Abstract: An improved apparatus for threading thermoplastic film through at least one forward stretching machine 23, comprising driven, stationary rolls 1 and driven, raised lift rolls 2. Each of the rolls 1 and 2 has an intake plate 4 on one of its front sides, which has a milled grooved 24 for the threading apparatus to pass through. The threading apparatus comprises a flexible rod 18 with a removably attached clamp component 13 or 25. The clamp components contain variously configured clamping elements, springs, and insertion slots. The clamping elements are arranged in such a way that they hold the film web 3, which has been inserted in them, during the transport of the threading unit through the forward stretching machine, this holding being done by means of self-locking or spring-loading. For the reliable introduction of the threading apparatus into the forward stretching machine 23, there is disclosed an insertion unit 31, having pairs of upper and lower guide bearings 19.