A method for the identification of objects in a predetermined target area involves recording a first and a second height profile of the target area, wherein the two height profiles are recorded at a predeterminable time interval. A height difference profile is determined from the first and the second height profile. The height difference profile is subdivided in equidistant horizontal height sections. The positions of the centroids of the surface areas enclosed by the respective contour lines of the horizontal height sections are calculated and the determined height difference profile and the calculated centroids of the surface areas are supplied to a system for classifying objects.