Abstract: Load handling apparatus such as a lifting device has a movable platform on to which goods can be loaded that is movable relative to a base by at least one inflatable bag. The bag defines an internal inflation chamber and is disposed between the platform and the base such that upon inflation of the bag the platform is raised relative to the base. The bag is configured such that the inflation chamber is in the form an endless loop, or alternative has ends with seams that are configured to be loaded in shear when the bag is inflated. The bag is folded so as to define a plurality of superposed bag portions such that the chamber is divided into a plurality of interconnected and stacked sub-chambers. The device is simple, compact and stable. The bag has improved lifting capacity and is less prone to leakage.