Abstract: Apparatus for loosening and moving cylindrical containers, such as barrels, having edge flanges. The apparatus includes a shaft-like handle having two gripping elements at one end thereof, whereby the gripping elements are connected to the handle in such a way that there is a space which fits over the edge flange of the container. One of the two gripping elements, intended for being fitted on the inner side of the flange when in use, has a gripping edge facing the space between the two gripping elements. The gripping edge is curved in accordance with the internal curvature of the flange and preferably extends over a circumference of about 5 or more degrees.