For decades, ground handling and trailer loading solutions have been developed in isolation. But as the demand for speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency intensifies, logistics operators are searching for cohesive, interoperable systems that bridge every stage of cargo movement.

“As a trusted provider of road transport solutions, expanding into airside operations was a natural evolution,” Wouter Satijn, Chief Revenue Officer at Joloda Hydraroll, explained. “Today, we have multiple specialist divisions that allow us to operate as a single-source partner for our customers. By integrating these capabilities under one roof, we help companies streamline loading operations, reduce complexity, and maximise uptime.”

This end-to-end service offering, which spans powered cargo rollers, automated docks, modular air cargo systems, and more, addresses a major pain point for freight handlers, airlines, and 3PLs: the inefficiencies and delays caused by disconnected systems and multiple suppliers.

Automation at the core

Across freight terminals and logistics yards, automation is the key driver of operational improvement. Joloda Hydraroll has long been a pioneer in this space, and its technology is increasingly critical as the industry scales to meet booming e-commerce demand and global supply chain pressures.

“When it comes to reshaping operational efficiencies across roadside and airside systems, automation is having the biggest impact for freight handlers, airlines, and 3PLs — something that Joloda Hydraroll has specialised in for more than 40 years,” Satijn stated. “Whether it’s through Powered Cargo Rollers in the trailer or first-line air cargo handling facilities, automated systems help ensure shipments are delivered safely and securely.”

“In busy environments such as these, safety is paramount. Automating loading and unloading processes leads to increased efficiency to meet the rising demands of multimodal international freight without putting staff at risk,” he added.

Debut showcase

The company’s capabilities will be on full display at air cargo Europe, where Joloda Hydraroll is set to demonstrate its role as the only provider able to deliver both airside and landside handling solutions under one roof. It’s a debut that marks a new chapter for the firm — and a major development for logistics as a whole.

“The Joloda Hydraroll Group will showcase its position as a one-stop-shop loading solutions provider for the air cargo industry,” Satijn confirmed. “This is the first time we will do so — and we are proud to say we are the only business that can do so.”

“While airside and roadside operations have their unique challenges, it’s integral that they work seamlessly together. It’s a delicate piece of the logistical jigsaw where transport companies and air freight operators exchange thousands of tonnes of cargo per year. Without the right processes in place on both sides, things can quickly unravel — which is where we come in.”

Modularity

One of the biggest challenges in air freight today is the complexity surrounding unit load device (ULD) movements. These containers and pallets are the backbone of air cargo logistics, but they require careful handling to avoid bottlenecks.

“Our solutions are designed to help operators handle the increasing complexity and volume of ULD movements by applying automation and reducing the number of human touch points,” Satijn expressed. “This ultimately leads to quicker loading, unloading and processing, streamlining the entire operation and maximising uptime.”

Joloda’s systems also stand out for their customisability and modularity, making them ideal for high-traffic international hubs and smaller regional terminals alike. “Across our divisions, we have overhauled our air cargo handling range, standardising and modularising all our solutions for in-house manufacture at our UK facilities,” Satijn outlined. “This gives us full control over every stage of production — from the quality of materials and craftsmanship to the rigorous standards we uphold in delivering reliable, high-performance systems.”

This model also gives Joloda the flexibility to customise configurations for legacy infrastructure, constrained sites, or clients with specific operational preferences. “In doing so, we can also customise solutions to customers’ exact requirements, provide longevity, and represent a future-proof investment,” Satijn added.

Consultation and customisation

From the outset, Joloda Hydraroll takes a consultative approach. Rather than pushing standard solutions, the company collaborates with clients to identify pain points, optimise layouts, and design systems that can grow with their business.

“We start by carefully listening to and understanding the requirements of our clients, so that we can make recommendations as to which equipment will make their operations more efficient,” Satijn expressed. “As the OEM, we have full control over the specification and design of the system, so we can customise our solutions to each customer’s exact needs and set-up.”

“During the specification phase, we take a consultative approach, gathering detailed operational data such as load types, frequency, throughput volumes, available space, equipment interaction points, and long-term growth plans,” he continued. “By analysing process flows and operational challenges, we ensure the solution is not only tailored for today’s demands but scalable for tomorrow’s opportunities.”