If you transport any type of cargo by air, you are required by the civil aviation authorities to use a Unit Load Device (ULD). ULDs maximise an aircraft’s cargo space and ensure your cargo will not damage the plane. They also protect your cargo, help keep track of its location and ownership, and make loading and unloading much easier. ULDs come as containers or pallet/net combinations, and they can convey any type of cargo, from express mail and perishable goods to horses and hi-tech equipment.

A Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) nearly always requires cargo to be transported in a certified Unit Load Device (ULD). If a ULD is certified, the CAA knows that it is airworthy. In other words, it’s tough enough to handle anything that might occur during a flight. The CAA wants to be sure that the ULD won’t endanger the aircraft’s structure and systems. At VRR, we design and manufacture every one of our ULDs to comply with the regulations set by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

A Unit Load Device is considered an aircraft part, so it can only be manufactured or repaired by an approved manufacturer. VRR has been creating perfect-fit solutions for the air cargo industry for five decades, and we’re certified to design, manufacture and repair air cargo-related equipment under EASA requirements. We have the finest designers, engineers and technicians in the field, which is why we excel in precision engineering, ULD certification and high-tech manufacturing. Our rigorous standards are held in high regard throughout the aviation industry.

Our Dutch roots explain our no-nonsense approach to business. Customers appreciate our practical attitude and our readiness to invest time in understanding their logistical needs. Come to us and we’ll get to know your company, preferences and priorities before translating your specifications into a perfect-fit ULD.

Due to the wealth of expertise at VRR, we often find ourselves in the role of advisor and partner in development. Our highly skilled staff keep up to date with industry developments, take an active part in regulatory meetings and industry conferences and forums, and share knowledge with others.

We don’t put a price list on our website because every customer has different requirements. That means every ULD we produce (even standard ULDs) can be modified in accordance with your logistical needs. Take, for example, the ALP container. We can deliver a relatively simple container with a cover door, or we can create a much more complex ULD with solid doors, forklift pockets and shelving. Let one of our advisors know your requirements, and you’ll receive a customised quote for your ideal ULD.

Unlike other Unit Load Devices available on the market, our air cargo products can only be bought. We don’t lease because we believe that owning your equipment is a much better way to invest your capital. Purchasing a quality Unit Load Device from VRR delivers a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which give you better value in the long run. That’s money you can spend on other opportunities.

Simply visit our contact page and fill in the contact form. That’s our starting point for creating your perfect-fit ULD. Tell us briefly your logistical needs and the type of ULD you’re looking for. One of our advisors will get back to you promptly to ask more about the problems that you’re experiencing and the solutions that would make your life easier. We’ll also ask about your company, preferences and requirements. The more you tell us, the better we can help you. Once we have enough information, we’ll provide you with a quote.

Don’t worry. If you made a product request through our online contact form, we’ll contact you first to clarify the details of your request before anything else happens.

VRR provides a one-year warranty for defects or non-conformities that result from faulty design, materials or workmanship. For more information, please ask for our general conditions (Orgalime S2012).

There’s no standard lead time for producing a ULD at VRR because every ULD is made according to a customer’s unique requirements. Even the same container type can have different lead times because one may have relatively simple modifications and another may much more complex modifications. The lead time will be stated in your customised quote.

If you’re not sure what type of ULD would best suit your logistical needs, we’re happy to advise. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in translating customer wishes into product specifications. By combining your logistical and operational knowledge with our industry expertise and creativity, you’ll end up with the right ULD. This may be a standard solution with some minor changes or a fully customised solution.

ULDs are built to withstand extreme conditions. Even so, they can get damaged. Once that happens, they’re at risk of being declared ‘not airworthy’. However, you can improve your ULDs’ performance and lifespan by using the services of our certified repair facility in Amsterdam. It repairs and maintains the following products for a variety of airlines, operators and manufacturers, regardless of OEM:

• Lower and main-deck baggage and cargo containers
• Air cargo pallets
• Horse stables for air transport
• Temperature-controlled cool containers
• Car transporters
• Catering equipment (trolleys and galley inserts)

Get in contact via repair@vrr.aero or +31 (0)20 659 97 77

The five-stage process outlined below explains how VRR creates a fully customised ULD. However, if a standard solution that requires only minor changes is ordered, it won’t be subject to every aspect of the process:

1. Design & development: You receive a technical design proposal and a quote – with no obligation to purchase—based on your specific requirements. Once accepted, we start to find ways to improve the ULD itself and its production.
2. Engineering: We work on aspects such as operating parameters, external dimensions, and material and maintenance requirements to ensure your ULD meets your needs and aviation industry standards. The more complex the ULD, the more complex the engineering stage.
3. Certification: Your ULD is put through a rigorous certification process to ensure it meets the highest standards. First, we get design & production organisation approval (APDOA & POA). Next, we submit the designs to the relevant authority for approval as an airworthy product.
4. Manufacture: Once your ULD design is certified, we begin manufacturing. We employ lean manufacturing principles and have access to a well-developed supply chain. We also adopt flexible production methods, so that we can react to predicted and unpredicted changes.
5. After-sales services: Our service doesn’t stop as soon as we deliver your newly created ULD. We stay in touch with you to ensure you’re satisfied with your product and to offer any necessary support.