The invention relates to a method for charging retorts in a battery of coke ovens, wherein coal is charged into the retorts by means of a charging car or via charging holes and the supply of coal is controlled or regulated according to the pressure inside the retort. According to said method, a) the coke is charged via the charging holes in a specific sequence and b) the charging gas pressure is measured and c) the charging height inside the retort is determined; d) the supply of coal is regulated according to the charging gas pressure and levelling begins if one of the two measuring values reaches a setpoint value and e) the position, direction of movement and speed of the leveller bar are also used to regulate the supply of coal once the levelling process begins.