How much does a DPE container weigh and carry?

Tare weight is typically 72 to 85 kg depending on the manufacturer. The maximum gross weight is about 1,225 kg, leaving roughly 1,140 to 1,150 kg of payload.

What do DPE and LD2 mean?

DPE is the IATA three-letter ULD code: D for a certified container, P for the base size and E for the contour. LD2 is the older ATA name for the same container.

Which aircraft can carry a DPE?

The DPE is used on the lower deck of the Boeing 747, 767 and 777. Confirm the container type with the operating airline, because lower-deck loading plans differ by aircraft version.

What is the difference between a DPE and an AKE?

The AKE (LD3) has a 1,562 × 1,534 mm base and holds about 4.5 m³. The DPE (LD2) has a narrower 1,534 × 1,194 mm base and holds about 3.4 m³, which makes it a half-width unit.

What is the DPE internal volume?

The DPE holds about 3.4 m³ (120 ft³). Some manufacturers list up to 3.5 m³ depending on construction.

When is a DPE used instead of an AKE?

Airlines load a DPE when the remaining lower-deck space is too narrow for a full AKE, or when the shipment is small. It lets carriers use floor space that would otherwise stay empty.

DPE (LD2) ULD Dimensions

The compact half-width lower-deck container for wide-body aircraft

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Base footprint

1.53m × 1.19m

Overall width

1.56m

Overall height

1.63m

Internal volume

3.4 m³

Max gross weight

1,225 kg

Tare weight

85 kg

Max payload

1,140 kg

Floor load limit

976 kg/m²

Door opening

1.01m × 1.48m

Deck

Lower deck

IATA code

DPE (LD2)

Values follow IATA ULD technical specifications. Tare weight varies by manufacturer, roughly 72 to 85 kg.

DPE in practice: aircraft, contour and loading

Compatible aircraft

The DPE (LD2) fits the lower deck of the Boeing 747, 767 and 777, where its narrow base makes use of gaps that a full-width LD3 cannot fill.

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Typical use

The DPE carries loose cargo and baggage in the lower deck. Its smaller footprint helps airlines fill the remaining floor space beside or between larger containers.

Contour

One side is angled to follow the fuselage curve. The base is 1,534 × 1,194 mm and widens to 1,562 mm at the top, so it is narrower than an AKE.

Loading limits

Maximum gross weight is about 1,225 kg including the container. Subtract the tare of roughly 72 to 85 kg to get the payload. Keep heavy items low and inside the angled contour.

Compare ULD sizes Air Freight ULD Guide

DPE (LD2) — Frequently Asked Questions

The DPE has a base of about 1,534 × 1,194 mm (60.4 × 47 in), an overall width of 1,562 mm (61.5 in) at the top and an overall height of 1,626 mm (64 in). The door opening is about 1,010 × 1,480 mm.

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