Provided is an automated transfer unit of box-shaped elements corresponding with at least one storage surface, including clamping bars positioned alongside and distanced from each other so as to contain a plurality of box-shaped elements aligned with each other, and control and guide means configured to move the clamping bars to engage and translate the aligned box-shaped elements as a unit. Further provided is a procedure for placing box-shaped elements arranged in rows on a storage surface; translating as a unit onto a work surface at least a portion of a row including a plurality of box-shaped elements; selecting and separating on the work surface at least one box-shaped element and sending it for delivery; and repositioning any residual box-shaped elements.