A limit stop support device for fitting variable-width plasterboards upon appliances for lifting and handling such boards comprises a one-piece receiving support which fulfils various adjustable-position sliding functions along a holder arm of the board holder or panel holder. The support receives a board or panel limit stop which is retractable in opposition to elastic return element(s) located on the receiving support, and a unit which fulfills a dual function of locking the receiving support in position on the arm and limiting the travel of the limit stop in opposition to the elastic return element(s) in an operating phase in order to place boards and panels on a ceiling and/or wall.