---
title: "ULD (Unit Load Device)"
description: "A ULD (unit load device) is a device used to move cargo being shipped as airfreight. More specifically, a ULD is used to consolidate cargo to assist with the loading process onto an airplane."
language: en
canonical: https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/unit-load-device/
lifecycle: live
dateModified: 2026-08-20T06:44:14Z
topics:
  - "Air Freight"
---

# ULD (Unit Load Device)

A ULD (unit load device) is a device used to move cargo being shipped as airfreight. More specifically, a ULD is used to consolidate cargo to assist with the loading process onto an airplane.

## What is a ULD?

A ULD (unit load device) is a device used to move cargo being shipped as airfreight. More specifically, a ULD is used to consolidate cargo in order to assist with the loading process onto an airplane.

ULDs come in two forms: pallets and containers.

![Netted cargo pallets staged on an airport tarmac beside a WGA cargo Boeing 747, with DHL aircraft in the background.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/ynj1yl20/development/eefff02cbc2bc3f31d4c6f0e6c2cd551d450bba2-500x375.jpg)

*Pallets*

![An empty aluminum air cargo container (ULD) with an open front, metal floor and walls, and a documentation pouch on the side panel](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/ynj1yl20/development/57695f1f4c9de5b560e99a3a2c388bbbf5278665-335x282.jpg)

*Container*

### How will air cargo be consolidated?

Air cargo can be tendered loose to an airline, and the airline will load the air shipment into a ULD with other shipments.

Shippers can also book a ULD container and load the ULD themselves. Then a trucker at destination can pick up the entire ULD and deliver it to a warehouse to be deconsolidated.

Back to the [full glossary](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/).

---

*This is a markdown version of [https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/unit-load-device/](https://www.flex.thisisbrew.com/glossary/unit-load-device/) for AI/LLM consumption.*