What is a Telehandler?

A telehandler is a type of lifting machine used widely on construction sites to move heavy loads vertically and horizontally. It has a telescopic boom that allows it to extend forward and upward—making it ideal for tasks like:

• Lifting materials to upper floors
• Placing trusses
• Moving pallets across rough terrain
• Installing windows, siding, or HVAC units

The key advantage of a telehandler over a forklift is its reach and versatility. Some models come with attachments like buckets, grapples, and winches to further expand their capabilities.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Telehandler

Not every telehandler is right for every build out. To ensure maximum safety and efficiency, here are the top considerations when choosing the right machine:

1. Lift Height

Telehandlers range from compact 15-ft lifts to machines that reach over 55 feet. For indoor build outs or sites with low clearance, a smaller machine is ideal. For multi-story commercial jobs, you’ll need a model with greater vertical reach.

Rule of thumb: Choose a model that offers at least 10% more lift height than your tallest target.

2. Lift Capacity

Standard telehandlers typically lift between 5,000 and 12,000 lbs. Know the weight of the materials you’ll be moving (including pallets and rigging) and add a safety margin.

Pro tip: Lift capacity decreases the further the boom extends. Always check the machine’s load chart.

3. Boom Reach (Forward Reach)

Forward reach determines how far out the machine can extend materials—critical in tight build out scenarios like working over foundations or obstacles.

4. Terrain & Maneuverability

Will the machine be operating on muddy, uneven, or compacted jobsite surfaces? Then you’ll want a model with:

• 4-wheel drive
• All-terrain tires
• High ground clearance
• Tight turning radius

5. Attachments

Telehandlers aren’t just for lifting pallets. You can improve jobsite productivity by using attachments like:

• Buckets for moving gravel or debris
• Truss booms for roofing materials
• Work platforms for elevated personnel access

Choose a model compatible with the attachments you need.

Common Telehandler Sizes for Build Outs

Here’s a breakdown of typical telehandler categories and their ideal use cases:

Compact Telehandlers

• Lift Height: 15–20 feet
• Lift Capacity: 5,000–6,000 lbs
• Best For: Indoor or warehouse build outs with limited space

Mid-Size Telehandlers

• Lift Height: 30–45 feet
• Lift Capacity: 6,000–10,000 lbs
• Best For: Retail and commercial construction sites

Large Telehandlers

• Lift Height: 50–65 feet
• Lift Capacity: 10,000–12,000+ lbs
• Best For: Multi-story buildings and high-reach operations

Rent the Right Telehandler with Downstream

At Downstream, we specialize in helping contractors get the right equipment for the job—without the overhead of owning it. Our rental fleet includes a wide range of telehandlers, from compact models perfect for tight indoor build outs to high-reach machines suited for complex commercial projects.

What makes Downstream different:

• A modern, well-maintained fleet with top brands like JLG, Genie, and SkyTrak
• Flexible rental periods, from single-day needs to long-term builds
• Friendly support that helps you select the right size and attachments
• Reliable delivery that gets your machine on site, on schedule

When you rent from Downstream, you’re not just getting a telehandler—you’re getting confidence that your project will stay on track.

Explore our fleet and get started today

Final Tips Before You Rent

Before locking in your rental, make sure to:

• Survey your jobsite for height restrictions, obstacles, and turning space
• Calculate your lift and load needs carefully
• Plan for operator training if needed (OSHA compliance is a must)
• Schedule delivery in advance to avoid delays

For more on safe operation, check out this OSHA guide to telehandler safety.

Conclusion

Choosing the right telehandler for your build out can save time, reduce labor, and improve safety. By factoring in your site conditions, load requirements, and project scope, you can zero in on the perfect machine. And with flexible rentals from Downstream, you’ll have the gear you need—when and where you need it.

Want help picking the right telehandler for your job? Talk to our team today and we’ll get you moving in the right direction.

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