# Unit Load Device (ULD)

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> A Unit Load Device (ULD) is an airworthiness-certified container or pallet designed to consolidate air cargo into a single module that fits the contoured floor of an aircraft hold and locks into place mechanically.

A Unit Load Device (ULD) is an airworthiness-certified container or pallet designed to consolidate air cargo into a single module that fits the contoured floor of an aircraft hold and locks into place mechanically. ULDs are classified by type and size: LD3 containers are standard in lower-deck widebody positions, while LD8 containers and PMC pallets serve main-deck configurations. Ownership sits with airlines, pooling operators, or leasing companies, and each unit carries a traceable identification tag. Unlike industrial or warehouse pallets, ULDs must hold a valid airworthiness approval and are factored directly into every flight's weight-and-balance calculation. For ground handlers, the key benefit is speed: moving entire ULDs rather than individual pieces cuts aircraft turnaround times substantially.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_load_device](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_load_device)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Unit Load Device (ULD) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 116 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_load_device |

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