Abstract: A laboratory primary sample distributor has a source zone for the input of coded receptacles containing samples and delivered in input magazines. In a distribution mode under the control of a control unit, a conveyor belt moves the receptacles from the source zone through a reading system which reads the receptacle codes in a destination zone wherein there are destination transport means. A transfer device transfers the receptacles onto the conveyor belt and a sorter device removes the receptacles from the conveyor belt and deposits them into the destination transport means. The control unit also has an archive mode during which the conveyor belt runs backward relative to the distribution mode, the sorter device transfers receptacles from the destination transport means onto the conveyor belt and the transfer device transfers receptacles from the conveyor belt into archive magazines.