Abstract: An automated sample registration system for registering samples disposed in sample containers or tubes, the system including: a sample container infeed store station having a holding location with a store array configured for storing the containers therein; a sample imager station, with a machine vision system having at least one of a line scanner and a camera, at least one of the line scanner and the camera being configured to generate a machine readable image of each container transported from the array with a transport device automatic grip, the container being held in the grip substantially continuously from container pick, at the store array, throughout imaging of the container by the machine vision system; wherein the grip holds the sample container substantially coincident, at least in part, with imaging of the container by the machine vision system so that generating the machine readable image is effected in one grip step.