Skypooling, the online ‘dating’ platform for the global exchange of Unit Load Devices (ULDs), is calling out to all airlines to report their overstocks via its system.
To speed up the search for the right ULDs, skypooling is now offering the function for emergency inquiries to all participants free of charge, a service which is otherwise available only to premium users.
Inquiries can be addressed to all users simultaneously. Leasing companies also have the option to offer their ULDs on the skypooling platform, so that users can contact the companies directly in an emergency, if they cannot find suitable matches.
Skypooling has seen a “significant increase” in the quantities of offered and demanded ULDs since the start of the coronavirus crisis. The value rose by almost 40% compared to the beginning of the year. Around 50 airlines currently offer and search for several thousand ULDs.
Christine Klemmer, General Manager of skypooling, said: “We are currently registering overstocks of ULDs in many places, but about every third entry on our platform is a search query.
“We are therefore calling out to all airlines to report their overstocks on skypooling. The more airlines take advantage of the service, the better the devices can be used for urgently needed freight. At the same time, storage costs for overstocks can also be reduced in some cases.”
Skypooling’s platform matches compatible requests and helps to ensure that the appropriate container and pallets are available for cargo and special flights despite the enormous reduction of worldwide air traffic and short-term flight schedule changes.
A new Lost & Found function has been made available on the platform since the beginning of April. This allows users, including ground handling agents, to post lost or found ULDs in order to return the loading equipment to its owners as quickly as possible.
Said a spokesperson: “Skypooling helps participating airlines in managing their containers and pallets more efficiently. Users of the platform provide information about ULD understocks or overstocks. This allows airlines to help each other balance container inventories to ensure benefits and savings for all participants.
“It is often the case that not enough ULD or loading capacities are available or ULDs and flights are not fully utilized. skypooling enables a simple exchange of this information and brings parties together who would otherwise not have found each other.
“By transporting less empty ULDs, airlines benefit from additional freight revenue, cost and fuel savings as well as lower CO2 emissions, which in turn are good for the environment.”
