Abstract: An improved machine for handling and erecting initially folded cartons includes axial ways and an intermittently actuable, axially reciprocating advancing-erecting mechanism. Pivotally mounted along a drive shaft of the advancing-erecting mechanism are advancing fingers and carton pick-up catches that extend upward between the ways. Mounted ahead of a carton erecting station are stationary flap separating fingers that direct a flap of the cartons between a clamp and a clamping plate of an intermittently actuable clamping mechanism. Mounted above the carton erecting station is an intermittently actuable final erecting mechanism for erecting cartons from a partially erect condition to a fully erect condition. Cartons are sequentially moved to the carton erecting station by the catches on a forward stroke of the drive shaft and clamped.