An assembly is for handling goods holders, such as storage containers, storage trays, and/or storage pallets, of an automated storage and retrieval system. The assembly includes a base body, a lifting frame, a gripper, and at least one connecting element. The base body is for connection to a lifting device for vertical transportation of the goods holders in a storage column. The lifting frame has a central opening, and is arranged at a vertical distance below said base body. The gripper is associated with the lifting frame and for engaging with the goods holder. The at least one connecting element is for connecting the lifting frame and the base body. The vertical distance between the lifting frame and the base body is variable.