During the last ten years, telehandlers, also known as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have surpassed the reputation of powered mobile machinery. These machines have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These machines are useful, versatile and extremely powerful. Because the number of models and manufacturers has exploded over the past 5 years or so, there are currently a number of these machines readily offered on the market.
The Telehandler is considered a Class 7 Powered Industrial Truck. Just in name, this description means it is a rough terrain lift truck. Any of the similarities between a telehandler and a vertical mast type forklift 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 fitted with a horizontal boom as opposed to a vertical mast. From a distance, a telehandler with a jib attachment could resemble more of a mobile crane rather than a forklift. The boom can extend and retract or telescope to lengths of 30 feet and beyond that depends on the specific model. The boom could also elevate to an angle from horizontal to approximately 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been called "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is called a "Transaction". The telehandler outfitted with this option mounted on the chassis. When the operator starts it, the boom will move back and forward for distances up to 8 feet or more. One of the main benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be withdrawn from a cargo cleanly or with no snags and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
The construction industry have been revolutionized by zoom booms. They are able to perform numerous tasks that used to take much more time and man-power to do.