Revolution at the Dock: How Automated Container Loading is Powering NZ’s Export Efficiency

The Challenge:

Manual loading was slowing down operations and introducing safety risks in time-critical cold chain environments

The Solution:

Ulti Group deployed a fully automated, export-compliant dock loading system using Joloda skate and roller technology.

The Result:

Load times dropped dramatically, operator safety improved, and export processes became faster and more reliable.

 

Recently in August, we were proud to talk about one of our most dynamic innovations at the New Zealand Cold Storage Conference: an automated container loading system, captured in a fast-paced, behind-the-scenes teaser video that turned more than a few heads.

 

Cold storage and export logistics come with a unique set of challenges – speed, hygiene, precision, and safety all have to align. Whether you’re shipping frozen meat, dairy, produce, or pharmaceuticals, time spent with dock doors open means temperature fluctuations, compliance risks, and costly inefficiencies. That’s where automated loading becomes a true game-changer.

 

The video we presented demonstrates this transformation in real-time. A fully loaded pallet stack is smoothly transferred from the warehouse directly into a container in just seconds – no forklifts entering the container, no manual handling, and no time wasted. It’s powered by Joloda’s Hydraroll system, a proven leader in loading automation, combined with Ulti Group’s export-compliant dock integration.

 

You’ll see the system at work: sleek, stainless steel rollers line up perfectly with skates on the dock floor, moving entire pallet loads into the container with mechanical precision. The operator initiates the load with the push of a button – remaining entirely outside the loading zone, improving safety while boosting productivity.

 

This system also meets strict hygiene and compliance standards, ideal for export-oriented cold storage environments. Its clean, stainless construction and seamless enclosure make it perfect for food-grade operations where sterility and traceability are critical.

 

Most importantly, the results speak for themselves:

• Container loading time slashed from 45 minutes to under 5 minutes
• Improved operator safety with no need for forklifts to enter confined spaces
• Consistent load alignment, reducing freight damage during transit
• Fewer emissions, thanks to reduced truck idling and quicker turnaround
• Lower labour requirements, freeing teams to focus on high-value tasks

 

For businesses looking to streamline their operations and reduce bottlenecks at the loading dock, this system isn’t just nice to have – it’s a future proof investment. Whether you’re moving temperature-sensitive goods or simply trying to gain the edge in a competitive supply chain, automated container loading delivers clear, measurable ROI.

 

As shown in our teaser at the Cold Storage Conference, Ulti Group is helping shape the future of dock loading systems – right here in New Zealand. From consultation to custom integration, we design solutions that work for real-world logistics operations.

 

Ready to load smarter, faster, and safer? Talk to us about your dock setup – we’re here to help you make the leap to automation.