Abstract: A pallet handling platten system of the invention includes an auxiliary platten unit. The auxiliary platten unit comprises a pair of auxiliary plattens 30 normally stowable beneath the level of the load bearing surfaces of primary plattens 5 of the system. Devices 74,72 are provided for lifting the auxiliary plattens 30 to a first elevated level, for moving the auxiliary plattens 30 laterally of the system while not under load, and for lifting them when so extended to a second elevated level to take the load of the pallet. The primary plattens 5 of the system are then withdrawn while the load is supported on the auxiliary plattens, but the auxiliary plattens do not themselves move laterally under load.