During the last decade, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have surpassed the reputation of powered mobile machines. These machines have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These machines are extremely powerful, useful and versatile. Since several units and manufacturers has exploded over the last 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these machines readily available on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. In name only, this description means it is a rough terrain forklift. 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 machinery discussed below.
A telehandler has an entirely different appearance as it is equipped 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 forklift. The boom can telescope or retract and extend to lengths of 30 feet and beyond that depends on the specific unit. The boom can also 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.
Another optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this alternative mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom would move forward and back for distances up to 8 feet or more. Amongst the key advantages of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks could be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction business. They are able to perform numerous jobs which used to take much more time and man-power to do.