discussed below.
Compared to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different look as it is made with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance can resemble more of a crane rather than a forklift. The boom is able to extend and retract or telescope as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator activates it, the boom would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Among the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have changed the construction industry. They could perform many kinds of tasks which used to take much more time and man-power to complete.