CHEP Aerospace Solutions, a leading independent provider of outsourced unit load device (ULD) and galley cart management services, has launched Chep Focus, a mobile application for iOS and Android devices.

The app is aimed at simplifying several ULD-related processes which are currently mainly paper-based, and is designed to save time and money for airlines, ground-handling agents, freight forwarders and other key industry stakeholders, said a statement.

It will record and transmit ULD messages in the standard Iata format, manage and update stock and serviceability information, submit ad-hoc track and trace requests for individual container and pallet units and be able to share ULD movement information with configurable recipients via email.

The app will liaise with Chep’s web-based software tools and ensure accurate and prompt data transfer within the network. It employs technologies including barcode scanning and optical character recognition (OCR) using the mobile device’s built-in camera and has the ability to capture geospatial data on the position of ULDs via location-based services.

Floris Kleijn, IT director, said: “Leading the industry in innovation by proactively bringing new products and services to the market is a key driver at Chep Aerospace Solutions. Our IT strategy promotes the allocation of resources towards the development and enhancement of customer-facing information technology systems that add value for our customers and operations.