Vehicle Roll on Roll off Shipping | RORO | Ro Ro
RORO Shipping for your car, motorhome or expedition truck Instant QuoteWhat is Roll On Roll Off (RORO / Ro-Ro) Shipping?
Roll on Roll off Shipping (RORO/RO-RO) is a popular and cost-effective method of shipping single vehicles and other types of cargo. This shipping method involves driving the vehicle directly onto the vessel, which is designed to securely transport and protect it from wind and water damage.
RORO carriers are capable of handling a wide range of vehicles, including motorcycles, cars, 4x4s, motorhomes, expedition trucks, commercial trucks, heavy plant and equipment, and other cargo. Compared to container shipping, RORO offers a simpler and more streamlined process that doesn’t require additional lashing or haulage. As a result, port and customs procedures are typically less complex, making it an efficient and cost-effective shipping option.
Roll on Roll off, often abbreviated as RORO or RO-RO, is a unique method of shipping vehicles and heavy machinery. But what exactly is RORO, and how does it revolutionize the way we transport large vehicles?
What is Roll on Roll off (RORO) Shipping?
RORO Shipping refers to the method by which vehicles and heavy machinery are loaded onto large ocean-going vessels for international transportation. Unlike traditional container shipping, RORO enables items to be driven (or rolled on) onto the ship at the departure port and rolled off at the destination. This seamless process offers a significant advantage when dealing with bulky or heavy cargo that can’t easily be placed inside containers.
Key Features of RORO Ships
- Designed for Vehicle Transport: RORO ships are specifically designed to carry vehicles, from everyday cars to large trucks, motorhomes, and heavy machinery or equipment.
- Spacious and Adjustable: The vast interiors of RORO ships can be adjusted and partitioned as per the requirement, accommodating varying sizes of vehicles and machinery.
- Ease of Access: With built-in ramps and multiple decks, these ships are designed for vehicles to be driven on and off with minimal hassle.
Benefits of Using RORO Shipping
- Safety: RORO shipping reduces the risk of damages during the loading and unloading process. Vehicles are securely fastened within the vessel, ensuring their protection against the elements and movement during transit.
- Efficiency: The roll on and roll off method eliminates the need for cranes and extensive manpower, leading to quicker and more efficient loading and unloading times.
- Cost-effective: For large vehicles and machinery, RORO can often be more economical than container shipping or other methods.
In conclusion, when it comes to shipping large vehicles and heavy equipment internationally, RORO shipping is often the preferred choice. With its specialized design and emphasis on safety and efficiency, RORO ships provide an invaluable service for the global transportation of cars, motorhomes, trucks, and more.
Roll on Roll off vehicle shipping services (RORO)
We offer car and vehicle RORO shipping services globally, with coverage to and from major ports in the EU (UK, Belgium, Germany), North America (USA, Canada & Mexico), South America (Colombia, Chile, Argentina Uruguay) , Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Kenya), Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Our team can advise you on the availability of shipping to your desired destinations, and determine whether container shipping would be a more convenient or cost-effective option.
We understand that each region has its unique challenges and requirements, and that’s why we tailor our services to meet the specific needs of each customer. For example, we have experience navigating the complexities of customs clearance procedures in different countries, which can be a challenging process for those unfamiliar with the local regulations. For example EPA exemption for entry in the USA or Carnet requirements for Africa.
We recognize that shipping a vehicle can be a complex process, and we strive to make it as easy and hassle-free as possible for our customers. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including vehicle collection, delivery, customs clearance, and insurance, all of which are designed to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and on time. With our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, you can trust us to take care of your RORO vehicle shipping needs.
Popular RORO Vehicle Shipping destinations from Europe, UK, Germany & Belgium
We offer a wide range of reliable and efficient RORO vehicle shipping services, catering to various destinations across the world. Whether you’re based in Europe, the UK, Germany, or Belgium, we can transport your passenger vehicles, cars, 4x4s, motorhomes, trucks, heavy machinery, and plant to worldwide:
Vehicle shipping North America
For North America our RORO vehicle shipping destinations include some of the most popular ports in the world, such as UK or Europe to Halifax in Canada, or the UK or Europe to USA i.e New York, Baltimore, and Brunswick in the East, Galveston in the South, and Long Beach, Tacoma, and Port Hueneme in the West of the USA. We also transport vehicles to destinations such as Veracruz in Mexico, Manzanillo in Panama.
Vehicle shipping South America
Our RORO vehicle shipping services to South America cover a range of destinations, including Cartagena in Colombia, Zarate in Argentina, Montevideo in Uruguay, and various ports in Chile, such as Arica and San Antonio.
Vehicle shipping Africa
We take pride in offering a comprehensive range of RORO vehicle shipping services to destinations across Africa. Whether you’re shipping a passenger vehicle, truck, heavy machinery, or plant, we have the expertise and resources to ensure that your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and on time.
Our services cover many different regions across Africa, including the West Coast of Africa, South Africa (Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London), Walvis Bay in Namibia, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Mombasa in Kenya, and northern Africa, including Sudan and Alexandria in Egypt.
Vehicle shipping Asia
In Asia, we offer a range of RORO vehicle shipping services to various destinations, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Jakarta in Indonesia, and Busan in South Korea. We also provide services to other popular ports across Asia, such as Shanghai and Tianjin in China, and Tokyo and Yokohama in Japan.
Vehicle shipping Australia and New Zealand
For those looking to ship their vehicles to Australia or New Zealand, we offer reliable and efficient RORO vehicle shipping services to destinations such as Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland. Our team of experts can help you navigate the complex customs and quarantine regulations in these countries, ensuring that your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
Vehicle shipping Middle East
We provide RORO vehicle shipping services to a range of destinations in the Middle East, including Jeddah and Dammam in Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, and Kuwait. We have experience navigating the complex regulations and requirements for shipping vehicles to these destinations, and our team of experts can help you navigate the process smoothly and efficiently.
At our company, we are committed to providing our customers with a high-quality service that meets their unique needs and requirements. Whether you’re shipping a single vehicle or an entire fleet, we have the capacity and capability to meet your needs, delivering your vehicle to its destination safely and on time.
How much does RORO (Roll on Roll off) shipping cost?
The cost RORO shipping depends on a number of factors, the port combination i.e where you are shipping from and to, the carrier used, and the dimensions and weight of your vehicle.
We can ship your vehicle RORO from many countries including the UK, Belgium, Germany, USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and many others.
Quite often shipping costs calculator to either as a unit rate, the smaller vehicles or by Cubic Meters (LxWxH), by meter length or square ft
For instant Roll on Roll off shipping quotation and prices please complete our online form.
How much does RORO car & vehicle shipping Costs? Get an instant quote!
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Roll on Roll off ports
Roll on Roll of Shipping ports in Europe for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
| UK | Belgium | Netherlands | Germany |
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| Italy | Spain | Greece | Cyprus |
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Roll on Roll off Shipping ports in South America for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
| Colombia | Ecuador | Peru | Chile |
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| Brazil | Uruguay | Argentina | Suriname |
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Roll on Roll off Shipping ports in North America for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
| Canada | USA (East) | USA (West & Other) | Mexico |
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Roll on Roll off Shipping ports in Africa for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
| South Africa | Namibia | Egypt | Morocco |
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| Kenya | Tanzania | Mozambique | Ghana |
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| Mauritius | Nigeria | Sierra Leone | Senegal |
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Lagos | Dakar |
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Roll on Roll off Shipping ports in Asia for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
| India | China | Malaysia | Philippines |
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| Singapore | Japan | Thailand | Indonesia |
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| South Korea | Vietnam | Brunei | Taiwan |
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Roll on Roll off Shipping ports in Australia and New Zealand for vehicles, cars, 4x4, Motorhomes and Expedition Trucks.
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Customs Clearance
We offer a flexible approach to shipping and will adapt services to meet your needs and requirements.
We can offer all in services that include customs clearance for both import and export or you can appoint your own clearing agent at the port of departure or arrival.
*Note in some countries, it is mandatory to use a customs clearing agent.
Roll on Roll Off Shipping (RORO) Rate Calculation
Roll on Roll off Shipping rates are charged on a number of different criteria:
Cubic metres (CBM) – CBM is the volume of your shipment, it can be calculated with the following formula: Length x Width x Height = cubic metre (m3) (normally calculated to the nearest centimetre).
Weight or Measurement (W/M) – The carrier will base the sea rate on either the weight of the shipment or CBM, whichever is greater. The W/M rule represents a cargo density equation i.e. light cargo is charged based on the CBM, while heavy cargo is based on the weight. W/M calculations may differ among carriers.
Metre Length – The carrier will charge a rate per metre of the cargo length, disregarding both CBM and W/M. i.e if your vehicle is 6.2m long then the rate would be: Rate($300) x 6.2 = Sea Rate of $1,860.
In addition to the sea rate, it is important to understand that you may also have the following charges to pay:
Carrier Charges – OTHC (origin terminal handling charges), Bill of Lading, BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor or Fuel Scale Charge), LSL (low sulphur surcharge) and other charges.
Outgoing / Export – Customs clearance fees and related charges, additional local handling fees.
Incoming / Import – Customs clearance fees and related charges, Documentation Fees (i.e BL), THC (terminal handling charges), Cargo Dues, other local handling fees.
Quite often, agents will only provide you with the fees quoted by the carrier, these often do not detail local charges or destination fees. Where available, we will include these costs in your quote.
Example RORO rates
We have now automated most of our quote requests, so for the latest rates, please complete an online quote request here.
Import / Export Fees / Surcharges
Most Agents and shipping lines will provide you details of the THC (Terminal Handling Charges) at the origin however they will not always provide you the THC or other local charges / handling fees due at the place of import / export. If you have appointed an agent at the destination port, they should be able to advise what additional fees are due. If not, you should seek to clarify them before shipping as they can mount up.
Export & Import Costs include THC, port fees, cargo dues and customs clearance fees. When considering the rates, you should bear this in mind. Each port sets its own rates which can significantly differ from port to port, and may be charged depending on the size of the vehicle, its weight or a set fee.
Bunker adjustment factor, bunker surcharge or BAF is an adjustment to shipping companies freight rates to take into account fluctuations in the cost of fuel for their ships. This fluctuates regularly and is set by individual carriers. BAF rates can be anything from 0% to 30% or more. BAF, if applicable, will be provided with your quotation.
Some carriers may charge rates per unit i.e. Sedan, 4x4, Motorhome and also have different rates for the various heights of vehicles.
For example – you should expect to pay import and export fees at both departure and arrival ports at the amounts below.
Europe €50 - €300
South America $100 - $1200
Southern Africa $400 - $700
USA $200 - $400
*If you are shipping by container, there will be additional costs to the above.
Rates are based on the following lengths and cbm's:
| CBM | Length | |
| Car | 10 | 5 |
| 4x4 | 20 | 5 |
| MotorHome | 40 | 6 |
| Expedition Truck | 60 | 8 |
ROLL ON ROLL OFF FAQ’s
RORO
(Roll on Roll Off)
How is the Roll on Roll off vehicle shipping price calculated?
Roll on Roll off (RORO) shipping costs are normally priced by cubic metre i.e. the total dimensions of your vehicle Length 5.0m Width 2.0m x Height 2.1m = 21 cbm times the cost per CBM.
Sometimes shipping companies charge by length or the greater cost of CBM or weight.
On top of the ocean rate calculated above, you will also have the following costs: Bunker Adjustment (BAF) and Low Sulphur Fuel Surcharge (LSF).
Other fees that may be charged for export and import of the shipment are Security Fees, Gate fees, Document Fees, Terminal Handling Charges (THC), and Clearance charges.
Is my car and equipment Safe?
The security and consistency of RORO shipping has improved over the last few years, with very few reported incidents of damage and theft from vehicles.
If you ship via RORO, we would advise that any removable items are secured / locked up. If you do have personal belongings in the vehicle, consider putting in place a temporary barrier preventing people from accessing them.
Where possible, make sure everything has been stored out of sight and inaccessible to anyone but you.
If you do plan to ship personal belongings with your vehicle, please read the next FAQ.
Can I ship personal belongings with my vehicle?
Most RORO shippers state that they do not accept personal belongings in their T&C's, others state that they are allowed in Motorhomes or that they are carried at your own risk.
The first and most important thing to understand is that if you do take personal belongings, it will be at your own risk.
In practice, personal effects are tolerated, however they should be secured and stowed away out of sight.
We would recommend that you fully secure or separate the area where your personal effects are, you can do this by creating a secure barrier between sections of the vehicles, having chains or separate locks on the passenger doors and boot. You should not leave anything unsecured in the vehicle where people can access it.
*Note The loading of vehicles with personal goods is at the discretion of the shipping company, they reserve the right to refuse loading of your vehicle. They may also sometimes request additional photos of your vehicle prior to loading.
Services Provided
Basic Shipping (RORO Only)
The Basic Shipping service provides you with a booking for RORO and options to include insurance.
This service is only for those who will be appointing their own agent for export and import.
This Service includes:
- Sea Freight Booking RORO
- Costs for Outgoing THC
- Option for Marine insurance
This service does not include:
- Appointment of an Agent at the place of departure (sometimes paid locally)
- Outgoing – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Outgoing – Haulage, stuffing, crating and lashing where applicable
- Appointment of an Agent at your destination (Paid locally)
- Incoming – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Incoming – Haulage and unpacking where applicable
- Details of costs at your destination
- Support throughout the process
*Note for some routes we may ask for confirmation of who your clearing agent is at the port of departure and arrival prior to confirming your booking.
Export - Shipping and outgoing Stuffing / Clearing
The Export service provides you with a booking for RORO or a container, Outgoing Customs clearance, stuffing, documentation and options to include insurance.
It is for those who want an all in rate and support for export of their vehicle, but who wish to appoint their own agent at destination.
This Service includes:
- Sea Freight Booking (RORO & Container)
- Costs for Outgoing THC
- Appointment of an agent at the place of departure (sometimes paid locally)
- Outgoing – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Outgoing – Haulage, stuffing, crating and lashing where applicable
- Option for Marine insurance
- Support for export of your vehicle
This service does not include:
- Appointment of an Agent at your destination
- Incoming – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Incoming – Haulage and unpacking where applicable
- Details of costs at your destination
- Support for import of your vehicle
All in - Shipping outgoing / incoming Stuffing / Clearing
The All in service provides you with a booking for RORO or a container, Incoming and Outgoing Customs clearance, stuffing documentation and options to include insurance.
This service is for those who want the entire process handled for them and is supported throughout.
This Service includes:
- Sea Freight Booking (RORO & Container)
- Costs for Outgoing THC
- Appointment of an agent the place of departure (sometimes paid locally)
- Outgoing – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Outgoing – Haulage, stuffing, crating and lashing where applicable
- Option for Marine insurance
- Appointment of an Agent at your destination (Paid locally)
- Incoming – Customs Clearance & Paperwork
- Incoming – Haulage and unpacking where applicable
- Details of costs at your destination
- Support throughout the process
Shipping Terms
When do I have to make payment?
We usually ask for payment of the outgoing shipping costs prior to shipping. (Ocean Freight, port fees, documents and any clearance fees). Sometimes local outgoing port fees are payable on departure, this will be dependent on the port and shipper.
Your import costs, THC, agent and customs clearance are billed by us on arrival or paid locally.
Once your booking has been confirmed, we shall provide you with payment instructions, and confirm how and when any fees are to be paid.
*Note the Original BL and cargo will not be released until all fees are paid.
How do I make payment?
Payments of outgoing fees can be transferred to us in British Pounds (£), US Dollars ($) and Euros (€). We hold accounts in all three currencies to reduce the costs of dealing with multiple currencies.
In some instances, we may ask you to make payments locally.
Payments of Import fees are normally paid locally, they include THC, Customs fees and agents fees if applicable.
Detailed payment instructions will be provided with your booking confirmation.
Are the prices / rates fixed?
The shipping rates may vary up until the point of departure. Normally shippers will fix rates around 30 days prior to departure but it is dependent on the shipper. In addition to this, the shipping rate may be quoted or settled in a different currency to yours so there may be exchange rate fluctuations.
Any fluctuations in exchange rates & currency charges will be borne by the client.
Why ship cars with us?
Competitive Pricing
We offer fair and reasonable pricing for our services and negotiate rates with our partners to provide you the best possible price.
If you already have a quotation, we will do our best to match or beat any valid quotation.
Unrivaled Expertise
We have the knowledge, information and the contacts to ensure your vehicle safely reaches its destination. We can advise on permanent & temporary Import requirements, Carnet Requirements, Local laws and customs, Insurance providers and Local agents & partners.
Personal Service
We specialise in shipping vehicles, whether for touring purposes, expeditions or for business.
Every shipment is treated equally no matter the size.
Trusted Agents
We only use known / trusted agents to clear your vehicle. This helps avoid unexpected costs and complications.
Communication
We believe communication is of the utmost importance. During the shipping process we will keep you informed every step of the way.
We understand your needs
We have shipped our own vehicle to many places around the world, and fully understand your needs and requirements as a customer.
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Office Hours
We work in the United Kingdom Monday – Friday 9am to 5pm (Time Zone United Kingdom) Closed on Public Holidays & Weekends
UK : +44 (0) 203 787 4201
US : +1 917-781-4536
E : [email protected]