Abstract: The invention relates to a transfer method and an apparatus (1) for transferring articles (2) between a line conveyor (25), on which the articles (2) are transported continuously in one or more lines (21), and a stationary or movable tray (7) for accommodating one or more rows (10) of articles. The transfer apparatus (1) has a row-transfer mechanism (11) with a gripping device (12) for one or more rows (10) of articles, and with a manipulator (15). The transfer apparatus (1) also has an accumulating device (27) for temporarily forming and delimiting accumulated groups (28) of articles and gaps (29) in the continuous line (21) on the line conveyor (25) and for independently transporting the group (28) of articles along the line conveyor (25).