Abstract: A system for transferring cargo from a ship to a quay and vice versa comprises a reloading platform with an associated conveyor arranged in a side port opening of a ship and a conveyor arranged on a quay. The system includes a transfer platform with separate conveyors for transporting the cargo horizontally as well as support members fastened to the ship and quay, respectively, a pair of guides which are arranged between the support members and hoisting wires for lifting and lowering the transfer platform along the guides. In another embodiment, the transfer system can be mounted on a stand which remains on a quay. In this embodiment, the upper support member is releasably connected to the reloading platform of a ship which is brought alongside the quay.