A compacting apparatus (1) for compacting receptacles has at least one advancing device (2) for conveying a receptacle (G) in a conveying direction (E) to an exit opening (6) of the compacting apparatus (1). The at least one advancing device (2) is configured to act on the receptacle (G) for compacting during conveying. A flap device (5) has an adjustable retaining flap (50) that closes the exit opening (6) in a closed position so that a receptacle (G) conveyed against the retaining flap (50) by the at least one advancing device (2) is retained on the retaining flap (50). The retaining flap (50) is adjustable out of the closed position to release the exit opening (6).