Abstract: An apparatus for loading solid material into a receptacle or container, according to a four-phase cycle, comprises a loading blade for pushing material into the container and driving apparatus for operating the blade. The upper part of the blade and its driving apparatus are connected to a transverse beam running in a curved guide located in a vertical plane. The apparatus is particularly applicable to the compression of charges of material, particularly such as industrial or domestic waste, in a fixed or movable container or skip.