Often considered a combination of a forklift and a crane, telescopic handlers (or telehandlers) lift and place heavy materials with great precision and versatility. Multiple manufacturers produce telehandlers, though Manitou, SkyTrak (part of JLG), Gehl, and Merlou have the widest variety of options.
This post discusses pros and cons of the best and most well-known telehandler brands, as well as the features of their popular models.
10 Popular Telehandler Brands
The following represent 10 of the most popular telehandler brands from across the globe, listed in alphabetical order.
Bobcat
Perhaps it makes sense that the company that invented the compact loader is known for its compact machines. For that reason, bobcat telehandler models are typically best suited for smaller construction or farm jobs. Thanks to a variety of attachments, you can also use Bobcat telehandlers for construction, landscaping, snow removal, and more.
- Headquarters: West Fargo, North Dakota
- Founded in: 1947
- Telehandler models: 4
- Website: Bobcat telehandlers
Bobcat’s telehandler models in the U.S. range from 74-horsepower machines that weigh under 10,000 pounds to 135-horsepower units that weigh over 18,000 pounds. Lifting height for these models range from just over 19 feet to 23 feet, and rated capacities range from 5,512 pounds to 9,041 pounds. The smallest telehandler model Bobcat offers has a rated load capacity of 5,500 pounds with a maximum lift height of just over 18 feet.
Bobcat telehandlers include the following four models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| TL619 | Fixed boom | 5,512 lb | 19.1 ft |
| TL519 | Fixed boom | 5,500 lb | 19.6 ft |
| TL723 | Fixed boom | 9,041 lb | 22.8 ft |
| TL923 | Fixed boom | 9,041 lb | 23 ft |
Caterpillar
Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction equipment as well as mining equipment, engines, turbines, and locomotives. The company’s extensive equipment line consists of over 300 products, including telehandlers, excavators, and wheel loaders.
- Headquarters: Irving, Texas
- Founded in: 1952
- Telehandler models: 7
- Website: Caterpillar telehandlers
Caterpillar offers a range of telehandlers, from compact units that excel in narrow spaces to heavy-duty machines that feature enhanced access and visibility for all-day operator comfort. The smallest model offers a rated load capacity of 5,500 pounds and a maximum lift height of just over 18 feet, while the largest machine has a capacity of 12,000 pounds and a lift height of almost 55 feet.
Caterpillar’s seven telehandler models include the following:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| TH255C | Fixed boom | 5,500 lb | 18.37 ft |
| TL642 | Fixed boom | 6,500 lb | 42 ft |
| TL642 W/STABILIZERS | Fixed boom | 6,500 lb | 42 ft |
| TL943 | Fixed boom | 9,000 lb | 43 ft |
| TL943 W/STABILIZERS | Fixed boom | 9,000 lb | 43 ft |
| TL1055 | Fixed boom | 10,000 lb | 54.9 ft |
| TL1255 | Fixed boom | 12,000 lb | 54.9 ft |
Gehl
Known for its agriculture and construction telehandlers, Gehl also makes skid loaders, track loaders, and articulated loaders. The manufacturer’s telehandler line features many smaller models that are suitable for tight spaces.
- Headquarters: West Bend, Wisconsin
- Founded in: 1859
- Telehandler models: 27
- Website: Gehl telehandlers
Gehl makes 27 telehandlers of different sizes. On the smaller side, are ultra-compact, cost-efficient telehandlers with a rated load capacity of 2,200 pounds and a max lift height of just over 14 feet. If you need to lift heavier loads or reach higher elevations, you can find a Gehl model with a load capacity of 11,000 pounds and another with a lift height of over 50 feet.
Gehl’s telehandler line includes the following models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| GCT 3-14 | Fixed boom | 2,200 lb | 14 ft 1 in |
| RS6-42 M74 | Fixed boom | 6,600 lb | 42 ft |
| TH8-42 M74 | Fixed boom | 8,000 lb | 42 ft 6 in |
| RS9-50 GEN:4 | Fixed boom | 9,000 lb | 50 ft 1 in |
| DL11-44 GEN:3 | Fixed boom | 11,000 lb | 44 ft 4 in |
Genie (Terex)
Part of Terex Corporation, Genie offers various aerial lifts and material-handling machines for agriculture and construction use. The company’s telehandlers feature the Genie Quick-Attach™ system, which allows you to easily add attachments from their range.
- Headquarters: Bothell, Washington
- Founded in: 1966
- Telehandler models: 5
- Website: Genie telehandlers
With a rated load capacity of 5,500 pounds and a max reach height of nearly 19 feet, Genie’s most compact telehandler meets the needs of many construction, landscape, and agricultural tasks. For heavy-duty applications, their larger units can lift 10,000 pounds to 12,000 pounds and have a maximum lift height of over 56 feet.
Genie’s telehandler line includes the following five models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| GTH-5519 | Fixed boom | 5,500 lb | 18 ft 10 in |
| GTH-636 | Fixed boom | 6,000 lb | 36 ft |
| GTH-844 | Fixed boom | 8,000 lb | 43 ft 10 in |
| GTH-1056 | Fixed boom | 10,000 lb | 56 ft 7 in |
| GTH-1256 | Fixed boom | 12,000 lb | 56 ft 3 in |
JCB
A multinational corporation based in the UK, JCB makes a large range of construction and agriculture machinery, as well as waste disposal and military equipment. Some JCB telehandlers offer engines with clean-burning technology or are completely electric, promising greater fuel efficiency without compromising on functionality.
- Headquarters: Rocester, United Kingdom
- Founded in: 1945
- Telehandler models: 16
- Website: JCB telehandlers
JCB’s telehandler range includes smaller models like the 525-60 AGRI that features a compact wheelbase and a tight turning radius, with a load capacity of 5,512 pounds and lift height of 18 feet and 5 inches. On the larger end, the JCB 512-83R model has a 360-degree rotating boom, a load capacity of 12,125 pounds, and an impressive 83-foot lift height.
JCB makes 16 telehandlers, including the following five models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| 525-60 AGRI | Fixed boom | 5,512 lb | 19 ft 8 in |
| 532-60 AGRI | Fixed boom | 6,614 lb | 20 ft 4 in |
| 538-60 AGRI | Fixed boom | 8,000 lb | 20 ft 5 in |
| 509-45TC | Fixed boom | 9,000 lb | 45 ft 2 in |
| 512-83R | Rotating | 12,125 lb | 83 ft |
LG / SkyTrak
A leading global manufacturer of aerial lifts and telehandlers, JLG Industries develops equipment for various industries including construction, agriculture, industrial, demolition, and mining. The company offers a diverse range of products, including rotating telehandlers and high-capacity machines. JLG’s offerings include Skytrak telehandlers, which claim to be the “number one selling brand in North America.”
- Headquarters: McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania
- Founded in: 1969
- Telehandler models: 20
- Website: JLG telehandlers
The product line includes several fixed-boom telehandlers, ranging from a rated load capacity of 5,500 pounds and a max lift height of 18 feet and 4 inches to a load capacity of 12,000 pounds and a max lift height of over 53 feet. JLG also manufactures a rotating-boom model that features an 11,000-pound load capacity and a massive 97-foot lift height.
The manufacturer’s range of JLG and Skytrak models includes the following:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| G5-18A | Fixed boom | 5,500 lb | 18 ft 4 in |
| 943 | Fixed boom | 9,000 lb | 43 ft |
| R11100 | Rotating | 11,000 lb | 97 ft |
| 12054 | Fixed boom | 12,000 lb | 53 ft 2 in |
| 1732 | Fixed boom | 16,755 lb | 31 ft 8 in |
Liebherr
This German-Swiss multinational equipment manufacturer makes a wide range of machinery for various industries, including construction, mining, and refrigeration. The company offers an extensive range of telehandlers for various applications.
- Headquarters: Bulle, Switzerland
- Founded in: 1949
- Telehandler models: 11
- Website: Liebherr telehandlers
Liebherr’s smaller telehandlers have a rated load capacity of nearly 7,055 pounds and a max lift height of almost 23 feet. If you need something more, you can opt for a model with a load capacity of 13,223 pounds or a unit with a max lift height of just under 32 feet.
Liebherr sells 11 telehandler models, including the following:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| T 32-7s | Fixed boom | 7,054.7 lb | 22.7 ft |
| T 33-10s | Fixed boom | 7,275.2 lb | 31.9 ft |
| T 41-7 | Fixed boom | 9,038.9 lb | 22.7 ft |
| T 60-9s | Fixed boom | 13,227.7 lb | 28.8 ft |
| T 36-7s | Fixed boom | 16,358.3 lb | 22.7 ft |
Manitou
Known for inventing the first all-terrain forklift truck, Manitou makes handling, lifting, and earthmoving equipment for various industries. The manufacturer sells an extensive range of telehandlers, including electric options and models designed especially for construction and agriculture.
- Headquarters: Loire-Atlantique, France
- Founded in: 1958
- Telehandler models: 67
- Website: Manitou telehandlers
Manitou’s more lightweight telehandlers are economical, compact units with a max capacity of just over 3,300 pounds and a lift height of just over 14 feet. The brand’s heavy-duty models include construction telehandlers with a max capacity of over 72,000 pounds and rotating options with a max lift height of over 113 feet.
Manitou sells more than 60 telehandler models, including the following:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| MT 625 e | Fixed boom; electric | 5,512 lb | 19 ft 2 in |
| MTA 10055 Series IV | Fixed boom | 10,000 lb | 55 ft |
| MTA 12055 | Fixed boom; electric | 12,000 lb | 55 ft 5 in |
| MHT 790 Mining ST5 | Fixed boom | 19,842 lb | 22 ft 4 in |
| MHT 10160 ST5 | Fixed boom | 35,274 lb | 31 ft 6 in |
Merlo
Italian manufacturer Merlo specializes in telehandlers, making machines for construction and agricultural use. The brand’s range includes compact, fixed boom, and rotating telehandlers. The company is known for innovative technology like Eco Power Drive (EPD), an auto rev function on its telehandlers.
- Headquarters: Cuneo, Italy
- Founded in: 1911
- Telehandler models: 24
- Website: Merlo telehandlers
Offering maximum maneuverability in confined spaces, Merlo’s most compact telehandler has a max load capacity of 5,511 pounds and a max lift height of 15 feet and 7 inches. The brand’s heavy-duty rotating telehandlers include one model with a max capacity of 26,500 pounds and another with an outstanding 115-foot max lift height.
Merlo’s telehandler line offers over 20 products, including the following five models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| P27.6 Plus | Fixed boom | 6,000 lb | 19 ft 4 in |
| MF34.7 CS | Fixed boom | 7,500 lb | 22 ft 3 in |
| Roto 50.35 S PLUS | Rotating | 11,000 lb | 115 ft 0 in |
| Roto 70.28 S PLUS | Rotating | 15,400 lb | 92 ft |
| P120.10 HM | Fixed boom | 26,500 lb | 32 ft |
Sany
Founded in China, Sany is known for its concrete machinery and is one of the largest construction equipment manufacturers in the world. In 2006, Sany America was formed to make equipment especially for the U.S. market. The company offers a range of construction and road equipment, piling machinery, and cranes.
- Headquarters: Hunan, China
- Founded in: 1986
- Telehandler models: 4
- Website: Sany Telehandlers
Sany’s product line includes four telehandlers. The smallest model has a max lift capacity of 6,000 pounds and a max lift height of just over 14 feet. The largest unit features a 12,000-pound max capacity and a max lift height of more than 56 feet. Sany claims to offer some of the most spacious cabs in the industry.
Sany’s telehandler product line consists of the following models:
| Model | Type of Telehandler | Rated Load Capacity | Maximum Lift Height |
| STH634A | Fixed boom | 6,000 lb | 34 ft 1 in |
| STH844A | Fixed boom | 8,000 lb | 44 ft |
| STH1056A | Fixed boom | 10,000 lb | 56 ft 2 in |
| STH1256A | Fixed boom | 12,000 lbs | 56 ft 2 in |
Types of Telehandlers
Also known as telescopic forklifts or high-reach forklifts, telehandlers are machines that feature a telescopic boom outfitted with a pallet fork attachment. This gives telehandlers the lifting capabilities of a forklift with the range of motion of a crane. They come with an outrigger to stabilize loads. The boom lowers to allow the fork component to lay flat, enabling the operator to secure the load from underneath.
Telescopic handlers come in a variety of types:
- Standard fixed boom telehandlers: Feature a fixed cab attached to a standard telescopic boom
- Rotating telehandlers: Have cabs that can rotate 360 degrees, allowing the boom to pick and place loads in a complete circle around the machine
- Heavy lift telehandlers: Designed specifically to lift larger loads in heavy-duty applications
In addition, manufacturers may categorize telehandlers as construction or agricultural. Smaller telehandlers, often used indoors, may be known as compact telehandlers.
How to Choose the Best Telehandler for Your Needs
When choosing the right telehandler size and model for your project, consider the following factors:
1. Decide What Lift Capacity You Need
Since the machine counterbalances the load during lifting, the size and weight of a telehandler affect how much it can lift. Look at both max lift height and max lift capacity to choose a telehandler suited to the task at hand. Each telehandler should have a load chart on its spec sheet to show what can be lifted depending on the position of the boom. Exceeding these limits can cause the telehandler to tip.
2. Assess the Work Site
Evaluate the work area to select a machine that meets your needs. Will you be working indoors or outdoors? What size telehandler can the jobsite accommodate? Consider whether there is unstable or rough terrain, as well as the possibility of bad weather. You may need a telehandler that can avoid getting stuck in mud. Think about whether 2WD is sufficient for the terrain, or if you need 4WD or even crab steer for the site.
3. Consider Maneuverability
Compact machines are typically more maneuverable than full-size telehandlers, making them a better choice for tight spaces. Choose a fixed boom telehandler if you’ll mostly be lifting loads in a straight line or have a large and open worksite. Choose a rotating telehandler for more complex tasks where you have to move the load to various places without moving the machine itself.
4. Decide Which Attachments You Need
Look at which attachments are available for the machine you’re considering, and which you need for the job. Will you need carriages, buckets, lift hooks, or specialty attachments like snow pushers or bale spears? The attachments you use affect the lifting capacity of the telehandler at different boom lengths, so always check the load chart based on your configuration.
Rent a Telehandler from BigRentz
Whether you need a 5,000-pound telehandler for lighter loads or a 20,000-pound capacity unit for heavy lifting tasks, BigRentz has the equipment rental to meet your needs. Renting a telehandler is a great way to have the right machine for your project and save costs at the same time.
