What Is an ATA Case?

If you need to move sensitive equipment, a cardboard box with some bubble wrap isn’t going to cut it. You need a durable, reliable case that will protect your valuable items from bangs, shocks, and jostles.

So, what’s your best option? An ATA case may be exactly what you’re looking for. But what is an ATA case?

What Is an ATA Case?

ATA cases are sturdy shipping containers designed to protect sensitive equipment during transportation. Large production and AV companies use ATA cases to transport and store AV equipment, musical instruments, firearms, and more.

You may have heard this style of container called a road case or a flight case, but ATA cases specifically meet Air Transport Association guidelines for shipping by flight. These cases are built to ensure your equipment is safe during the entirety of its journey.

ATA cases offer serious function. They protect equipment from falls, shocks, dust, and moisture. Plus, you can customize them to meet your aesthetic, mobility, and security needs. Some ATA cases even double as mobile workstations!

What Are ATA Cases Used For?

Now that we’ve answered your burning question — “What is an ATA case?” — let’s explore some common uses of ATA cases.

Most companies associate ATA cases with video production and music touring. They’re the standard for securing and transporting everything from cameras and lenses to audio mixers and lighting equipment. Musicians may also use them for transporting instruments.

However, uses for ATA cases extend far beyond live concerts and music videos. They can keep any fragile equipment or item safe and secure for storage, organization, and transportation.

Medical professionals use them to transport imaging and diagnostic equipment. The military keeps drones, firearms, ammunition, and heavy tools in ATA cases. Traders, exhibitors, and collectors use them to move everything from antiques to custom models.

Anything you need to protect can be kept safe by an ATA case. The only limit is your imagination.

What Are ATA Cases Made Of?

ATA cases are tough as a mother on the outside and soft on the inside. What makes them so durable and safe?

At Kangaroo Cases, we make all our ATA cases with thick birch plywood panels, laminated with a layer of ABS plastic. We attach the panels together and reinforce the edges with aluminum angle and rivets. The other hardware — handles, latches, corners, etc. — is steel with a firm zinc coating.

The interiors of our cases are often fitted with customized framework and precision-cut foam inserts, keeping your equipment stable and cushioned against shocks and jostles. Depending on the contents, felt or carpet can also line the cases.

How Are ATA Cases Made?

ATA cases come in many different shapes and sizes, and many manufacturers offer completely customized models in addition to their standard ones. The manufacturing process may differ depending on the type of case and the manufacturer.

Small ATA cases may be made through rotational or injection molding. These processes create a single, uniform piece by melting polyethylene powder in a mold.

Carpenters construct large or complex cases piece by piece. At Kangaroo Cases, our team of master carpenters hand-makes both standard and custom cases at our manufacturing facility in Dallas, Texas. The process takes a few weeks, so we encourage buyers to plan ahead.

Finding the Right ATA Case

When it comes to ATA cases, form follows function. To find the best design, first figure out how to keep your equipment safe. You may also need to consider:

• The size, shape, and weight of the case
• Design elements like shelving, wheels, or locks
• Accessibility requirements like a removable lid

Still unsure? The best way to get exactly what you need is to talk to an expert. Contact us today by phone or email, or Get a Quote on our website. Let’s come up with a great solution together.