A "zoom boom forklift" is the industry nickname for a telescopic handler, also known as a telehandler, reach forklift, or teleporter. It is a versatile lifting machine that combines the functionality of a forklift with the extended reach of a crane.
What Makes a Zoom Boom Different
Unlike a standard forklift with a vertical mast, a zoom boom features a telescopic boom that extends forward and upward. This boom can be fitted with various attachments, including pallet forks, buckets, winches, and lifting hooks.
Key Capabilities:
Reach: Can place loads on rooftops, into trailers, and over obstacles that a standard forklift cannot reach
Attachments: Swaps between forks, buckets, work platforms, and other tools
Terrain: Handles rough terrain better than a traditional forklift
Zoom Boom vs. Standard Forklift
Feature Zoom Boom (Telehandler) Standard Forklift
Lifting Mechanism Telescopic boom (extends forward/upward) Vertical mast
Reach Forward and upward Vertical only
Attachments Forks, buckets, hooks, platforms Forks, limited attachments
Terrain Rough terrain capable Smooth surfaces
Best For Construction, agriculture, rooftop placement Warehouses, loading docks
Critical Limitation: As the boom extends, lifting capacity decreases dramatically. A telehandler with 5,000 lb capacity retracted may only lift 400 lb when fully extended.
Major Zoom Boom Manufacturers
JLG offers models like the G12-55A with 12,000 lb capacity and 55 ft lift height. The 600 Series provides 1,000 lb platform capacity and zero turning radius.
Genie produces telescopic boom lifts and telehandlers with 4x4 drive, rough terrain capability, and hybrid/electric models.
Carelift manufactures models like the ZB8044 with 8,000 lb capacity and 44 ft lift height.
Other Brands: XCMG, Zoomlion, and Linde also produce telescopic handlers.
Specifications and Capacity
Model Capacity Lift Height Engine Drive
JLG G12-55A 12,000 lbs 55 ft Diesel 4x4
Carelift ZB8044 8,000 lbs 44 ft Cummins Diesel 4x4, All-Wheel Steer
JLG 600 Series 1,000 lbs (platform) Varies Diesel Zero turning radius
Genie S Booms Varies Varies Hybrid/Electric 4x4
Price Range
Prices vary widely based on age, capacity, and condition.
Condition Model Price
Auction (Used) Carelift ZB8044 (8,000 lbs, 44 ft) $11,500 (current bid, May 2026)
Used JLG G12-55A (12,000 lbs, 55 ft) Contact seller
New Various models Contact manufacturer for quotes
Rental Rates (Estimated):
5,000 lb telescoping boom forklift: $1,182/day, $3,327/week
6,000 lb telescoping boom forklift: $1,255/day
Where to Buy or Rent
JLG: Official website for new units and dealer locator
Genie: Official website for new units
Machinio: New and used telehandlers
BuyFleetNow: Used JLG boom lifts
Jeff Martin Auctioneers: Auction listings for zoom booms
Leavitt Machinery: Telehandler sales and rentals
The bottom line: A zoom boom forklift is a telescopic handler that combines forklift capability with crane-like reach, featuring a telescopic boom that extends forward and upward. Major manufacturers include JLG, Genie, and Carelift. Capacities range from 8,000 to 12,000 lbs with lift heights from 44 to 55 ft. Used auction units start around $11,500, while rental rates begin at approximately $1,182/day. Always account for capacity loss at full extension.