Telehandlers

Telehandlers, or telescopic handlers, are wheeled machines with a telescoping boom that carries forks or other attachments. They lift and place materials such as pallets of block, roof trusses and lumber on construction sites, and handle bales and feed on farms. Their reach lets them place loads up and out where a forklift cannot.

When comparing telehandlers, look at maximum lift capacity, maximum lift height and forward reach, keeping in mind that capacity falls as the boom extends; the manufacturer's load chart is the reference. Operating weight, overall width, height and length, wheelbase, ground clearance and turning radius matter for site access and transport. Engine power, travel speed and frame levelling are also worth comparing.

Across the 55 models listed here, operating weight ranges from about 2,395 to 20,412 kg (5,280 to 45,000 lb). Brands covered: Bobcat, Caterpillar, Gehl, Genie, JCB, JLG, Manitou, SkyTrak, Skyjack.