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  3. What is a Telescopic Handler?

The Hybrid Forklift Option For Material Handling

Are you looking for a machine that combines the lifting power and capabilities of a forklift and the reach of a crane? You’re in luck - that’s exactly what a telescopic handler was designed to do.

Typically seen on jobsites from various industries around the world, telehandlers combine the handling capabilities of a forklift and the reach of a crane into one machine, so you can perform various tasks in one.

Telehandlers are used in a wide variety of industries around Australia from agriculture and construction to mining and logistics. Telehandlers are designed for lifting, moving and placing heavy loads with accuracy and control.

Telehandlers

How Does a Telescopic Handler Work?

A telehandler works by utilising a telescopic boom which is attached to a strong chassis. This boom extension reaches and retracts using a hydraulic system, allowing you to access a range of different heights and distances without switching machines.

Where Can Telescopic Handlers Be Used?

There are several applications of telehandlers, including:

Construction Sites

One of the most common places telehandlers are used is on construction sites. They are used for tasks that regular forklifts can’t tackle like; lifting and placing heavy steel beams, cement and sand, hoisting up concrete slabs, doors and windows, transferring materials up to scaffolding as well as working at heights.

Warehousing and Logistics

Telehandlers are ideal with high-density storage facilities and can be used when forklifts lack the forward reach to load and unload deep shelving units.

Farming and Agriculture

Telescopic handlers are a favourite among farmers as they are great for handling hay bales, clearing debris and moving heavy feed bins across uneven paddocks.

Landscaping

Landscaping professional regularly use telehandlers due to their heavy duty lifting capabilities for moving trees, soil and stone.

Emergency Rescue Services

Telehandlers are frequently deployed to move heavy debris during disaster recovery efforts or to provide a stable platform for high-access emergency repairs.

Telehandler being used on a construction site

What Are The Different Types of Telehandlers?

Fixed Frame Telehandlers

Like the name suggests, a fixed frame telehandler is designed to be stable and secure. The boom extension moves vertically and can reach forward, but the base where the operator sits remains stationary. They are designed to maximum stability and loading.

Rotating Telehandlers

Rotating telehandlers provide a range of movement. It’s compact design provides operators with stability and flexibility and essential act as a mobile crane.

The Difference Between a Telescopic Handler and a Forklift

Forklifts

  • Compact and low profile design
  • Dual front wheels and rear wheel steering with a small turning circle
  • Excel at lifting objects vertically within a limited range
  • Come in a range of sizes and load capacities suitable for all kinds of jobs
  • Commonly found in warehouses and indoors

Telescopic Handlers

  • Four wheel steering making them incredibly agile and responsive
  • Telescopic handlers can move and lift vertically, horizontally and diagonally thanks to the boom extension
  • Higher reach than a traditional forklift, allowing them to access hard-to-reach areas
  • Ideal for off-road and outdoor applications and uses like landscaping and farming
  • Higher lift capabilities and can access odd angles

The Advantages of Telehandlers

Unmatched Safety Features and Stability

Most models of telehandlers feature hydraulic stabilisers that firmly anchor the machine to the ground, allowing for safe lift and maximum reaches without toppling over.

Versatility

One of the key benefits of a telehandler is its ability to change attachments to suit the job you are doing. This means you don’t have to waste time switching between machines and forklifts. Common telehandler attachments include pallet forks, buckets, lifting jibs and work platforms.

Cost Effective

Maximise your fleet with less machines! The right telehandler does the same job as two forklifts and a crane. Reducing your fleet size lowers your overhead costs and maintenance expenses.

On and Off Road Capabilities

With 4WD capabilities, big wheels and high ground clearance, telehandlers are perfect for dealing with mud, sand and gravel.

Are You Ready To Invest In A Telehandler?

Whether you need a telehandler for argicultural needs or need a fleet of rotating telescopic handlers for a major construction project, Forklogic has a solution. We offer a wide range of machines for sale and to hire across the Sunshine Coast, Sydney and the Central Coast.

For expert advice and personalised guidance, call us on 1300 360 936.