Over the past ten years, telehandlers, also referred to as rough terrain variable reach lift trucks, have exceeded the reputation of powered mobile machinery. These machinery have become the gem of the construction business and with good reason. These kinds of equipment are versatile, extremely strong and practical. Because the number of models and manufacturers has exploded during the past 5 years or so, there are currently a few of these equipment readily available 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 forklift, but just in name only. Any of the similarities between a vertical mast type of forklift and a telehandler literally ends on sight and on operation. There are some other significant differences between the two machines discussed below.
As apposed to a vertical mast, a telehandler has a completely different appearance as it is designed with a horizontal boom. A telehandler with a jib attachment from a distance could look more like a crane than a forklift. The boom is able to telescope or extend and retract to lengths of 30 feet and beyond depending on the specific unit. The boom is also able to elevate to an angle from horizontal to about 70 degrees. Telehandlers have been referred to as "zoom booms" because of their ability to telescope. This name has become rather popular with the operators.
Another optional boom related function is referred to as a "Transaction". The telehandler equipped 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 One of the major benefits of this function is that it allows the forks to be cleanly withdrawn from a cargo and the forks can be cleanly inserted under, regardless of the boom angle.
Zoom booms have revolutionized the construction industry. They can perform numerous tasks which used to take much more time and man-power to complete.