Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV)
Maximise Terminal Efficiency and Capacity
Facing the challenge of efficiently managing limited space and growing cargo volumes? In ULD ETV storage systems, the Lödige Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV) reliably automates vertical and horizontal ULD transfers, optimising your available storage space and enabling smooth, IATA-compliant cargo handling throughout your terminal.
Boost efficiency in your air cargo operations
The Lödige Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV) is a fully automated, rail-guided storage and retrieval system designed to transport Unit Load Devices (ULDs) vertically and horizontally within air cargo terminals. Capable of reaching multiple storage levels rapidly and precisely, the ETV ensures efficient utilisation of vertical space and improves overall handling performance. Integration into the Cargo Professional Suite enables real-time control, automated operations, and seamless interaction with other terminal systems.
Benefits of Lödige’s Elevating Transfer Vehicle
Designed for innovative air cargo terminals, our solutions provide measurable benefits by improving efficiency, ensuring safety and supporting seamless process integration.
Proven Features & Options
The Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV) comes with a set of proven features and optional enhancements. These ensure reliable performance in daily cargo operations and allow flexible adaptation to specific terminal layouts and process requirements.
Features / Options
Safety and Control Features
- 5 ft, 10 ft WEP & NEP, 15 ft NEP, 20 ft NEP
- ULD overhang detection via contour frame
- Obstacle detection scanners for path safety
- Energy-absorbing buffers at both travel ends
- Emergency stop circuits and interlock logic: Movement is blocked unless ULD is positioned correctly and cabin doors are closed
- Friction drive extractors for integration with non-powered storage decks
- Operator cabin with Fan/Heater, seat
- Safety features including sensors, buffers, push-button, control interlocks
Technical Data
Please note: The technical data provided represents typical configurations. Actual implementations always depend on specific project requirements and site condition.
Parameter | 5 ft WEP | 10 ft WEP | 10 ft NEP | 15 ft NEP | 20 ft NEP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1,600 kg | 6,800 kg | 6,800 kg | 6,800 kg | 13,600 kg |
| Length | 6,515 mm | 9,500 mm | 9,000 mm | 9,000 mm | 10,500 mm |
| Width | 2,100 mm | 2,900 mm | 3,400 mm | 5,400 mm | 7,200 mm |
| Height / Elevating height | project-specific | ||||
| Driving speed | up to 1.5 m/s | ||||
| Driving acceleration | 0.3 m/s² | ||||
| Conveying speed | 0.3 m/s | ||||
| Elevating speed | up to 0.5 m/s | ||||
| Type of hoist | Cable pulley system | ||||
Automation Degree
Elevating Transfer Vehicles (ETVs) are fully automated, rail-guided systems engineered for high precision and reliability in multi-level storage environments. Integrated into the Cargo Professional Suite, they support autonomous ULD transfers, real-time monitoring, and optimal route management, enhancing terminal efficiency and ensuring safe, IATA-compliant cargo operations.
Tools & Downloads
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Airport Logistics Solutions
Brochure (07-2025)
Elevating Transfer Vehicle successfully in operation
Proven in practice, our solutions demonstrate their value worldwide every day.
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Related Products
Discover Equipment for ULD Handling
Explore related products that support every step of ULD handling in your terminal. From acceptance to storage and onward transfer, these solutions ensure efficiency, safety and smooth integration into your cargo flow.
Transfer Vehicles travel on rails in terminal aisles, linking workstations, storage and cold zones. They move ULDs fast, precise and safely across levels.
Storage Decks are where ULDs are kept in racks. This product is strong, friction-driven and scalable. It is designed to buffer cargo smoothly until it is needed.
Cool Rooms keep ULDs between +2°C and +25°C. Reliable, integrated cold storage for pharma, perishables and sensitive cargo.
Powered Roller Decks move ULDs automatically in racks and docks. A robust base for faster, safer and more efficient transfers.
Automated Guided Vehicles move ULDs flexibly across the terminal. Scalable, 24/7 available and safe – ideal for efficient cargo flows.
From Landside to Airside – Explore the Processes
Navigate through the key steps of air cargo handling and explore how our solutions support each process.
Planning or Upgrading Your Multi-Level ULD Handling?
Our Experts Are Ready to Support.
FAQs
All ETV variants can lift up to 6,800 kg ULDs, including up to 15 ft in NEP or WEP orientation. A 20 ft ETV can also carry 13,600 kg.
The ETV supports simultaneous vertical and horizontal ULD transfers within ULD storage systems.
Yes. It features friction-driven extractors for transfer to and from passive storage decks.
The ETV includes obstacle detection, fall-arrest mechanisms, warning lights, emergency stops, and safety buffers.
Yes. It runs in automatic, semi-automatic, manual, and maintenance modes based on operational needs.
Redundant motors, manual override, decoupling of drive systems, and safety catch devices ensure continuous operation.
It uses barcode positioning systems for precise vertical and horizontal alignment for ULD handovers.
Via a conductor rail system along the aisle; control is managed through on-board motor control cabinets.
Yes. It includes safety windows, lighting, controls, and ergonomic workstations — all moving with the platform.
A dedicated platform with safety harness, ladder, and fall-arrest system ensures secure service access.