Telehandler & Telescopic Handler Suppliers

A telehandler is basically an off-road forklift with an extendable, crane-like arm. Also called telescopic handlers these highly robust vehicles have rough terrain abilities no crane or forklift can emulate, as well as impressive reach and load capabilities.

One of the most popular applications for telehandlers is handling huge bales of hay in the agricultural sector. Not only can a telehandler negotiate undulating, rocky or muddy rural terrain, it can stack bales and anything else 15 metres high.

Telehandlers are versatile, powerful and maneuverable which makes them essential equipment in a wide range of industries from mining and manufacturing to shipping and construction.

Telehandlers are not one size fits all, far from it. Here are some options within the telehandler range.

• Super-compact telehandlers are basically more versatile forklifts with good reach.
• Compact telehandlers can reach 9 metres with loads up to 3,500kg.
• Standard telehandlers can reach about 10 metres and some options have a slightly higher weight capacity.
• High-lift telehandlers can reach 15 feet with loads up to 3,500kg.
• High-load telehandlers offer heavier lifting but only to about 9 metres.
• Rotating telehandlers can spin 360 degrees on the spot meaning they can work at height in a wide circle without moving.

The first thing to consider is this: does it meet Australian standards? Design, maintenance and overall safety standards apply to all kinds of industrial vehicles and telehandlers are no different. So before purchasing an imported telehandler, make sure it complies or you’ll end up with a very expensive outdoor ornament.

What else should you consider?

• Where will the telehandler be used?
• What surfaces does it need to work on – flat concrete, rocky terrain, sand, loose dirt or surfaces littered with debris?
• What’s the minimum load requirement?
• What are the minimum height and reach requirements?
• Does it need to work 360 degrees?
• What tyres are required – solid rubber or foam-filled?
• What horsepower?
• How important is cab comfort?

The average price for a good, mid-range telehandler is about $150,000. If you need a super heavy-duty one with maximum height and load capabilities, expect to pay around $500,000.

• Overturning due to lopsided loads
• Overturning due to excessive speed on steep terrain
• Overturning due to a load being carried too high on uneven ground
• Steering problems due to badly aligned tyres, worn gears, rusty steering or bad steering fluid transmission.
• Lifting problems due to low hydraulic fluid.
• Worn tyres due to a heavy workload on rough terrain.
• Worn suspension for the same reason.
• Overheating problems due to issues with the radiator coolant system.
• Exhaust fumes if a rough terrain forklift is used inside a badly ventilated building.

Telehandlers are highly specialised machines, not to mention expensive machines. So it’s essential to adhere to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and guidelines.

Here are some basic maintenance procedures you can do in and around the set maintenance program:

• Clean the entire forklift daily. Before each shift, use a dry rag to wipe away dirt, dust and oil.
• Check these components daily – brakes, forks, controls, tyres and hoses.
• Check for fuel or oil leaks daily.
• Conduct a thorough check of all parts every month.
• Change the oil every three months.
• Stick to the scheduled maintenance program.