RoRo is the abbreviation for "Roll-on/Roll-off, a particular shipping way mainly concerning wheeled cargo, like cars, trucks, and heavy machinery. This efficient maritime transport system enables roll on roll off vehicles to be driven directly onto a vessel to be rolled off at their destination, simplifying the process of loading and unloading. The service has become popular for affordability and convenience, hence a favorite option among many vehicle owners and vehicle manufacturers. RoRo shipping is not new; it has existed for many decades- since the early 20th century when roll on and roll off ships were built to handle wheeled cargoes.
When comparing roll on roll off car shipping to container shipping, several factors come into play:
Feature |
RoRo Shipping |
Container Shipping |
Usage |
Primarily for vehicles and wheeled cargo |
For all types of cargo, including non-wheeled items |
Pros |
More cost-effective, simpler process, faster loading/unloading |
Greater security and flexibility in cargo types |
Cons |
Limited to wheeled cargo, fewer departure options |
Higher costs and more complex handling |
Generally speaking, RoRo shipping a car is more convenient and less expensive with regards to shipping vehicles. On the other hand, container shipping offers greater security for different types of cargo. However, it should be underlined that strong points of both options make them worth choosing for certain kinds of shipments.
The RoRo shipping process involves several key steps:
It is designed at minimum handling and at maximum efficiency; hence, it makes RoRo shipping the most sought-after options for vehicles shipped internationally. The minute level of involvement required by the RoRo method also reduces the possibilities of damage compared to other methods, which involve more handling.
Yes, RoRo shipping is safe. Most of the car manufacturing companies make use of roll on roll off ships to transport their new cars, which vouches for the dependability of this way of shipping. During transport, the cars are safely lashed onboard in the vessel, and the structure of RoRo ships ensures that the risk of vehicle damage is minimal. Safety measures, including fire suppression and training of the crew on how to deal with their cargo, further safeguard the cargo being transported by RoRo shipment. For instance, RoRo shipment vessels undergo routine inspection and maintenance so as to ensure that they remain seaworthy and the cargo they may carry remains safe.
RoRo shipping is suitable for a variety of self-propelled, wheeled vehicles, including:
Due to this flexibility, RoRo is an attractive option for owners who have just a single vehicle and companies that need to ship several units. Because RoRo shipping can accommodate a wide range of vehicle types, it has seen its application within a broad industrial base and consumer market as well.
Several U.S. cities have ports equipped for RoRo shipping, including:
These, among other terminals, provide an efficient means of conveyance in and out of the country with much ease to the rest of the world. Such RoRo ports in major cities in the U.S. provide an easy way for car owners to use this shipping method.
RoRo shipping offers several advantages:
Taken together, all of these advantages have increased demand for RoRo shipping from owners and companies looking for an overall better and more economically viable means for which their vehicles can be transported.
The RoRo shipping prices can vary based on several factors, including:
Generally, RoRo shipping prices are cheaper compared to container shipping and, therefore, will be more appealing to a lot of vehicle owners. In order to get an estimated RoRo shipping quote, use Bold Auto Transport’s car shipping cost calculator. Prices at the same time may vary depending on market conditions or other particularities of each shipment. To get detailed pricing for RoRo shipping, you are invited to contact a few major shipping companies or brokers who could offer quotes tailored to your needs and preferences.
RoRo shipment is designed for self-propelled, wheeled vehicles, like cars, trucks, SUVs, motor bikes, and heavy machinery.
It stands for "Roll-on/Roll-off" - it was really named according to the method of loading and unloading the cargo by just driving the vehicles on/off the vessel.
Generally speaking, nothing should be placed inside the car because it is against safety regulations; the car should be completely empty before driving into roll on roll off ships.
It can take up to a few days or about two weeks, based on distance and route taken.
Get your car ready by making sure the vehicle is in good running condition, removing all your personal things, and follow the shipping company's guidelines on the level of fuel and documentation.
