GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Air Freight Container
At the heart of air cargo handling is the Unit Load Device (ULD), the standardized container or pallet that consolidates freight for loading into aircraft holds.
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Source: https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/uld/
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Definition & Explanation
At the heart of air cargo handling is the Unit Load Device (ULD), the standardized container or pallet that consolidates freight for loading into aircraft holds. ULD designs are precisely matched to the fuselage cross-sections of specific aircraft types, enabling efficient use of available belly and main-deck space. Common configurations include the LD-3, widely used in the lower holds of widebody aircraft, and the LD-7 for wider cargo compartments. IATA sets the applicable standards; ownership and repatriation of ULDs are governed by interline agreements. Compared with loose-loaded freight, ULDs cut ground handling times significantly and reduce the risk of cargo damage.
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