Unit Load Devices (ULD)
Improving ULD management
An Unit Load Device (ULD) is a pallet or container used to load freight for its air transportation. Every year, the total cost of both repair and loss of ULDs is estimated about $300 million, excluding flight delays and cancelations due to their unavailability.
With the increasing number of wide-bodied aircraft now in operation, ULD management is a key element of high efficiency in air transport. Making sure the right ULD is available in the right place at the right time in the right conditions is critical for airline operations and revenue management.
The IATA ULD Panel (ULDP) develops and maintains standards and procedures concerning the specifications, handling, restraint and maintenance of ULDs and promotes the worldwide recognition and adoption of those standards.