Abstract: A method for transferring a liquid, particularly liquid metal, from a supply to a receiver. The transfer is carried out by means of at least one suction pump located in the receiver. The outlet of the pump is covered by the liquid being pumped. A buffer zone in shape of a two phase liquid/gas zone is established and maintained between the pump and the supply and liquid from the supply is supplied to the gas phase portion of the buffer zone by discharging the liquid from liquid phase portion of the buffer zone by means of said pump. Precaution is taken that the pump outlet is covered by liquid at all times.