FAQ's
International Air Freight
At Express Cargo, we make shipping simple and transparent. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers.
Does Express Cargo offer international freight services?
Express Cargo primarily arranges freight movements throughout New Zealand, including the domestic transport of import and export cargo. With extensive experience working alongside international airlines, air freight providers, and sea freight forwarders, we can also recommend trusted international freight forwarding partners to help meet your global shipping requirements.
What is a Unit Load Device (ULD)?
A Unit Load Device (ULD) is an aircraft-approved cargo container or pallet designed to fit the curved interior of an aircraft cargo hold.
ULDs:
• Improve loading efficiency
• Protect cargo during flight
• Meet international aviation safety standards
What types of cargo containers are most commonly used for international freight in New Zealand, and are larger containers also used on international flights?
The most common container used on international flights to and from New Zealand is the LD3 container, also known as an AKE.
LD3 containers are used on:
• Boeing 777
• Boeing 787 Dreamliner
They are ideal for general air freight, consolidated shipments, and commercial cargo.
Some wide-body aircraft also use larger lower-deck containers, such as:
• LD6 containers (double-width units)
• Full-width lower-deck containers for higher-volume freight
These are typically assigned by the airline based on aircraft configuration and cargo requirements
Are pallets used for international air freight, and what types of aircraft pallets are commonly used?
Lower-deck aircraft pallets are commonly used on wide-body aircraft operating international services to and from New Zealand, including Boeing 777 and Boeing 787 aircraft.
The most commonly used pallet types include:
• PMC (P6P) Pallet
• Industry-standard Lower Deck Pallet
• Dimensions: 96” x 125” (244 cm x 318 cm)
• Constructed from high-strength aluminium
• Used extensively on Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft
• Suitable for heavy, dense, or consolidated freight PAG / P1P Pallet
• Slightly smaller lower-deck pallet configuration
• Used depending on aircraft type and loading position
• Often selected for freight that does not require a full PMC footprint
How is freight secured on a pallet, and when are pallets used instead of containers?
Freight is:
• Loaded directly onto the aluminum pallet (“PMC board”)
• Secured using certified aircraft cargo nets
• Built to strict height, weight, and contour limits to fit the aircraft hold
• Locked into the aircraft’s cargo restraint system. This ensures the freight remains stable and secure throughout the flight.
Aircraft pallets are typically used for:
• Oversized freight that will not fit into LD3 or LD6 containers
• Jet engines and engine modules
• Heavy, dense shipments
• Irregularly shaped cargo
• Time-critical or charter-style consignments
The choice between a container and a pallet is determined by aircraft type, load characteristics, and airline loading rules.
Can customers request freight to move on a PMC pallet?
Specific pallet types cannot be guaranteed, as loading decisions are ultimately made by the airline based on:
• Aircraft configuration
• Weight and balance requirements
• ULD availability
However, we plan and present freight to maximise the likelihood of palletised uplift where required.
Can customers choose whether freight goes in a container or on a pallet?
No. Cargo configuration is determined by:
• Aircraft type
• Airline loading rules
• Freight dimensions and weight
Our role is to ensure your shipment is loaded in the most suitable and compliant way
Is international air freight safe?
Absolutely. All cargo containers and pallets are:
• Certified aircraft components
• Locked into aircraft restraint systems
• Handled under international aviation safety regulations
This ensures cargo remains secure throughout the journey.
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