cargo hold

This term refers specifically to the structural compartment of a transport vessel. While "hold" alone can be used in maritime contexts, "cargo hold" is the precise technical term used across aviation and space travel to distinguish the freight area from passenger cabins or cockpit spaces.

In a logistical context, the term implies a space that is managed for weight distribution and balance, which is critical for the stability of the vehicle during transit. It is distinct from a "trunk" or "boot" used in passenger cars, as it is designed for industrial-scale transport.