RoRo Car Shipping Guide: How to Transport Your Vehicle Safely and Legally

Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping is one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to transport cars, trucks, and other wheeled vehicles overseas. Instead of being loaded into containers, vehicles are simply driven onto a specialized ship, secured for transit, and then driven off at the destination.

This method is widely used by manufacturers, dealerships, and individuals alike. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about RoRo car shipping, from how it works to what it costs.

Additionally, we will provide tips for preparing your vehicle and choosing a reliable transport company. With Move Cars, you can compare top-rated RoRo shipping providers and book with confidence knowing your vehicle is in trusted hands.

What Is RoRo Car Shipping?

RoRo car shipping, short for “roll-on/roll-off,” is a method of transporting vehicles where they are physically driven onto a specialized vessel at the port of origin and then driven off at the destination.

These ships are engineered with built-in ramps and multiple decks, allowing for smooth, efficient, and secure loading and unloading. Unlike container shipping, where cars are placed inside steel boxes, vehicles in RoRo transport remain parked inside the vessel’s enclosed and weather-protected decks, secured with straps and braces to prevent movement during transit.

This method is widely used for both personal vehicles and large-scale shipments, including cars, trucks, buses, RVs, and even heavy machinery. It’s particularly popular for international car shipping because it simplifies logistics – no need for cranes, containers, or disassembly of the vehicle.

For many shippers, RoRo offers the perfect balance of safety, speed, and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred option over containerized transport when flexibility and affordability are top priorities.

When should you choose RoRo shipping?

RoRo shipping is an excellent choice if:

• You need to ship a standard, operable car, truck, or SUV overseas.

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to container shipping.

• You don’t need to ship personal belongings or household goods along with your vehicle.

• You want a straightforward process with minimal preparation requirements.

However, if you need to ship luxury, vintage, or inoperable vehicles or want to include personal belongings, container shipping may be the better option.

How RoRo Car Shipping Works

Shipping your car with a roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessel is designed to be as smooth and efficient as possible. From booking to pickup, each step follows a clear process that ensures your vehicle is handled with care throughout the journey.

The process of shipping your car with RoRo is relatively simple:

• Book your shipment: Choose a licensed and experienced car shipping company that offers RoRo service to your destination. Working with the right partner gives you peace of mind that your car will be transported safely and on schedule.

• Prepare your car: Clean the vehicle, remove personal belongings, and ensure it’s in good working order to be driven onto the ship. Proper preparation also speeds up inspection and reduces the risk of delays at the port.

• Drop off at port: Deliver your car to the designated terminal on the agreed date. Arriving on time helps avoid storage fees and ensures your vehicle is ready when the vessel is loaded.

• Loading: The shipping crew drives your vehicle onto the RoRo vessel and secures it. Vehicles are strapped and braced to prevent any movement while at sea.

• Transit: Your car remains safely stowed inside the ship during the journey. RoRo vessels are built specifically for vehicles and provide secure, weather-protected decks.

• Arrival: At the destination port, your car is driven off the ship and made available for pickup after customs clearance. Depending on the port, your shipping agent can also assist with completing necessary documentation.

By following these steps, RoRo shipping simplifies what could otherwise be a complex process. With an experienced shipping company handling the logistics, you can focus on the destination while knowing your car is in safe hands.

Benefits of RoRo Car Shipping

RoRo car shipping offers several advantages over other international shipping methods. This approach has become increasingly popular for both personal and commercial vehicle transport due to its affordability, efficiency, and ease of use.

Cost-effective compared to containers

Because vehicles are simply driven onto the ship, RoRo eliminates the need for costly containers, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for international transport. It’s particularly advantageous for fleet shipments or multiple vehicles.

Safe and secure loading process

Vehicles are carefully driven onto specialized decks and secured with straps and braces, minimizing the risk of damage during transit. The ships are designed to protect cars from movement and vibration during the voyage.

Faster turnaround times

RoRo ships are designed for efficiency, allowing faster loading and unloading than containerized shipping, which helps reduce total transit time. This makes it ideal for tight schedules or urgent deliveries.

Ideal for standard cars, SUVs, vans, and fleets

Whether you’re shipping a single vehicle or a fleet, RoRo accommodates most operable wheeled vehicles efficiently. The method works well for everyday vehicles without requiring special modifications.

By choosing RoRo shipping, vehicle owners can save both time and money while maintaining high levels of safety and reliability. This combination of cost-effectiveness, speed, and convenience makes RoRo an excellent choice for almost any operable vehicle transport.

RoRo Car Shipping Rates

While exact prices vary, several factors influence RoRo car shipping rates. Understanding these variables can help you plan your shipment more effectively and avoid unexpected costs.

• Distance and shipping route: Longer routes and less frequently serviced ports generally cost more. Choosing a direct or well-serviced route can sometimes reduce your overall shipping expense.

• Port fees and customs requirements: Each country has its own handling fees, taxes, and customs procedures. Being aware of these costs ahead of time ensures a smoother clearance process at both ends.

• Vehicle size and weight: Larger and heavier vehicles occupy more space, affecting the cost. Oversized or unusually shaped vehicles may also require special handling or permits, which can influence pricing.

• Seasonal demand and availability: Peak shipping periods, such as summer or holiday seasons, may increase rates. Planning your shipment during off-peak times can help secure more competitive pricing.

With Move Cars, you can compare competitive RoRo shipping rates from trusted carriers to find an option that fits your budget. By understanding the cost factors and working with an experienced shipping platform, you can make your RoRo transport both affordable and stress-free.

How Many Cars Can a RoRo Ship Carry?

RoRo vessels are capable of transporting thousands of vehicles at once, making them a key solution for large-scale and commercial auto shipments. Their design allows for efficient organization and secure stowing of hundreds or even thousands of cars on each voyage.

• General capacity: Most RoRo ships can carry several thousand cars per voyage. This high capacity helps reduce shipping costs when transporting multiple vehicles simultaneously.

• Largest ships: Some of the world’s biggest RoRo vessels, like those operated by Hoegh Autoliners and Wallenius Wilhelmsen, can carry between 5,000 and 8,000 vehicles. These mega-ships are designed to handle large fleets efficiently while maintaining safety standards.

• Advantages of large-capacity transport: Shipping large numbers of vehicles at once reduces cost per car and allows manufacturers, dealerships, and exporters to move fleets efficiently. It also minimizes the number of voyages needed, saving time and resources.

By using large-capacity RoRo vessels, shippers can achieve economies of scale while ensuring vehicles are transported safely and efficiently. Whether moving a handful of cars or an entire fleet, RoRo shipping provides a reliable solution for high-volume transport needs.

Types of Vehicles Transported by RoRo

RoRo shipping isn’t limited to standard cars; it accommodates a wide variety of vehicles, making it a versatile solution for both personal and commercial transport. This flexibility allows individuals, dealerships, and manufacturers to ship almost any operable wheeled vehicle efficiently.

• Passenger cars and SUVs: Most commonly shipped via RoRo due to ease of loading. These vehicles require minimal adjustments and can be secured quickly on the vessel’s decks.

• Pickup trucks and vans: Require slightly more deck space but are fully compatible. Their higher weight and dimensions are easily accommodated with proper securing techniques.

• Heavy machinery and oversized vehicles: When modified for RoRo shipping, some heavy or specialized vehicles can be transported safely. Specialized handling ensures these vehicles are stable and protected throughout the voyage.

• Fleet and dealership shipments: RoRo is ideal for moving multiple vehicles at once for commercial purposes. Large-capacity transport reduces cost per vehicle and simplifies logistics for bulk shipments.

By accommodating a broad range of vehicles, RoRo shipping offers unmatched flexibility for different shipping needs. Whether transporting a single car or an entire fleet, this method offers safe, cost-effective, and efficient delivery every time.

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RoRo Car Shipping vs. Container Shipping

Choosing between RoRo and container shipping often depends on your budget, vehicle type, and security needs. By understanding the strengths of each method, you can make a more informed decision for your shipment.

Common myths about RoRo include the belief that vehicles are left exposed to the weather or unsafe during transit. In reality, RoRo decks are fully enclosed and specifically designed for vehicle safety.

Steps to Prepare Your Car for RoRo Shipping

When it comes to international transport, preparation is just as important as choosing the right shipping method. Proper preparation leads to your vehicle arriving safely:

• Clean and inspect the vehicle: Document any pre-existing damage for insurance purposes.

• Remove personal belongings: RoRo shipping does not allow items inside the car.

• Ensure the car is operable and fueled at least 1/4 tank: Vehicles need to be driven onto the ship and may require minimal fuel for positioning.

• Documentation required: Prepare title, registration, ID, and customs papers to avoid delays at the port.

Taking these steps reduces risks and helps streamline the shipping process. A well-prepared vehicle is less likely to face complications during loading, transit, or customs clearance.

Ultimately, preparation ensures peace of mind and smooth delivery to your destination.

Why Choose Move Cars for RoRo Car Shipping

Move Cars simplifies international vehicle shipping with reliable service and industry expertise. Whether you’re relocating, selling a vehicle abroad, or bringing a car back home, we make the process smooth and stress-free.

• Experience with global shipping routes: We understand the logistics of moving cars to and from major ports worldwide.

• Partnerships with major RoRo carriers: Our network includes trusted carriers with proven track records.

• Affordable and transparent service: Compare rates, know what’s included, and avoid hidden fees.

• Customer-first approach: Real-time tracking, support, and guidance through every step of the shipping process.

With Move Cars, you can ship your vehicle confidently, knowing it’s handled by experts from start to finish. No matter the destination, we prioritize safety, efficiency, and peace of mind.

RoRo shipping offers a safe, cost-effective, and straightforward way to transport vehicles overseas. Whether you’re moving abroad, buying a car from another country, or exporting inventory, RoRo provides a reliable solution for getting your vehicle where it needs to go.

By preparing your vehicle properly and choosing a trusted shipping company, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your car will arrive safely and legally at its destination.

Ready to move your car? Get overseas car shipping quotes!