ULD fleet managers have always faced serious challenges trying to make sure that every container is in the right place at the right time. The significant imbalance in trade flows around the world often leaves a surplus of ULDs in one place and a shortage in another. 

 As a result, ULDs have to be repositioned empty. This means that valuable cargo capacity is used to fly empty ULDs. VRR is looking to combat this through a foldable and stackable solution, differentiating its offering from other providers. The capacity of these collapsible ULDs is identical to regular ULDs. 

 This means that there is no compromise in the loadable capacity, but the user still gets the benefits of relocating ULDs more efficiently, decreasing the environmental impact of returning empty ULDs and maximising storage capacity as units can be folded and stacked.

“It is designed to address the global imbalance of ULDs, improve airport storage capacity and reduce the air cargo industry’s carbon footprint,” Ben Lakerveld, VRR’s Sales Manager, said. “Our solution is able to reduce this issue since the containers can be collapsed and stacked and put on one position rather than multiple positions in the aircraft.

“It takes just two people and only one minute. What’s more is that no tools or disassembly is required, he added. “As a result, more valuable cargo capacity becomes available which means less flights are required, translating into more efficiency and less emissions.”

READ: AAX collapsible container makes commercial debut

Flexibility and durability

With a product that can be collapsed, there are those who might be concerned about how durable they are. However, while acknowledging this concern, VRR is confident in its product, which has been in the market for a while. 

“We have strong partnerships with our customers, which actually tell us that the collapsible container is as durable as the normal container,” Lakerveld explained. “The containers have robust designs and simple mechanisms which ensure that its use is practical and durable.” 

READ: VRR announces distribution partnership with Tamagawa Aero Systems

Green design

VRR is aiming to be as transparent as possible when it comes to the environment. Back in the day, when they started the development of the first collapsible ULD, the environment was not the key driver for his project. But nowadays, sustainability and taking care of the planet are the main drivers. 

“The collapsible product fits our sustainable goals perfectly because they do contribute to lowering the emission of greenhouse gasses,” Lakerveld added. “AAX is perfect fit for aircraft like the B767F whereas our AAY container is perfect fit for narrowbody freighters such as the A321F and the B737F.”

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