An apparatus and method for charging a melting furnace having a charging opening in its sidewall, in which a closed housing contains a pivotally mounted receiving pan having a discharge chute on one side thereof, the discharge chute adapted to extend into the charging opening in the furnace sidewall; and means for moving the charging apparatus into the charging opening of the furnace and removing the apparatus to a position remote therefrom. A method for feeding the furnace over a predefined area, and continuously feeding the furnace during all phases of operation, including slagging and tapping, is also disclosed.