Abstract: A handling apparatus can be used with particular advantage as a pallet moving apparatus, and includes a machine frame with an extension arm, movable in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction, on which is provided an engaging element for receiving a gripping device. The extension arm has a first rocker element that is mounted on the machine frame and is driven rotatably about a horizontal rotation axis, and at its free end a second rocker element is arranged rotatably and is positively coupled to the first rocker element via a linkage in such a way that when the first rocker element rotates, the engaging element describes a locus curve with largely linear horizontal and vertical sections. Preferably the two rocker elements are positively coupled in such a way that an imaginary rotation of the first rocker element through 360 degrees results in a substantially square locus curve in a vertical plane.