A method and apparatus for transferring a load (L) to and from a load supporting platform (100) having a first end (110) pivotally coupled toward the first end of a main frame (200) with a support surface for supporting the platform (100) in a substantially level position. The platform (100) is pivotally raisable from the support surface of the main frame (200) to a raised position for discharging and accepting the load (L) either manually or by an actuatable member (300). A damping member (400) interconnects the platform (100) and the main frame (200) wherein the damping member (400) progressively increases resistance on the load bearing platform (100) as the platform moves from the raised position toward the support surface of the main frame (200) to reduce any impact on the load (L). The platform (100) includes a lower frame (130) and a cover (140) biased away from the lower frame (130) by a plurality of spring members (150) wherein the cover (140) is movable toward the lower frame (130) by the load (L) disposed on a support surface of the cover (140) to actuate a load sensor (160), which indicates the presence of the load (L). A first pair of motor driven wheels (250) is coupled to the first end of the main frame (100) to drive the apparatus along an operating surface (T), and a second pair of wheels (260) is coupled to a opposing sides of a pivoting member to compensate for unevenness in the operating surface (T).