ACL Airshop is embracing a bold digital transformation strategy, combining high-tech innovation with tailored local solutions to redefine how unit load devices (ULDs) are tracked, managed, and utilised across global airfreight networks.
At the heart of this transformation is a new partnership with Swiss-based SkyCell, aiming to bring next-generation tracking and analytics to ACL Airshop’s expansive ULD fleet.
“Through our exciting new partnership with SkyCell, ACL Airshop is taking ULD management to the next level, delivering smarter, faster, and more connected solutions for cargo carriers,” said Harold Elfring, director of IT systems, who co-led the initiative alongside Jos Jacobsen, chief commercial officer (CCO). “By integrating their trusted solutions with ACL’s ULD management systems, we’re creating a fully smart, IoT-enabled ULD network that offers real-time communication and control,” Elfring added.
According to Elfring and Jacobsen, the SkyCell-enabled technology will bring the precision of pharmaceutical logistics into broader cargo operations, delivering features such as automated digital messaging for ULD leases, advanced analytics, and instant alerts—transforming ULD management into a more proactive and transparent process.
“For airlines, this means end-to-end visibility, better asset utilisation, and greater confidence in cargo movement. The digitised and automated workflows offered by more precise geolocation will minimise manual intervention, reduce errors, and enhance visibility to stakeholders, saving teams valuable time and resources,” the pair explained.
Asset visibility
This evolution builds on ACL Airshop’s existing digital ecosystem, anchored by its ULD management system and mobile tracking solutions.
“ACL Airshop’s ULD management system serves as a centralised, connected platform that integrates securely with other systems via API—creating an ecosystem of ULD-related data for real-time visibility,” Elfring said.
The firm is deploying LoRa tracking technology across its fleet and enhancing mobile capabilities through the FindMyULD™ app, which now forms part of the company’s Localisation+ initiative. This move gives customers direct access to ULD locations and digital control from their devices.
“The FindMyULD™ app puts key ULD management functions directly in users’ hands—allowing customers to check stock, send IATA messages, and submit MRO requests on the go,” Elfring noted. “It’s optimised for on-the-go access, with push notifications, offline functionality, and a user interface designed for fast decision-making in the field.”
Integrity and interoperability
To ACL Airshop, it is essential to have a proactive, technology-driven approach to ensure data interoperability and standardisation across the digital tracking ecosystem. By leveraging an integration platform as a service (iPaaS), the company enables secure, scalable connections between its ULD management system and various airfreight systems, facilitating seamless data exchange across multiple stakeholders.
To further streamline operations, the company also provides access to ground handling agents (GHAs) at specific stations, allowing them to digitise manual, time-consuming tasks.
“ACL Airshop takes a proactive, multi-layered approach to data security,” Elfring said. “We work with a network of trusted IT partners, including SkyCell, who are ISO/IEC 27001 certified, ensuring compliance with globally recognised standards.”
The company’s approach also includes secure API connections, encryption protocols, and a strong internal contingency and continuity framework.
“Automated digital messaging enhances visibility into short-term ULD leases and promotes consistency in data across the network,” he explained.
Customer-driven KPIs and ROI focus
Despite the heavy investment in digital technologies, ACL maintains a pragmatic, customer-oriented view on measuring success.
“The most important metric for us is customer satisfaction,” Elfring said. “We track progress using strategic KPIs focused on operational efficiency, asset optimisation, and data-driven decision-making.”
Key indicators include the reduction of manual tasks, enhanced ULD visibility, improved utilisation, and man-hours saved. Every digital project, he explained, is tied to a clear business case aimed at operational improvement and customer value.
“With a long-standing focus on innovation—from launching a web-based ULD management system in 2004 to the award-winning FindMyULD app in 2018—we prioritise technologies that deliver measurable value,” Elfring said, referencing previous innovations such as the FindMyULD app and the company’s original web-based ULD platform.
Localisation with global scope
The scale of ACL Airshop’s operations—spanning over 55 locations across six continents—demands not only robust digital infrastructure but also thoughtful regional adaptation.
“In a global network like ours, each region and sometimes each airport comes with its own regulatory frameworks, infrastructure abilities, and operational realities,” said Wes Tucker, chief operating officer (COO). “We address this by combining globally standardised processes with local customisation.”
The company tailors ULD leasing and management to meet specific requirements, whether for regular airline partners or one-off charters in challenging regions.
“Local teams are empowered within clear global objectives, balancing agility with accountability,” Tucker added. “We maintain standardised operating procedures aligned with IATA, FAA, and EASA, but allow flexibility for local adaptations.”
Digital tools such as ULD Control™ reinforce this standardisation while offering real-time visibility into key performance areas.
“ULD Control™ features built-in stock levels, thresholds, and configurable alerts, as well as KPI dashboards for turnaround times, damage ratios, and compliance,” Elfring noted. “When paired with our SkyCell tech, stock accuracy can reach up to 99.5 percent.”
Partnerships
Operating in diverse regulatory environments requires more than just internal systems—it demands collaboration with stakeholders on the ground. That’s why ACL Airshop actively cultivates partnerships with local authorities and service providers to ensure its solutions meet regional standards.
“ACL Airshop values strong local partnerships as a core element of its global success,” said Tucker. “We work closely with airport authorities, ground handlers, and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with regional airfreight standards and to tailor our services to local needs.”
These relationships not only keep ACL Airshop in step with evolving regulations but also enhance its ability to roll out localised digital solutions and infrastructure upgrades more effectively.
“Collaborations allow us to stay ahead of regulatory changes, streamline operations, and deliver localised solutions backed by global expertise,” Tucker added.
Global standards
While flexibility and scale are key pillars of ACL Airshop’s leasing model, maintaining quality and safety is equally critical—especially when it comes to ULD repair and certification. The company has built a worldwide network of FAA- and EASA Part 145-certified repair stations, ensuring compliance and consistency wherever its operations take place.
“ACL Airshop operates a network of certified repair stations across the USA, Europe, the Middle East, and Japan, all managed in accordance with FAA and EASA Part 145 standards,” explained Tucker.
These stations operate under centralised quality management systems with rigorous documentation and regular audits. Trained and certified technicians work on-site, supported by a robust training and recertification framework. This ensures the company meets both international standards and local regulatory requirements.
“Digital reporting and shared quality data allow for standardisation across regions, while still allowing local teams to operate effectively within their regulatory context,” Tucker noted.
“We focus on local hiring, effective onboarding, and the continuous development of skills and knowledge of our employees,” added Kinga Onak, people business partner at ACL Airshop. “Our training programmes for operational staff are designed to ensure that staff across the world are aligned on ULD handling, regulatory compliance, digital tools, and customer service standards.”
