Abstract: An apparatus for handling material of the type in sheets or portions of flat sheets, includes at least one device with an autoselection function for the lifting-release of the material, of the type with a vacuum that is obtained between the sucker and the material, by a vacuum forming device through the Venturi effect or by means of a vacuum pump. This apparatus is made up of a multi-way pneumatic supply circuit of an auto-selection and auto-relief valve that includes principal pneumatic commutators. The commutators are interconnected to a third commutator that is interposed between the vacuum forming device and the auto-selection valve that supplies the sucker.