Provided is a method and apparatus for applying a bail handle to a container. The applicator includes a pickup mandrel for picking up the bail handle to be applied to a container; a stationary mandrel for receiving the bail handle from the pickup mandrel, the stationary mandrel having an engaging surface which has a diameter larger than an inner diameter of the bail handle when picked up by the pickup mandrel; and an applicator mandrel for receiving the bail handle from the pickup mandrel, the applicator mandrel having an engaging surface which has a diameter equal to or smaller than the stationary mandrel.