A method and apparatus for inspecting items for the presence of contraband. Trays may be used to hold items as they move through an inspection station. After use, the trays may be mechanically conveyed back to an entry region of the inspection station so that the trays may be used to move other items. Mechanically conveying the trays may enable increased throughput for inspection stations. A tray return may be constructed from multiple modules positioned to the side of an inspection machine. In use at an airport or other similar facility, the tray return may face a passenger use area at an inspection station. Passengers exiting the inspection station may place trays in the tray return. Passengers entering the inspection station may remove a tray from an end of the tray return at an entrance of the inspection station.