Abstract: An automatic unloading apparatus is adapted for use in unloading mail from a container and delivering such unloaded mail to a mail sorting machine separator. The mail is initially provided in an open topped container having openings or apertures formed at the lower forward end thereof. The unloading apparatus includes blades which can pass through the openings or apertures into the container and beneath the mail therein. The unloading apparatus also includes fingers movable perpendicularly through the blades and a movable carriage upon which the blades and fingers are mounted. After the fingers are raised to act as a forward stop for the mail, the blades are raised to remove the mail from the container. The carriage moves forwardly to deliver the removed mail to the sorting machine separator and then moves rearwardly to discharge the empty container.