How Elsevier’s Article Transfer Service transforms the author experience

What is the Article Transfer Service and why is it important? 

Every year, millions of research articles face rejection from journals. About half of these manuscripts eventually find a home elsewhere, often after significant delays and duplicated effort. The Article Transfer Service aims to bridge this gap by recommending more suitable journals and seamlessly transferring manuscript files and metadata, saving time for authors, editors, and reviewers.

“Article transfer is a big part of the solution,” said Dr. Stewart Bland, Head of Editorial Strategy at Elsevier. “If we can both find the right journal for authors and move their information across, that’s a great combination.” 

How transfer recommendations are made 

Our transfer process combines AI-powered analytics and expert editorial assessment: 

AI powered analytics

After a rejection, advanced matching algorithms identify alternative journals for the author, who then receives an email with tailored recommendations. Authors can review journal metrics, such as Impact Factor and acceptance rates and (if they wish) transfer their manuscript with a single click. The process is fully automated and requires no additional editorial effort.  

Expert guidance

Elsevier journal editors use their expertise to analyse manuscripts and make recommendations for transfers. Our global team of Scientific Editors, who are all subject-matter experts, take a personal approach to each manuscript. They assess and provide guidance to increase the chance of acceptance at the next journal on the publication journey.  

Proven benefits for authors and journals 

Data shows that articles that receive a transfer offer are significantly more likely to be published in an Elsevier journal. Transferred articles also move from submission to acceptance about 10 days faster than all submitted manuscripts. Authors value this streamlined process, which simplifies decision-making and accelerates publication. For journals, ATS provides a steady stream of relevant content, strengthening their scholarly community.  

The role of AI and future developments 

While editor-led transfers remain the most successful, AI-powered recommendations are rapidly advancing. Justyna Vinci, ATS Program Lead, notes a 40% increase in transfers through AI tools in 2025 compared to the previous year. As large language models evolve, AI plays an increasingly significant role in matching rejected manuscripts to the right journals.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can transfers occur across all Elsevier journals?

Transfers are possible between any journals using Editorial Manager, and in some cases, across different submission platforms. 

How are transfer connections decided?

Connections are based on editorial discussions, data analysis of rejected manuscript destinations, and AI-generated recommendations. 

Do authors have to transfer their manuscripts?

Not at all. After receiving a transfer offer, the author can decide to accept or decline the offer. Manuscripts are only transferred if the author accepts the transfer offer. 

How does the transfer process handle open access or hybrid publishing options?

The transfer recommendations accommodate various publishing models, including open access and hybrid options, ensuring authors can select the most suitable publication route. 

A seamless experience for societies and authors 

For societies with multiple journals, ATS can be tailored to facilitate transfers within journal families, leveraging close editorial relationships for even smoother transitions. This reduces resubmission effort and accelerates publication timelines, benefiting both authors and society partners.