Material Handler vs. Telehandler: What’s the Difference?

July 5th 2024

Material Handler vs. Telehandler: What’s the Difference?

Navigating the construction industry means dealing with numerous decisions, and choosing the right equipment is one of the most critical ones. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the variety of heavy equipment available and unsure which option will best meet your needs? You’re not alone. Many professionals face this challenge, especially when deciding between material handlers and telehandlers. 

At SANY, we specialise in providing expert advice and top-notch machinery to help you succeed in your projects. Our extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of construction equipment allow us to guide you through this decision-making process. We understand the nuances of each machine and how they can impact your project’s efficiency, safety, and overall success. 

In this article, you’ll discover the key differences between material handlers and telehandlers, the unique benefits each offers, and how to choose the right equipment for your specific needs. Let’s dive in and demystify these powerful tools to help you make the most informed decision for your projects. 

 Understanding Material Handlers

Material handlers are designed for efficient and precise handling of bulk materials. These machines are commonly used in industries such as scrap handling, port applications, and recycling. Equipped with long booms and specialised attachments like grapples or magnets, material handlers excel at loading and unloading heavy materials from trucks, railcars, and containers. Their ability to rotate 360 degrees enhances their operational flexibility, making them ideal for tasks requiring repetitive movements within a confined area. 

Understanding Telehandlers 

Telehandlers, also known as telescopic handlers, are highly versatile machines used primarily in the construction and agricultural sectors. They combine the lifting capabilities of a forklift with the reach of a crane, making them ideal for lifting and placing materials at height. Telehandlers come with telescopic booms that can extend forwards and upwards, allowing them to reach over obstacles and place loads with precision. Like material handlers, they can be equipped with attachments that further enhance their versatility on the job site. 

Key Differences Between Material Handlers and Telehandlers 

While both machines serve the important role of facilitating efficient material handling, they each excel in distinct applications and environments. In this section, we break down some of the key differences between material handlers and telehandlers.  

Purpose and Applications

• Material Handlers: Primarily used for handling bulk materials in industries like scrap handling, ports, and recycling. Our material handler range is built for tasks that involve repetitive loading and unloading of heavy materials.

• Telehandlers: Typically used in construction and agriculture for lifting and placing materials at height. The extendable booms of our Telehandlers make them ideal for reaching over obstacles and placing loads with precision.

 Operational Flexibility

• Material Handlers: Feature 360-degree rotation, providing exceptional flexibility in confined spaces and for repetitive tasks. 

• Telehandlers: Offer extendable booms that provide reach and precision, making them suitable for lifting and placing materials in hard-to-reach areas. 

Mobility and Terrain Adaptability

• Material Handlers: Typically designed for operation in relatively flat and stable environments, such as scrapyards, ports, and recycling facilities. They might not be as effective on uneven or rugged terrains. 

• Telehandlers: Built with robust tires and suspension systems, telehandlers are adept at navigating uneven and rough terrains commonly found on construction sites and agricultural fields. 

Operator Visibility and Control

• Material Handlers: Often equipped with elevated cabs that provide operators with a higher vantage point, enhancing visibility over large piles of materials or high-sided containers. 

• Telehandlers: While offering good visibility, telehandlers are generally more focused on providing control over the boom extension and attachment use, allowing precise placement of materials. 

Speed and Maneuverability

• Material Handlers: Designed for the repetitive and stationary nature of loading and unloading tasks, these machines prioritise operational efficiency over travel speed. 

• Telehandlers: These machines are typically faster and more maneuverable than material handlers as they’re designed to move quickly across job sites and handle various lifting tasks efficiently. 

Lift Capacity and Reach 

• Material Handlers: Equipped with longer booms, they have a significant reach but are often optimised for handling bulk materials rather than maximum lifting capacity. 

• Telehandlers: While they may not reach as far as some material handlers, telehandlers often have higher lift capacities, making them suitable for heavy lifting tasks. 

Durability

• Material Handlers: Built to endure the demanding environments of scrap yards and ports, material handlers are typically rugged and durable, being tailored to handling heavy, abrasive materials. 

• Telehandlers: Designed for versatility and to handle the diverse challenges of construction and agricultural sites. 

 Final thoughts  

Understanding the differences between material handlers and telehandlers is crucial for making informed decisions in construction, agricultural, and industrial applications. Given the rapid advancements in technology and the increasing demands for efficiency and productivity, it’s essential to assess and choose the right equipment for your specific needs.  

Looking for a telehandler for sale? Or a material handler? At SANY, we understand the importance of selecting the right equipment for your projects. Our experienced network of dealers can assess your needs and help determine whether a material handler or a telehandler is more suitable. Elevate your efficiency with SANY by contacting your local SANY dealer today.