International Roll-on Roll-off (RORO) Car Shipping — Fast, Reliable Services Worldwide

What Is RORO Shipping?

RORO stands for Roll-on/Roll-off. It is an ocean freight method where wheeled vehicles are driven directly onto a specialist vessel at the departure port, secured on board for the voyage, and driven off again at the destination port. There are no cranes, no crates, and no containers involved — the vehicle moves on its own wheels from port ramp to ship deck.

RORO vessels are purpose-built multi-deck ships designed specifically to carry cars, vans, SUVs, trucks, buses, and other wheeled cargo. The largest vessels in operation today carry thousands of vehicles simultaneously, running on fixed international routes with scheduled weekly or monthly departure dates. For any standard roadworthy vehicle, RORO is the most practical and economical method of international car shipping available.

How Does the RORO Shipping Process Work?

Understanding the step-by-step process helps you prepare your vehicle correctly and avoid delays at the departure port.

Step 1 — Vehicle Collection or Drop-Off
Your vehicle is either collected from your address via a professional transporter or delivered directly to the nominated departure port terminal.

Step 2 — Pre-Shipment Inspection
At the port terminal, a condition report is completed, fuel levels are checked and reduced to approximately one quarter tank, and the vehicle is handed to the terminal handling team.

Step 3 — Vessel Loading
Trained port staff drive your vehicle aboard the RORO vessel and secure it on deck. Vessels depart on confirmed scheduled sailing dates.

Step 4 — Sea Transit
Your vehicle travels secured on board the vessel for the full duration of the voyage. Transit times vary by destination — see the table below.

Step 5 — Arrival and Customs Clearance
On arrival at the destination port, your vehicle is discharged and made available for customs clearance and collection. Destination requirements vary by country.

RORO vs Container Shipping — Which Is Right for Your Vehicle?

The choice between RORO and container comes down to your vehicle type, condition, and budget. Neither method is universally better — the right one depends on your specific situation.

RORO is the right choice when your vehicle is in full running condition, you are shipping a standard car, SUV, van, or light truck, and cost efficiency is a priority.

Container shipping becomes the better choice when your vehicle is a classic car, high-value, non-runner, or electric vehicle — or when you need to include personal effects alongside the vehicle.

What Are the Rules Before Shipping by RORO?

Every RORO shipment has standard requirements that apply across all routes and all shipping lines. Non-compliance at the port causes delays and additional costs.

• Vehicle must be in running condition — RORO requires the vehicle to be driven on and off the vessel under its own power
• Fuel level must be reduced to approximately one quarter of a tank or less before port check-in
• No personal belongings inside the vehicle — this is a universal shipping line rule on all RORO services globally
• Electric vehicles are not permitted on RORO vessels due to battery fire-safety regulations — EVs must ship by container
• Hybrid vehicles are accepted on most RORO routes — confirm on a destination-by-destination basis before booking
• Export documentation must be complete and in order before the vessel departs — your shipping agent manages this as standard