A method for loading a container with packages, using a device having at least one guide. At least one hand element is displaceable in the longitudinal direction of the guide, and is provided on the at least one guide. The hand element has a plurality of finger elements. The finger elements have at least two flexible flank elements extending together from one end of the finger element to the opposing end. The at least two flexible flank elements of the finger elements are flexibly connected together via a plurality of webs. The finger elements may be adjusted from at least one curved position into at least one extended position and back. The at least one hand element takes packages one after the other, and deposits the packages into the container in a stack. The hand element is displaced along the guide between the deposit of two successive packages.