Roll On Roll Off Shipping Services To and From the UK

Get A Quote Today! Your RORO Car Shipping Services

Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) shipping is one of the most common and cost-effective methods for transporting vehicles across the sea motorhomes. It is a specialised service used for everything from personal relocations to commercial vehicle exports. However, it operates under strict rules and is not suitable for every type of vehicle or situation trucks.

At Ship Cars Ltd, we provide transparent advice and reliable RORO services. This guide explains exactly how RORO works, its key benefits, and the critical restrictions you must be aware of before booking.

Part 1: What is RORO Shipping?

RORO stands for “Roll-on/Roll-off.” It describes a method where vehicles are driven under their own power onto a specialised vessel, parked and secured inside the ship’s cargo decks, and then driven off at the destination port.

• The Process: Your vehicle is driven to the port by you or a nominated driver. At the port, it is inspected, processed, and then driven onto the ship by a qualified stevedore (dock worker). It is parked in a designated bay, often with other vehicles tightly packed around it. Upon arrival, the process is reversed.

Part 2: The Key Advantages of RORO Shipping

RORO remains a popular choice for specific types of shipments due to its distinct benefits the cheapest option when shipping a vehicle abroad.

1. Cost-Effectiveness

• RORO is typically the most economical method for sea freight. Because the shipping line can transport a high volume of vehicles efficiently, the cost per unit is lower than alternative methods like container shipping.

2. Efficiency and Simplicity

• The loading and unloading process is fast and logistically straightforward, which can lead to more frequent sailings and shorter overall transit times compared to other methods.

3. Proven and Reliable

• RORO is a well-established industry standard with dedicated vessels and port facilities designed specifically for this purpose, ensuring a reliable service on major shipping routes.

Part 3: Critical Restrictions and What Cannot Be Shipped

This is the most important section. RORO shipping is governed by stringent safety and operational rules. Failure to comply will result in your vehicle being refused loading, often at your own cost and inconvenience.

1. Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Hybrids

Rule: Most RORO carriers prohibit or heavily restrict the shipment of fully electric vehicles (EVs) and certain hybrid vehicles.

• Why: This is a critical safety regulation. The lithium-ion batteries in EVs are classified as dangerous goods. In the rare event of a thermal runaway (fire), these fires are extremely difficult to extinguish in an enclosed ship hold and pose a catastrophic risk to the vessel, crew, and other cargo Plant machinery.
• Your Options: If you need to ship an EV, you must use container shipping, where specific dangerous goods protocols can be followed. Always declare your vehicle’s power source accurately when obtaining a quote.

2. Personal Belongings and Goods

Rule: In most cases, vehicles cannot be loaded with any personal goods or belongings.

• Why: There are several reasons for this strict rule:
  • Insurance: The shipping line’s insurance covers the vehicle only, not its contents. Any personal items left inside are not insured against loss or damage.
  • Customs: Personal goods inside a vehicle complicate customs declarations in the destination country and can be considered illegal smuggling, leading to severe fines and seizure.
  • Safety and Stability: Loose items can shift during the voyage, potentially damaging the vehicle’s interior or becoming a hazard.
  • Weight and Distribution: Unaccounted-for weight can affect the ship’s carefully calculated load distribution.
• The Only Exception: Some shipping lines may allow a very limited number of items that are considered part of the vehicle, such as a spare tyre or factory-fitted tools. However, this must be confirmed in writing with the shipping line beforehand. As a rule, the vehicle must be empty car shipping.

3. Non-Runners and Damaged Vehicles

Rule: Vehicles must be in full working order to be shipped via RORO.

• Why: The fundamental principle of RORO is that the vehicle can be driven safely under its own power onto and off the ship. A non-running or significantly damaged vehicle cannot be manoeuvred safely in the tight confines of the ship’s deck. It would become an obstruction and a hazard.
• What Constitutes a “Non-Runner”? This includes, but is not limited to, vehicles that:
  • Will not start or drive.
  • Have a seized engine or transmission.
  • Have significant steering or brake failure.
  • Have flat tyres that cannot hold air.
• Your Options: For non-running or damaged vehicles, your only sea freight option is container shipping, where the vehicle can be loaded using a crane or forklift.

Part 4: The Step-by-Step RORO Shipping Process

Step 1: Pre-Booking Checklist

Before you book, confirm your vehicle is eligible:

• It is not a fully electric vehicle (EV).
• It is in full working order (starts, drives, steers, brakes).
• You understand that no personal belongings can be left inside.

Step 2: Booking and Documentation

• Contact Ship Cars Ltd for a quote. You will need to provide the vehicle’s make, model, year, and dimensions.
• We will handle the booking with the shipping line and guide you on the required paperwork, which typically includes Australia, New Zealand, Cyprus, Namibia, South Africa, USA:
  • Original Vehicle Registration Document (V5C)
  • Copy of your Passport
  • Booking Confirmation
  • Customs Documents (e.g., C88/SAD for export from the UK)

Step 3: Vehicle Preparation for Port Delivery

• Clean the Vehicle: A clean car allows for an accurate inspection.
• Remove All Personal Belongings: The car must be completely empty.
• Check Fluid Levels: Ensure there are no leaks.
• Reduce Fuel: The fuel tank must be no more than 1/4 full for safety.
• Disable the Alarm: To prevent it from triggering during the voyage.
• Document Condition: Take date-stamped photos of the vehicle from all angles.

Step 4: Delivering Your Vehicle to the Port

• You or a nominated driver will deliver the vehicle to the designated port at the appointed time.
• A port agent will conduct a thorough inspection, noting any existing damage on a form called the “Vehicle Condition Report.” You must check this report carefully before signing it.

Step 5: Ocean Transit and Collection

• The shipping line loads the vehicle onto the vessel. The transit time depends on the destination.
• Upon arrival, the consignee (the person receiving the vehicle) will present the required documents to the destination port authorities to clear the vehicle.
• The vehicle is then driven off the ship and collected.

Part 5: RORO vs. Container Shipping: A Quick Comparison

Part 6: Essential Pre-Shipment Checklist

Eligibility Confirmation:

• My vehicle is not a fully electric vehicle (EV).
• My vehicle is in full working order (starts, drives, stops).
• I understand that no personal goods can be left inside the vehicle.

Documentation:

• Original V5C logbook is ready.
• Copy of Passport is available.
• Booking confirmation is received and understood.

Vehicle Preparation:

• Vehicle is thoroughly cleaned (inside and out).
• All personal belongings have been removed.
• Fuel tank is no more than 1/4 full.
• Alarm has been disabled.
• Date-stamped photos of the vehicle’s condition have been taken.

Part 7: Common Questions Answered

Can I ship a hybrid car via RORO?

This depends on the shipping line. Some may allow conventional hybrids (not plug-in), but many are becoming increasingly restrictive. Full declaration of the vehicle type is essential, and approval from the shipping line must be obtained in writing before booking.

What happens if my car breaks down after I’ve dropped it at the port?

If the vehicle becomes a non-runner after the inspection but before loading, you will be responsible for the cost of recovering it from the port and repairing it. It will not be loaded onto the ship.

Is my car insured during RORO shipping?

The shipping line has limited liability for damage caused by their negligence. We strongly recommend taking out a separate comprehensive marine insurance policy to cover your vehicle for its full value against all risks during transit.

Let Ship Cars Ltd Manage Your RORO Shipment

Navigating the strict rules of RORO shipping can be complex. Our team at Ship Cars Ltd ensures a smooth process by:

• Providing Clear Guidance: We confirm your vehicle’s eligibility and explain all restrictions upfront.
• Managing the Booking: We handle all communication and documentation with the shipping line.
• Offering Insurance: We can arrange comprehensive transit insurance for your peace of mind.

If your vehicle is eligible for RORO, it is an excellent, cost-effective choice. Contact us today for a transparent quote and let our experts handle your vehicle’s journey.