Format change method for a thermoforming machine and a thermoforming machine. A station of the machine includes an upper tool and a lower tool, at least one of the upper and lower tools being suitable for moving in a substantially vertical actuating direction during the operation of the machine. In the method, the upper tool is supported on the lower tool and both tools are subsequently withdrawn from the station and are replaced with new tools. When withdrawing the upper and lower tools from the station and when introducing the new tools therein, the tools are moved simultaneously and jointly in a replacement direction different from the actuating direction.