During the past decade, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach forklifts, have exceeded the popularity of motorized mobile machinery. These machinery have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These machinery are very powerful, useful and versatile. Since some manufacturers and units has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are presently a few of these equipment readily offered on the market.
In technical terms, a telehandler is considered to be an ITA* Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. This description means it is a rough terrain lift truck, but only in name only. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on operation and on sight. There are several other major distinctions between the two machines discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different look because it is fitted with a horizontal boom rather than a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment could look more like a mobile crane rather than a lift truck. The boom can telescope or extend and retract as long as 30 feet and beyond depending on the particular model. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have earned the nickname of "zoom booms" due to their ability to telescope. This name has become rather famous with the operators.
One more optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the major advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a load cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be inserted under cleanly, regardless of the boom angle.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 can perform numerous jobs that used to take a lot more time and man-power to do.