What is a telehandler? How to operate it？Purchasing tips to avoid common mistakes!

According to the latest statistics and forecasts from the market research firm QYResearch, the global telehandler (telescopic forklift, telehandler forklift) market has reached a sales revenue of $4.344 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $5.685 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.1%.

As a type of equipment that combines the lifting capability of forklifts with the range of cranes, telehandlers are highly versatile and efficient. Their telescopic boom extends forward and upward, reaching a maximum lifting height of 18 meters. Telehandlers play an irreplaceable role in construction, agriculture, and warehousing. However, with a wide variety of brands and models available in the market, how should businesses and buyers choose the most suitable equipment? This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the core functions, operational guidelines, market trends, and leading brands of telehandlers worldwide.

1. What Is a Telehandler?

A telehandler, also known as a telescopic forklift, is an all-terrain multipurpose forklift equipped with a telescopic boom. It features high load capacity, excellent stability, a broad range of applications, and flexible operation, making it widely used in industries such as construction materials, agriculture, and livestock farming. Based on their usage and structure, telehandlers can be classified into compact, general-purpose, and rotating models.

Compared to traditional forklifts, telehandlers offer a broader operational range. With their extendable booms, they can transport materials at greater heights and distances, making them ideal for construction sites and farm stacking operations. Additionally, telehandlers equipped with attachments can outperform standard forklifts, handling tasks such as high-altitude lifting and long-distance scooping. Many telehandlers also feature four-wheel drive, enabling stable operation in rugged terrains such as farmland and mountainous regions.

Due to their versatility and adaptability, telehandlers have gained significant traction in construction, agriculture, and industrial sectors. As global infrastructure development accelerates, agricultural mechanization advances, and the demand for high-efficiency and flexible equipment grows, the telehandler market has continued to expand. Models with lifting heights exceeding 10 meters dominate the market, accounting for over 70% of total sales, particularly in heavy construction, mining, and challenging industrial applications. The construction sector is the largest application market for telehandlers, comprising approximately 45% of the total market share, as their flexibility and efficiency make them indispensable on construction sites.

2. How to Operate a Telehandler？

While telehandlers offer powerful performance, proper understanding of their operational guidelines is essential to ensure worker safety and maximize efficiency. Many new operators are unfamiliar with key operating principles, leading to safety violations that may cause equipment damage or workplace accidents. Mastering correct telehandler operation can not only improve efficiency but also extend the machine’s lifespan.

2.1. Operator Safety Responsibilities

2.1.1. Before operating any telehandler, the operator must read and familiarize themselves with the operation manual, as well as any additional safety documentation provided by the manufacturer and user.

2.1.2. Operators must follow safe working practices, be aware of potential hazards, and use all available safety measures to protect themselves, nearby personnel, the telehandler, and the work environment.

2.1.3. Operators must understand the function and control mechanisms for various operating states, such as forward alignment and non-alignment positions exceeding 90°.

2.1.4. Operators must be aware of the load chart under different boom extension conditions, including any attachments used, as well as the load capacities when supported by stabilizers, outriggers, or tires.

2.1.5. Before loading cargo, operators must assess the load’s weight and center of gravity.

2.1.6. Operators should check for overhead obstacles, such as power lines, and maintain a safe distance from them.

2.2. Operational Precautions

2.2.1. Operators should use the three-point contact method when entering and exiting the telehandler’s cab.

2.2.2. Safety belts must be fastened, the handbrake engaged, and the clutch disengaged before starting the engine or power system.

2.2.3. Operators must never drive the telehandler directly toward personnel.

2.2.4. Caution should always be exercised when reversing or maneuvering in areas accessible to others.

2.2.5. No person should stand under or pass beneath a raised telehandler load, whether it is empty or carrying cargo.

2.3. Driving Precautions

2.3.1. Before driving on roads or worksites, ensure the telehandler is in forward alignment mode and that upper-structure locking systems are engaged.

2.3.2. To prevent loss of control, do not engage the differential lock while making high-speed turns.

2.3.3. Maintain a clear line of sight; if the load obstructs forward vision, reverse cautiously or seek assistance from a guide.

2.3.4. Start, stop, turn, and change directions smoothly to prevent load shifting or tip-overs.

2.3.5. When driving on slopes greater than 5%, always move with the load facing uphill.

2.3.6. Never rotate the cab while on an inclined surface.

3. What are some of the telehandler forklift brands?

As the telehandler market expands, competition among brands has intensified. Each manufacturer leverages its technological strengths and market positioning to capture different market segments. The following provides a comparative analysis of four major global telehandler brands: Manitou, JCB, JLG, and TDER.

1. Manitou

Pros: A French brand known for versatility and excellent off-road performance. Suitable for complex working conditions in construction, agriculture, and industrial sectors.

Cons: Higher price, and after-sales service coverage may not be as extensive in certain markets.

2. JCB

Pros: A British brand recognized for durability and reliability. Designed for operator comfort and efficiency, making it ideal for construction and industrial use.

Cons: Some users report average fuel efficiency under heavy loads.

3. JLG

Pros: A U.S. brand and a leader in aerial work platforms and telehandlers. Known for high lifting capacity and a wide range of attachment options.

Cons: Heavier equipment may not be suitable for narrow or uneven terrain.

4. TDER

Pros: A Chinese brand offering high cost-effectiveness and excellent heavy-load performance. Well-suited for construction and industrial applications.

Cons: Relatively lower brand recognition in international markets.

With evolving market demands, brands continue to refine their product lines to address diverse customer needs. TDER, a Chinese telehandler manufacturer, has gained traction in global markets by offering affordability and durability. Some key advantages of TDER 2.5 - 5 Tonne telescopic forklift truck include:

1. Flexible steering modes: Equipped with front-wheel, four-wheel, and crab steering, allowing precise lateral movement in tight spaces.

2. Heavy-duty axles: TDER telehandlers use 10-ton axles, compared to the 6-8 ton axles on equivalent international models, ensuring greater load stability.

3. Advanced visual safety system: Unlike JCB and Manitou, which rely primarily on rearview cameras, TDER telehandlers come standard with rear and right-front cameras for better visibility and enhanced safety.

4. High-efficiency radiator: TDER’s plate-fin radiator offers superior cooling performance in high-temperature environments compared to traditional tube-and-fin radiators.

5. 24/7 global after-sales service: TDER provides 12-hour response times and 48-hour solutions worldwide, with zero-cost parts replacement during the warranty period.

Industry experts highlight the growing importance of telehandlers in global markets, driven by infrastructure expansion and industrial automation. As businesses seek efficient and adaptable lifting solutions, brands like TDER are emerging as competitive alternatives to established global players.