A separating apparatus (10) for separating crossed hooks (21a-d) of overhead conveyor units (2a-d) includes a conveying cylinder (1) having a recess (11) which forms a helical thread (12) with helix base (121) and helix flanks (122, 123) for the conveyance of the hooks (21a-d). The conveying cylinder (1) includes at least, one wing-shaped separating element (13), which extends over a partial circumference of the conveying cylinder (1) and protrudes in the radial direction from the peripheral surface of the conveying cylinder (1), wherein the separating element (13), by rotation of the conveying cylinder (1), is insertable between two hooks (21a-d) resting on the conveying cylinder (1).