Provided is an unloading system and a method for unloading a tire tread carrier, wherein the tire tread carrier includes a plurality of plates, wherein each plate is arranged for supporting at least one tread for a tire, wherein the unloading system includes an arm with a retaining device for picking up and retaining treads, wherein the arm is provided with a lifting device that is arranged to move together with the arm for lifting one of the plates, wherein a control system is arranged for controlling a drive system to position the arm in a starting position in which the lifting device extends at least partially underneath said one plate and to subsequently move the arm upwards such that the lifting device is moved towards a lifting position, thereby lifting said one plate; from the closed position towards the open position.