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The Swiss Army Knife of the Jobsite
Maximizing ROI with versatile telehandlers
By Cole Renken
In today’ s competitive construction landscape, efficiency is the name of the game. Project managers and contractors are under constant pressure to meet tighter deadlines and stricter budgets. The old mindset of“ one machine, one job” is not just tired; it’ s a costly liability.
Relying on a fleet of specialized equipment— a forklift here, a crane there, a work platform somewhere else— creates logistical headaches, inflates operational costs and demands extensive operator training across multiple platforms. In this environment, versatility becomes a financial strategy that dictates a project’ s profitability and timeline.
The High Cost of a“ One-Trick Pony”
Every machine sitting idle on a jobsite represents a drain on resources. This goes beyond the initial capital investment tied up in equipment that may only be used for a fraction of the project’ s duration. Each single-purpose machine brings with it a unique maintenance schedule, a separate inventory of parts, and distinct operational training requirements.
The logistical costs of transporting multiple units to a site, coupled with the challenge of managing a larger, more complex fleet, can quickly erode a project’ s profit margins. This complexity creates a significant barrier to efficiency, forcing crews to wait for the“ right” machine to arrive or spend valuable time switching between machines with different controls and cabs. The modern contractor needs a better way— a problem-solver that consolidates these functions.
The need for adaptability is precisely where the telehandler has evolved from a simple lift-and-place machine into the undisputed multi-tool of the modern jobsite. The challenge, however, is finding a machine that doesn’ t sacrifice performance for the sake of versatility.
Cole Renken, general manager / president at Merlo America, has 28 years of industry experience with major equipment manufacturers in sales, marketing, program management and dealer development roles.
A Versatile Solution, A Familiar Feel
At Merlo America, we believe a telehandler should be a force multiplier. For over 60 years, our engineering philosophy has been centered on creating machines that are built to last for generations and can handle whatever you throw at them. This starts with a comprehensive ecosystem of attachments designed for any application, from construction to agriculture and forestry.
16 l September-October 2025