an apparatus and method for changing the orientation , height and direction of envelopes conveyed in an inserter system . the invention reorienting horizontally transported envelopes to a vertical position . the envelopes then being transported around a turning arrangement comprised of a length of driven belt urged against a large diameter idler wheel . a turning guide serves to aid the envelopes through the turning arrangement . a ramp module comprised of nips having toroidal outer circumferences elevate the vertical envelopes . the envelopes finally are turned 180 degrees to be sorted into sorting bins . the overall arrangement of the invention results in an output sub - system of an inserter system with a shortened footprint and ergonomically desirable layout . also , features of the invention provide that envelopes avoid damage and jamming and that recently closed envelope flaps do not inadvertently open .