Filed Under:
Products
Published on
April 24, 2025
ATA cases—not to be confused with "ATA-style" or "shipping" cases—are some of the most robust containers you can buy. They meet or exceed Air Transport Association (ATA) standards, which is a gold standard in the case industry. Not only are they tough enough to withstand the rigors of air travel, but they also do a good job of protecting the contents from moisture, vibration, and extreme temperatures. Whether your gear travels by air, land, or sea, or just across town, an ATA case is a smart investment.
ATA cases guarantee safe passage for delicate gear, be it for use in music, film, industry, or the military. Such cases always go the extra mile to ensure that equipment arrives at its destination in one piece.
This post examines ATA cases, their essential traits, and the sectors that depend on them.
An ATA case is a robust, impact-proof transport case that can take the sorts of rough handling and tough shipping that most things packed within it can't—and that most mere "roadworthy" shipping cases certainly can't.
That's because ATA cases are made from top-quality materials: plywood, aluminum, high-density foam or carpet interiors, and occasionally, reinforced hardware that really elevates the durability of these cases. And what's more, the construction and the materials used in an ATA case ensure that it is not only just a transport case but also a secure, protective case.
Cases built to ATA Specification 300 - Category I must follow a certain set of requirements. The basic premise is that these cases need to withstand everything that might happen to them during an average day of air travel. Factors when determining the resistance to damage include bumped and dropped, handled, compressed, and bent.
Withstanding at least 100 round-trip shipments.
Resistance to high impact to safeguard delicate apparatus.
Latches that stay shut, corner reinforcements, and fitted interiors to absorb shock.
ATA Cases are designed specifically for harsh conditions, and constant or rough use in environments where they are moved around a lot outside or in work areas. This means they need to be made of materials that will withstand those elements.
Common Design Features:
Plywood construction with ABS or fiberglass lamination - Provides added strength and impact resistance.
Aluminum Extrusions and Steel Ball Corners - Maintain the strength and shape of corners and seams.
Industrial Strength Latches and Hinges - Keep the case shut for traveling, again and again.
Internally Mounted Thermoformed Foam - Protect the case's contents with the most lightweight and durable option that’s easy to fit to specific cargo.
Caster Wheels and Recessed Handles - Aids in handling, storing, and overall portability of the case, especially when it is loaded with heavy gear.
ATA Cases are made so they will last a long time and can be counted on for transport applications that demand a reliability close to that of continuous operation.
What Makes an ATA Case a Better Choice Than Other Hard Cases?
Size availability – Can be built for larger cargo than most alternative cases
Tougher than most - They hold together better than alternative plastic or wood shipping crates.
Individualized Interiors - Easily customizable and built around specific cargo and use cases.
Weather & Moisture Resistance - Shields from humidity, spills, and outdoor conditions.
Efficient Storage and Space Stacking - ATA cases are constructed to be stackable, providing optimal storage capabilities.
Multiple industries that demand dependable shipping safety utilize ATA cases.
Touring & Entertainment
Musicians & Performers
Film & Broadcasting
Event Production
Industrial & Tool Storage
Technicians in the field
Labs & Scientific Gear
Construction & Engineering Firms
Military & Law Enforcement
Firearm & Tactical Gear Storage
Communications & Surveillance Equipment
Transport for Drones and UAVs
Medical & Emergency Response
Medical Equipment That Is Easily Transportable
Emergency Response & Disaster Relief
ATA cases provide higher protection than soft padded cases or even standard hard plastic cases. ATA cases are overbuilt and rightly so, since they protect very valuable equipment. Their heft makes them less than ideal for the frequent flyer who must constantly check in and out of airports, but for roadies, couriers, and adventurers, they are the must-have case.
At Royal Case Company, we build custom ATA cases that protect critical equipment in touring, industrial, military, and commercial applications. With over 40 years of experience across the globe, our expertise is unmatched to give you the protection to keep you moving. Call us today!
