Abstract: An article identifying system especially adapted for use in identifying coded containers being transferred from one point to another by means which require that the containers be moved in a vertical direction while being moved in a horizontal direction.A code reading scanner mounted on a vertical carrier is positioned alongside the path of movement of the article. The carrier moves vertically in synchronism with the vertical motion of the container so that at whatever level the container passes the carrier position, the scanner will be at the same level as the container.To move the carrier vertically in synchronism with the vertical motion of the container, the motor driving the carrier is controlled by a signal generated by the vertical motion of the container.