ID-code identification
ULD codes are a unique identifier for each aircraft unit load device, consisting of a 3-letter prefix for type identification, a 4 or 5-digit serial number, and 2 or 3 characters for the owner of the ULD.
Format of a Unit Load Device (ULD) code
e.g., format of an equipment code: XXX 91068 KL.
| Equipment Type Code | Serial Number | Owner/Registrant |
|---|---|---|
| XXX: | 91068 | KL |
An international, standardized coding system
The standardized coding system introduced by IATA provides a clear and recognizable method for identifying ULD's, which helps to ensure smooth handling and transportation of cargo around the world. The three-letter prefix is crucial for determining the type, size, and shape of the ULD, and the information is used to make sure that the ULD is compatible with the aircraft and suitable for the type of cargo it will contain.
The three-letter prefix
The first three letters of the ULD code play a key role in identifying the type, size, and shape of the ULD, which is essential information for determining the compatibility of the ULD with the aircraft and the type of cargo it can contain. This information is crucial for ensuring smooth handling and transportation of cargo around the world.
The three-letter prefix works as follows:
- 1st letter represents the type of the equipment
- 2nd letter represents the base size of the equipment
- 3rd letter represents the equipment contour or the pallet’s restraint system
e.g.
| Type | Base size | Contour |
| A | K | E |
| Certified Aircraft Container | 1534 mm × 1562 mm / 60.4 inch × 61.5 inch |  |
| 1. Types | 2. Base Sizes | 3. Contours | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The first letter of the code’s prefix describes the equipment type | The second letter of the code’s prefix describes the base dimensions of the equipment | The third letter of the ULD code's prefix provides information on the contour or shape of the ULD, which is designed to fit the specific space available in the aircraft. The contour is determined based on the position of the ULD in the aircraft (upper or lower deck) and is designed to maximize the cargo volume that can be carried. Additionally, for pallets and nets, the third letter of the prefix also indicates the restraint system used to classify the unit. | |
| A | Certified aircraft container | 2235 mm × 3175 mm / 88 inch × 125 inch | |
| B | Certified winged aircraft pallet | 2235 mm × 2743 mm / 88 inch × 108 inch | |
| D | Non-certified aircraft container | ||
| F | Non-certified aircraft pallet | ||
| G | Non-certified aircraft pallet net | 2438 mm × 6058 mm / 96 inch × 238.5 inch (20 ft) | |
| H | Certified horse stalls | ||
| J | Thermal non-structural igloo | ||
| K | Certified cattle stalls | 1534 mm × 1562 mm / 60.4 inch × 61.5 inch | |
| L | Certified multi-contour aircraft container | 1534 mm × 3175 mm / 60.4 inch × 125 inch | |
| M | Thermal non-certified aircraft container | 2438 mm × 3175 mm / 96 inch × 125 inch | |
| N | Certified aircraft pallet net | 1562 mm × 2438 mm / 61.5 × 96 inch | |
| P | Certified aircraft pallet | 1198 mm × 1534 mm / 47 inch × 60.4 inch | |
| Q | Certified hardened aircraft container | 1534 mm × 2438 mm / 60.4 × 96 inch | |
| R | Thermal certified aircraft container | 2438 mm × 4978 mm / 96 × 196 inch (16 ft) | |
| S | Certified multi-modal air/surface container | 1562 mm × 2235 mm / 61.5 mm × 88 inch | |
| U | Non-structural container (igloo) | ||
| V | Automobile transport equipment | ||
| W | Certified ULD for aircraft engine transport | ||
| X | Reserved for airline internal use | ||
| Y | Reserved for airline internal use | ||
| Z | Reserved for airline internal use | ||