Abstract: Apparatus for performing the method of the present invention comprises an indexing conveyor bag support defining a pick-up location for filled bags. A bag gripper comprising either clamps or suction cups is provided for gripping filled bags and a bag transporter supports and moves the bag gripper between the pick-up location and a drop-off location. A programmable controller is provided for controlling the bag transporter and the bag gripper such that filled flexible bags are engaged by the bag gripper at the pick-up location, carried from the pick-up location to the drop-off location and deposited at the drop-off location. Preferably, a conveyor is positioned to carry cartons for supporting filled bags to the drop-off location such that filled bags may be inserted into supporting cartons by the method and apparatus of the present invention.