What is a Telehandler?
A telehandler is a multi-use piece of equipment that has many different names. You may hear it referred to as a telescopic handler, reach lift or cherry picker! Over the years the telehandler has grown in popularity for many industries, so in this article we will break down exactly what it is and what it does.
Telehandler Basics
A telehandler is equipped with an extendable boom and most often can extend around 30 feet. It also has the capability to be elevated at a 70 degree angle. It’s considered a hybrid crane forklift, so it has the ability to be fitted with different attachments. It can even be used as a boom-lift with a proper platform attachment!
Each model will have a different workload capacity, depending on factors such as wind speed, the current attachment being used, and its angle. Typically they have a lift capacity ranging from 4,400 pounds up to 12,000 pounds, again depending on the size and current factors of the equipment. You should always refer to the manual and practice safe operating procedures.
Telehandler Uses
Traditionally this piece of equipment is known for its use in the agriculture industry, specifically to move hay bales. However, over the past several years, its popularity has reached beyond the agriculture industry and you can now find them on construction sites, in manufacturing plants, and at other various worksites.
Besides moving hay, they are great for unloading heavy truck loads, cleaning up debris, and plowing snow.
Because it is equipped with an extendable boom and an ability to utilize many different attachments, there are truly endless possibilities for this piece of equipment. It functions as a lift and place tool, so many consider it to be an advanced forklift!
Common Attachments
The most commonly used attachment are forks, which allows efficient lifting and placement of materials. Small and midsize telehandlers can be great for indoor use!
Forklift and bucket attachments come in multiple shapes and sizes and can allow scooping, lifting, loading, and moving. This option can be very beneficial for construction and agriculture uses.
Specific attachments for seasonal use might include a snow plow attachment or lumber forks.
Telehandler Safety
Since these pieces of equipment are valuable in so many different ways, it is extremely important to understand safe operation for all tasks you plan to complete. You should always follow manufacturer guidelines, practice spatial awareness, and never operate without proper training. You should always understand the limitations and restrictions of the equipment before performing any task!
If you’ve decided that a telehandler would be the perfect addition for your job or operation, our team at KMC Forklift would be happy to help you find the right one. We are located in Bryan, TX, and proudly serve the College Station, Caldwell, and Hearne communities. We provide flexible financing options along with parts and service!