Abstract: A sample tube holder having sample tube compartments with sets of spaced finger springs provided therein for maintaining sample tubes in substantially upright orientations. A guide structure having a series of openings is used to direct sample tubes into the sample tube compartments and to restrict lateral movement of sample tubes held thereby. A retainer is releasably engaged by the guide structure and has openings sized to provide access to sample tubes held by the sample tube compartments but which restrict vertical movement of the sample tubes. Tabs at a base of the sample tube holder and hold-downs fixed to a stationary structure adjacent a conveyor cooperate to restrict vertical movement of the sample tube holder during automated sampling procedures.