Abstract: The invention concerns a device for the receiving, moving and radiation-shielding of vessels filled with expended reactor fuel elements. The device consists of a protective container having a base, a cylindrical protective jacket and a cover made from concrete. At the lower rim of the jacket there are lateral air ducts which open into the annular space between protective jacket and fuel element vessel. In the area of the upper jacket edge, lateral air outlet ducts are provided. For facilitating the loading of the device with fuel element containers and its transportation, the base is constructed in the form of a separate movable pallet. The fuel element container can be placed on this pallet, and the protective jacket over it. The air outlet ducts in the area of the cover are arranged in an inclined or angular fashion. The base is provided with a raised center platform for supporting the fuel element vessel.