A feeder mechanism for feeding load items in a predetermined spaced relationship into a loading station of a carton loading machine comprises at least two conveyors which move at different speeds along the same path and elevator ramps on each of the conveyors. The primary conveyor has a forward run mounted for movement at a first predetermined speed in a forward direction. The forward run has an input end for receiving load items and it extends forwardly from the input end into a spacing station. The secondary conveyor has a forward run mounted for movement at a second speed in the forward direction which is faster than the first speed. At least a portion of the forward run of the second conveyor is located adjacent and coextensive with a portion of the forward run of the primary conveyor in the spacing station. A plurality of elevator ramps are mounted on the secondary conveyor at longitudinally spaced intervals therealong. Each ramp has a ramp face which is upwardly and rearwardly inclined in a direction opposite to the forward direction. The leading end of each ramp is disposed at or below the level of the adjacent primary conveyor and the trailing end of each ramp being disposed at a level above the level of the adjacent first conveyor. The ramps are aligned with load items supported on the first conveyor in use such that as the secondary conveyor accelerates the ramps with respect to the primary conveyor, the ramp face will pass under a load item and elevate it out of contact with the primary conveyor and thereafter transport the load items through the spacing station with successive load items being spaced from one another.
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