A grouping system for grouping containers including a track oriented in a horizontal plane, a plurality of lugs coupled moveably to the track, and a plurality of grippers, wherein each gripper is coupled to a lug, wherein the grippers are configured to move a stream of containers about the track.

A battery cell stacking apparatus includes a skid to hold parts, a linear conveyor that moves the skid forward, and a linear shuttle that moves the skid from side to side. Arranged along the shuttle's path are three types of loading equipment. A first and a second loading apparatus work to alternately stack battery cells onto the skid. A separate third loading apparatus places protective pads between the layers of cels. The conveyor and shuttle work together to move the kid to each piece of equipment in sequence. The system can also feature a lifting apparatus to raise the finished stack and an elevator to return empty skids.