Car Shipping Options

Car Shipping Methods: Your Guide to International Vehicle Transport

Choosing the right method to ship your car is the most critical decision you will make in the process. The best option depends on your vehicle’s type, value, and destination, as well as your budget and timeline. For international moves, the choice primarily comes down to two main maritime shipping methods: Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) and Container Shipping.

At Ship Cars Ltd, we provide clear, expert advice to help you select the perfect shipping solution. This guide breaks down the key international methods, their pros and cons, and which one is right for your vehicle Ro-Ro vehicle shipping.

Part 1: An Overview of International Car Shipping

International vehicle transport involves moving your car across borders, typically over sea. This is a complex process governed by logistics, customs regulations, and strict safety protocols shipped in a container.

The Two Main Sea Freight Methods:

1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO): Your vehicle is driven onto a specialised vessel.
2. Container Shipping: Your vehicle is loaded into a standard shipping container.

The choice between them hinges on a balance of cost, convenience, and protection.

Part 2: Roll-on/Roll-Off (RORO) Shipping

RORO is the most common method for shipping standard, driveable vehicles across the globe.

How RORO Shipping Works

The process is in the name. Your car is driven onto a large, multi-storey car carrier vessel at the departure port. It is securely parked and strapped down amongst hundreds of other vehicles. At the destination port, it is driven off the ship by port personnel.

Key Characteristics of RORO:

• Vehicle Condition: Must be fully driveable (a “runner”).
• Personal Belongings: Strictly prohibited. The vehicle must be empty.
• Protection: The vehicle is exposed to the marine environment (salt air, weather) inside the ship’s hold.
• Loading: Driven on and off by port stevedores.

Advantages of RORO Shipping

• Cost-Effective: It is almost always the most economical option for sea freight due to high-volume efficiency.
• Efficient: The loading and unloading process is fast, which can lead to quicker transit times.
• Widely Available: Frequent sailings on all major international shipping routes.

Disadvantages of RORO Shipping

• Limited Protection: The vehicle is not enclosed, leaving it susceptible to weather and incidental contact.
• Strict Restrictions:
  • No non-runners: The car must be able to drive on and off the ship under its own power.
  • No electric vehicles (EVs): Most RORO carriers prohibit EVs due to the fire risk from their lithium-ion batteries.
  • No personal goods: Nothing can be left inside the car.
• Less Control: You have no control over what other vehicles are parked near yours.

Best For RORO Shipping:

• Standard, driveable petrol or diesel cars.
• Clients on a budget for whom cost is the primary concern.
• Vehicles without significant modifications.

Part 3: Container Shipping

Container shipping offers a secure, enclosed environment for your vehicle. It is the premium choice for international transport cheaper way of shipping your vehicle.

How Container Shipping Works

Your car is loaded into a standard 20ft or 40ft steel shipping container. This container is then lifted onto a cargo ship and stacked with thousands of other containers for the ocean crossing. There are two main configurations:

1. Sole-Use Container: Your vehicle is the only cargo in the container. It can be either:
   • Tied down using specialised straps fixed to the container floor.
   • Crated in a custom-built wooden frame for absolute maximum protection (for high-value classics).
2. Shared Container (LCL – Less than Container Load): Your vehicle shares a 40ft container with another vehicle or cargo to split the cost.

Key Characteristics of Container Shipping:

• Vehicle Condition: Can accommodate both runners and non-runners.
• Personal Belongings: A limited amount of personal effects can be shipped inside the vehicle (subject to customs rules and declaration).
• Protection: Fully enclosed from the elements, handling, and pilferage.
• Loading: Loaded using a ramp (for runners) or a crane/forklift (for non-runners).

Advantages of Container Shipping

• Maximum Security & Protection: The steel container shields your vehicle from saltwater, rain, sun, and wind.
• Versatility: It is the only option for non-running, damaged, or modified vehicles.
• Accommodates All Vehicle Types: The only safe way to ship electric vehicles (EVs) via sea freight.
• Allows Personal Effects: You can often ship a limited number of belongings inside the car.

Disadvantages of Container Shipping

• Higher Cost: Significantly more expensive than RORO shipping.
• Longer Process: The process of packing and securing the container can lead to slightly longer lead times.
• Less Frequent: Sailings can be less frequent than dedicated RORO services.

Best For Container Shipping:

• High-value, luxury, and classic cars.
• Electric Vehicles (EVs).
• Non-running or project cars.
• Heavily modified vehicles.
• Clients shipping personal belongings with their car.

Part 4: RORO vs. Container Shipping: A Detailed Comparison

Part 5: The Step-by-Step International Shipping Process

Regardless of the method, the process follows a similar structure.

Step 1: Pre-Booking Preparation

• Determine your vehicle’s condition (runner/non-runner).
• Decide on your budget and timeline.
• Research import regulations for your destination country.

Step 2: Choosing Your Method and Getting a Quote

• Contact Ship Cars Ltd. We will advise on whether RORO or Container is best for you and provide a transparent quote.

Step 3: Vehicle Preparation

• For All Methods:
  • Clean the vehicle thoroughly.
  • Remove all personal belongings (mandatory for RORO, recommended for Container).
  • Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank or less.
  • Disable the alarm.
  • Take comprehensive photos of the vehicle’s condition.
• For Container Shipping (if shipping belongings): Create a detailed packing list.

Step 4: Collection and Documentation

• We arrange collection from your address or a designated meeting point.
• You provide the necessary documents (Original V5C logbook, passport copy, etc.).
• A pre-shipment inspection is conducted, and a condition report is signed.

Step 5: Customs and Ocean Transit

• Your vehicle is transported to the port.
• It is loaded via the chosen method (RORO or Container).
• The shipping company handles the UK export customs declaration.
• Your vehicle begins its ocean voyage.

Step 6: Arrival and Delivery

• Upon arrival, the destination customs clearance is handled by your appointed agent.
• Once cleared, your vehicle is delivered to your specified address.
• You inspect the vehicle against the initial condition report and sign for its receipt.

Part 6: Which Shipping Method is Right For You? A Quick Guide

Choose RORO Shipping if:

• Your vehicle is a standard, driveable car (not an EV).
• Your primary concern is finding the most cost-effective option.
• You do not need to ship any personal belongings inside the car.
• You are comfortable with your vehicle being transported in an open hold.

Choose Container Shipping if:

• Your vehicle is a high-value classic, luxury car, or EV.
• Your vehicle is non-running or significantly modified.
• Maximum protection from the elements is your top priority.
• You need to ship a limited number of personal effects with the vehicle.

Part 7: Common Questions Answered

Can I track my vehicle during shipping?

Yes. With both RORO and Container services, you will typically receive a booking reference and details of the vessel. You can use online maritime tracking services to follow the ship’s progress.

How is my car insured during international transit?

Your vehicle is covered by our comprehensive transit insurance policy for its trade value while in our care. We strongly recommend this, as the shipping line’s liability is very limited. An insurance excess will apply in the event of a claim.

What is the cheapest way to ship a car internationally?

For a standard, driveable car, RORO shipping is almost always the most economical method.

What is the safest way to ship a car internationally?

Container shipping (Sole-Use) provides the highest level of security and protection, making it the safest method available.

Let Ship Cars Ltd Navigate Your International Move

Choosing between RORO and Container shipping is a significant decision. Our team at Ship Cars Ltd will provide the expert guidance you need by:

• Providing a Clear Recommendation on the optimal method for your specific vehicle and needs.
• Offering Transparent Pricing for both RORO and Container services.
• Managing the Entire Process from collection and documentation to port logistics.
• Ensuring Full Compliance with all international shipping and safety regulations.

Don’t leave your vehicle’s international journey to chance. Contact Ship Cars Ltd today for a professional consultation and a fixed-price, no-obligation quote.