Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for diverting the path of container units or other articles from an initial conveying direction in a conveying system. In a preferred example, the conveying system incorporates a hinged divert section along a conveying path to more efficiently and robustly divert a container or article in one of several directions, preferably perpendicular to the initial conveying direction. The invention is particularly useful in package processing and storage applications. The hinged divert section of the invention operates using a mechanically advantageous hinged or tilting surface that requires less energy or force to engage a container transport element. Multiple vertical levels can be employed within the conveying system, with the hinged divert section moving vertically and transporting containers in different directions and/or different levels within the conveying system.