Abstract: A vacuum based lifter device is provided for displacement of an article. At least one suction plate or suction cup is designed for connection to and disconnection from a vacuum source. The suction plate or suction cup is secured to equipment in order to be able to move it together with or relative to the article which is to be displaced. The device has a pallet-like structure into which fork members mounted on a fork-lift truck can be inserted. Parts of the structure define a vacuum chamber, a vacuum source having an electrically driven vacuum pump provided on the pallet-like structure and pneumatically connected to the vacuum chamber, and a mechanically or electrically controllable stop and release valve. The release valve is pneumatically coupled between the vacuum chamber and the suction plate or suction cup.