Abstract: A ratchet driven continuous chain accumulator conveyor and an accuumulating and retrieval system includes a frame having a pair of continuous chains. The chains are mounted on sprockets on either end of the accumulating conveyors and run in upper and lower chain channels. A hydraulic drive cylinder is supported by the frame of each accumulating conveyor and includes gravity dogs on an operable piston end thereof. The gravity dogs provide for imparting a ratcheting motion to each pair of chains through extension and retraction of the drive cylinder. Each accumulating conveyor includes a plurality of lift means along the length thereof for lifting cases from contact with the driving chains for relieving weight pressure thereon. The accuumulating and retrieval includes a computer control and loading mechanisms for automatically loading the accumulator conveyors with product.