Apparatus and method for preloading an intraocular lens in a component of an injector device. The intraocular lens is positioned in a shuttle which is positioned inside a distal section of the device. The shuttle, IOL and distal section are positioned and sealed in a vial of storage solution. At the time of use, the surgeon opens the vial and attaches a proximal section having a plunger to the distal section located in the vial. The proximal section is then lifted away from the vial together with the distal section, and the shuttle and IOL located in the distal section. The plunger is advanced to express the IOL from the distal tip of the distal section.
