Abstract: An apparatus and method transfer a shipping container from a first dockside unloaded position to a second transporting position. A horse-and-saddle assembly is mounted on a pair of transversely spaced rails, and includes a horse member with roller mechanisms cooperating with the rails. A saddle member includes a mounting frame capable of moving transversely upon the horse member. The saddle member is configured to carry the shipping container mounted thereon. A carrier suspended from an overhead monorail is movable along a track extending from the monorail. Once deposited in the saddle member mounting frame, the shipping container in the mounting frame is urged to a position from which lifting devices mounted onto the saddle frame raises the shipping container from the mounting frame. The shipping container is carried while suspended from the overhead monorail carrier to a desired transfer or storage location.