A telehandler, also known as a telescopic handler, telescopic forklift, reach forklift, or boom lift is a type of highly efficient and multi-purpose construction equipment, the popularity of which has been increasing rapidly. Before, it was mostly used in the agricultural industry, however, recently it’s been gaining close attention from the industry of construction and engineering.
The global market value of telescopic handlers reached USD 5.8 billion in 2020, USD 6.2 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 9.3 billion by 2028. As opposed to other construction machinery types, even during global pandemic times the market demonstrated a significant increase, which shows a steadily growing demand for telehandlers.
Brief history of a telehandler
A telehandler, originally called a ‘telescopic forklift’ was designed in 1977 by JCB. The model was called 520 and had two wheels instead of four. That machine was a hybrid of a backhoe, a forklift and a crane, 3-in-1. Later, a telehandler was redesigned into four-wheel equipment and got various attachments.
Agricultural application of a telescopic handler
Unique features
What is the difference between a telescopic handler and a regular skid steer loader? The unique feature of the first one is that its boom can extend. It makes it more of a crane rather than a loader, and adds a lot of usefulness to it. The variety of jobs this equipment can be used for is astonishing: from moving heavy loads off of trucks to removing snow and cleaning up roads. Another big advantage of using a telehandler is that its lift has an unlimited range of movements. It can move vertically, horizontally and even diagonally. Also, telescopic handlers can leverage weight on different types of surfaces, and it doesn’t require adding extra safety protocols.
Just like a front loader, a telehandler has many different attachments, which makes it even more versatile. The most popular attachment types include various buckets, forks, sweepers, lifting hooks, and even extendable work platforms.
Recently, WEITAI has been working on its first telescopic handler and is pleased to announce that the WT3508 will be available for purchase soon. Intrigued? Then leave a message to learn more.
