A freeze dryer comprises a chamber having a rectangular slot through which vials are inserted into the chamber. An assembly for loading the chamber comprises a bar extending across the slot to engage vials to be inserted into the chamber. The bar is attached to a mechanism for moving the bar laterally into and out from the chamber. In a retracted position of the bar, at least part of the mechanism is wound around a sprocket. Rotation of the sprocket unwinds the mechanism to move the bar into the chamber.