SkyCell and ACL Airshop Partner to Bring IoT-Powered Visibility and Control to ULD Management

April 1, 2025

In today’s fast-paced air cargo environment, keeping track of every unit load device (ULD) is critical for smooth operations. Every day, airlines contend with the challenge of displaced ULDs—industry estimates suggest that about 5% of ULDs are misplaced at any given time. It’s clear that the industry is in need of proven digitalization solutions.

Recognizing this issue, SkyCell and ACL Airshop have come together in a five-year collaboration that brings advanced IoT technology directly into the heart of ULD management.
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Bringing intelligence to ULD tracking

With the largest IoT network, SkyCell systems in place in more than 250 airports, and a proven track record in monitoring over 100,000 ULDs, SkyCell’s ULD Tracking solution tackles these inefficiencies head-on. The technology integrates seamlessly into existing airline systems, providing end-to-end visibility and control with continuous, real-time data that minimizes errors and streamlines the tracking process.

This real-time insight is essential in an industry where even minor disruptions can cascade into significant operational challenges. For operators, knowing the precise location of every ULD—whether it’s indoor or outdoor—enables proactive decision-making that cuts down on both time and expenses.

Nico Ros, co-founder and CTO of SkyCell, explains:

‍“Reliability and efficiency are critical in air cargo logistics. By integrating our IoT technology with ACL Airshop’s fleet, we’re enabling real-time tracking, smarter asset utilization, and fewer misplaced ULDs. With an easy to implement IoT form factor backed by 13 years of experience tracking pharma air freight, we’re bringing a new level of visibility and control to ULD management, helping ACL Airshop and its customers operate more efficiently.”

Supporting the future of air cargo logistics

ACL Airshop is a global leader in ULD leasing, management, and logistics, playing a vital role in ensuring that air cargo operations remain efficient and well-coordinated. With a network spanning key hubs across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, the company manages approximately 110,000 ULDs at any given time.

Their expertise in handling ULD logistics at scale makes them a critical player in global air freight, and their commitment to innovation aligns seamlessly with SkyCell’s technology-driven approach. By integrating real-time IoT tracking into ACL Airshop’s operations, this new partnership is set to redefine how their ULD fleets are monitored and utilized worldwide.

‍“Enhancing visibility and asset utilization is key to optimizing ULD operations, and this partnership enables us to do exactly that. By integrating SkyCell’s tracking technology, ACL Airshop will provide our customers with greater reliability in localization, reduced losses, and improved fleet utilization. This means fewer misplaced assets, a faster and more efficient operation, and ultimately, lower operational costs for airlines and cargo operators. SkyCell’s expertise in pharma air freight monitoring, combined with their commitment to continuous innovation, ensures we are implementing a proven and trusted solution – setting a new standard for transparency and efficiency in ULD management.”
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said Bernhard Kindelbacher, CEO of ACL Airshop.
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Take control of your ULD fleet

By uniting ACL Airshop’s extensive experience in ULD leasing and management with SkyCell’s state-of-the-art tracking technology, this partnership aims to bring more clarity and reliability to the air cargo industry.

If you’re interested in learning how we can support your ULD operations with our tailored hardware, software, and services, please reach out today to our dedicated airlines team.