Abstract: A transfer apparatus for bag packages in a packaging machine has a pair of tongs with jaws for transferring a flat bag which is delivered in a vertical plane, to bag holders of a conveyor apparatus on a path extending transversely to the plane (I) in which the bags are delivered. For quiet operation, which also needs little readjustment or supervision, the jaws are actuated via connecting rods and a lever mechanism. The tongs are rotatably supported on a pivot arm which is pivotable coaxially with the axis of rotation of the crank of the lever mechanism.