Abstract: A vertical conveyor comprising a centrally rotatable column having a plurality of spaced apart container pusher bars extending therefrom. A helical container support bed extends around the central column and is positioned outwardly therefrom for supporting the lower ends of the containers being conveyed by the conveyor. A helical guide rail is positioned outwardly of the central column and is positioned above the support bed for preventing the containers from falling from the conveyor and for maintaining the containers in engagement with the pusher bars of the central column. A gate is provided in the guide rail near the lower end of the conveyor which may be manually opened should a line stoppage occur and it is necessary to remove the containers from the conveyor through the opening created when the gate is opened.