Air Cargo Containers: Types, Features, & Benefits

Transportation plays a crucial role in business efficiency by ensuring efficient delivery of goods and optimising supply chain operations. If you want to satisfy your customers and enhance your brand image, you must ensure your products’ safe and timely delivery. Storing your products in air cargo containers and delivering them through air transport is the most reliable and fastest mode of transportation. 

These containers have been the major sources of revolutionising the shipping industry. They have expanded the reach of businesses by shipping the products to any country worldwide.  

Are you wondering how to leverage these air freight containers and streamline your business’s supply chains? This blog will discuss everything you need to know about aircraft cargo containers, including their types, features, benefits, and market outlook.

Understanding Air Cargo Containers

Air cargo containers are also called unit load devices, aeroplane cargo containers, air freight containers, etc. These containers are solid vessels made up of a storage unit that conforms to the inside of the aircraft. They are used to hold loose freight that is to be shipped through air. 

It is important to opt for robust and solid lightweight frame structures of the containers that are durable and can handle harsh environments. Contrarily, opting for a low-quality container can damage your goods. Air freight containers are of three categories:

• Air Cargo Pallets – These containers are usually flat structures supporting cargo goods. Cargo is kept above them, and this process is called palletising. They have a low profile and are robust; thus, they are used to carry cargo or support a container. However, not every container uses pallets because they add weight to the cargo and reduce the volume.
• Lower Deck Containers – These containers are designed to fit inside the aircraft. The flight’s upper deck carries passengers, whereas the containers are placed on the lower deck.
• Box-Type Containers – Also known as cube containers, these are used for general-purpose transportation. The standard size for dry closed containers is usually 8 feet and 6 inches, and they are created with an extended height of 9 feet and 6 inches.         

Types of Air Cargo Containers

Learn about some of the different aircraft cargo containers to make an informed decision and choose the best one as per your requirements –

1. General Cargo

These are the basic types of containers. Their shapes and sizes might differ, but the material used to construct them is the same. They are designed with aircraft compatibility in mind. The major benefits of these containers are that they make the loading process easy and quick, offer the best cargo protection, are lightweight and durable, and offer maximum space.

2. Collapsible Air Cargo Containers  

Many businesses find it challenging to store empty containers. This is where collapsible containers come to the rescue. Storing and relocating them is very easy as they can be folded and stacked when empty, providing convenience.

3. Cool Air Freight Container

Many companies want to import or export food or pharmaceuticals to maintain adequate temperatures so products don’t get spoiled. Hence, using a cool air freight container can help, as it keeps the products refrigerated, so you can ship your perishable items without changing their taste, colour, or odour.

4. Fireproof

A lot of times, you need to export or import electronic devices, and for that, it is important to use a fireproof aircraft cargo container. It is very risky to carry electronic gadgets in an aeroplane, as carrying large numbers of lithium-based batteries can cause fire. In heat or at an inappropriate temperature, these batteries can self-ignite, and unfortunately, the fire suppression systems on planes can’t handle lithium fires. 

Thus, if you frequently export such products, you must opt for fireproof containers, which can contain a fire for six hours. This means that the pilot will have enough time to land the plane in case of a fire emergency.

5. Customised

Sometimes, huge machines or goods need to be shipped, and you may not be able to ship them  through general cargo. Therefore, you can opt for a company like Shiprocket CargoX that allows you to customise your cargo according to its size, shape, and volume.

Key Features and Specifications

Some of the major features and specifications of air cargo include-

• They are usually made up of sheet aluminium or polycarbonate materials.
• Air cargo adheres to standardised dimensions so that easy loading can be done without damaging the products.
• Every container has unique IATA codes, such as AKN, PMC, AKE, etc., to facilitate identification.
• Different cargo containers are available for varied uses, such as transporting animals like horses, important documents, medical supplements, perishable goods, valuable products, and radiopharmaceuticals.

Certified Vs. Uncertified Containers

So, what’s the difference between certified and uncertified containers? Having this information will help you decide which one to opt for when shipping your cargo –

1. Certified Containers

The OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) designs and tests these containers according to the TSO C90 requirements, and the relevant aviation authority approves the results. Then, the testing team issues an approval letter to the ULD manufacturer, authorising the approved ULD to be fitted with a TSO plate.  

The certification process is relatively lengthy, as it has to pass through different departments: the manufacturer, the appropriate authority, and the Civil Aviation Authority.  

The certification states that these containers are designed to withstand extreme conditions during the flight, such as weather and turbulence. The major benefit of using these containers in shipment is that they can be loaded into any aircraft as long as they are compatible with loading and restraint systems. 

Regardless of the manufacturer, all aircraft’s main deck compartments require the use of certified cargo. Furthermore, Airbus’ aircraft only accept certified ULDs in lower deck holds.

2. Non-Certified Containers

As the name suggests, these containers are not certified and do not undergo the process like the certified containers. The aviation industry does not assess its performance standards. Boeing aircraft generally do not require the use of certified ULD in lower deck holds. However, it is important to know that these containers must also get approval from the airlines before being loaded.      

Advantages of Air Freight Containers

Using air freight containers is essential as they ensure that your products are safe and reach the destination in the desired condition. They come in diverse shapes and sizes, from 6 inches to 45 inches. In fact, you can also customise the containers according to your needs. 

But why do you need an air freight container? Let’s dive in to learn about its importance-

1. Flexibility 

The major benefit of using air freight containers is that they facilitate maximum transportation flexibility. Let’s understand this with the help of an example: You are receiving cargo from the US in a standard certified container. Now, this container that came from an aircraft can be shifted to the chassis of your truck. You won’t need to shift the goods from one container to another.

This will help save a lot of time, labour, and money. Thanks to these containers, the same container can be moved on the road, water, and rail tracks. 

2. Cost Saving

Transportation flexibility that comes with the use of ULDs helps save a lot of money.  Also, the same container can be moved across borders, so you will not have to spend anything on international container changes. 

3. Versatility

Another benefit of air freight containers is that you can use the same container to carry different products unless they are huge or require temperature control. 

As mentioned above, you can opt for cargo containers with refrigerators for perishable products or pharmaceuticals, and for huge machines or logs, etc., you will have to opt for customised ones; all other goods can be transported in general containers.

4. Security

The primary reason for using aircraft cargo containers is safety and security of goods. The containers are built in a way that makes their lock system strong enough to withstand extreme transport conditions. You can be sure of the safety of your goods if you pack them properly in certified containers. They protect your goods from theft, deterioration, and damage. 

These containers use butyl rubber, hot bitumen (asphalt), and plastic sheets that prevent liquid goods from spilling. If your goods are lost or stolen, you can easily track and retrieve them with the help of container-tracking technologies like GPS, IoT, RFID and blockchain. 

5. Affordable Insurance Premiums

The insurance premium is low because the time taken to transport goods to the destination is less. This is because the possibility of your goods being damaged or lost is minimal compared to other modes of transportation, including the ocean, road, or railways.

Market Forecast for Air Cargo Containers

The global air cargo market size has increased by $1.82 billion in 2023 and is expected to rise with a CAGR of 7.04% in the forecast period, reaching  $2.76 billion. The air cargo container market plays a vital role in the logistics sector as it moves goods seamlessly and quickly, saving time, money and manpower. 

This market is influenced by many factors, and one of the primary ones is the tremendous growth in global trade and eCommerce. With the significant rise in international trade and online shopping, the demand for air cargo containers has also increased, which will emphasise the use of standardised containers. Other factors that are affecting the air cargo container industry are technology and sustainability.

RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) and IoT (Internet of Things) solutions are being used in air cargo containers to provide real-time information to the shipper and receiver about the location and security of the shipped goods. This trend also applies to the broader industry goal of making the supply chain industry more efficient and transparent.

People nowadays are concerned about environmental issues, so manufacturers are trying to create eco-friendly containers.

Sizes and Dimensions

Here comes another important aspect, which is knowing the different air cargo container sizes-

I. Common ULD Container Specifications

1. LD1 Container

IATA Code: AKC container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 92 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – Around 173 cubic feet (4.9 CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 3501 lbs (1,588kg)

2. LD2 Container

IATA Code: DPE contoured container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 61.5 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – Approximately 120 cubic feet (3.4 CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 2700 lbs (1,225kg) circa

3. LD3 Container

IATA Code: AKE container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 79 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches
• Volume Capacity – 155 cubic feet (4.39CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 3,500 lbs (1,588kg)

4. LD6 Container

IATA Code: ALF ULD container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 160 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 314 cubic feet (8.9CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 7,000 lbs (3,175kg)

5. LD8 Container

IATA Code: DQF

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches
• Volume Capacity – About 245 cubic feet (6.93CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 5,401 lbs (2,450kg)

6. LD11 Container

IATA Code: ALP rectangular container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 262 cubic feet (7.4CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 7,002 lbs (4,170kg)

II. Basic Air Freight Pallet Specifications

1. PLA Half Pallet

IATA Cod: PLA half pallet with net

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 250 cubic feet (7.1CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 6,999 lbs (3,175kg)

2. PMC/P6P/96” Pallet

IATA Code: P6P 10-ft flat pallet with net

Dimensions: 

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 96 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 747 cubic feet (21.2CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 15,000 lbs (6,804kg)

3. LD7/88” Pallet

IATA Code: P1P flat pallet with net, PAG pallet

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 88 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 747 cubic feet (21.2CBM)
• Maximum Gross Weight – 15,000 lbs (6,804kg)

III. Specialised Air Cargo Container Specifications

1. LD-3 Temperature-Controlled Containers

IATA Code: RKN contoured cool container

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches 
• Length – 79 inches 
• Width – 60.4 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 115 cubic feet (3.26CBM) circa
• Maximum Gross Weight – 3,500 lbs (1,558kg)

2. Insulated LD-9 Container

IATA Code: RAP cool container on P1P base

Dimensions:

• Height – 64 inches
• Length – 125 inches 
• Width – 88 inches 
• Volume Capacity – 339 cubic feet (9.6CBM) 
• Maximum Gross Weight – 10,198 lbs (4,626kg) circa

Choosing the Suitable Container

It is essential to know what to look for when choosing a container. These include –

• Shipping Container Sizes and Dimensions – You must check that the shipping container is of standard size and capacity.
• Container Condition: New Vs Used – Old shipping containers are available in the market at low prices. Based on your product type, budget and frequency of usage, you can decide if you want to opt for a used or new container
• Container Types – Different types of containers such as fireproof, customised, general, for animals, etc. are available. Choose which one is suitable for your goods.
• Durable – The container should be durable so that it can withstand the impact of heavy weight, turbulence, and tension created by adjacent containers.
• Security – The containers you select should have robust lock systems to protect goods against any theft and damage.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, air freight is a crucial part of the global economy. It facilitates trade, supports diverse industries, and fosters economic development by providing efficient transportation solutions for goods of all types. 

Air freight containers are essential tools that enable the safe and effective transport of commodities between continents. In addition to improving operational effectiveness, their creative designs and standardised handling procedures significantly increase the integrity of air cargo services. Moreover, the container tracking system offers many advantages that improve the effectiveness and safety of logistical processes.

Shiprocket CargoX is an air freight company that makes cross-border B2B shipments seamless with real-time tracking. They enable you to track your shipments in real-time to ensure better visibility and better structuring of the transportation process. 

CargoX provides you with a quick quotation, making shipping planning faster and more effective. To guarantee timely delivery, the products you want to ship are picked up for shipping within 24 hours after booking.

With CargoX, you will also get an extra layer of security by getting comprehensive insurance coverage that ranges from minimum protection to premium plans. Premium plans offer extensive coverage for high-value shipments. Moreover, this air freight company uses unparalleled packing methods, from well-planned and organised labels to robust packing procedures.