International Truck Shipping Services

The Complete Guide to International Truck Shipping

Shipping a truck internationally is a significant logistical operation that differs considerably from standard car shipping. The size, weight, and commercial nature of trucks demand specialised knowledge and careful planning to ensure a cost-effective, safe, and compliant shipment.

At ship cars ltd, we have extensive experience in handling all types of commercial vehicles, from rigid lorries and tractor units to tippers and refuse trucks. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the key considerations, focusing on the optimal shipping methods and the critical preparation required.

Part 1: Choosing Your Shipping Method: RORO vs. Flat Rack

The most important decision you will make is how your truck will be transported across the ocean. The choice primarily depends on whether you are shipping a single truck or multiple units, and the truck’s operational status.

1. Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) Shipping

This method involves driving the truck onto a specialised car carrier vessel.

• The Process: The truck is driven up the vessel’s ramp, securely parked and lashed down on a dedicated deck, and driven off at the destination port. RORO shipping
• Suitability:
  • Ideal for single, self-propelled trucks that are in full working order.
  • Best for trucks that are within the size and weight limits of the RORO vessel’s ramps and decks.
• Pros:
  • Highly Cost-Effective: For a single, driveable truck, this is almost always the most economical option.
  • Efficient Loading: The process is quick and does not require expensive lifting equipment like cranes.
• Cons:
  • Operational Dependency: The truck must be fully operational to drive on and off the vessel.
  • Exposure: The vehicle is exposed to the elements and salt spray during the voyage.
  • No Personal/Cargo Items: The truck’s cargo hold must be completely empty.

2. Flat Rack Container Shipping

This method involves loading the truck onto a specialised open-sided or flat-bed container.

• The Process: The truck is driven or lifted onto the flat rack, which is then securely lashed and often covered with a tarpaulin. Multiple trucks can be loaded onto larger platforms or in a “stacked” configuration if height allows. car shipping
• Suitability:
  • Essential for non-running trucks.
  • Ideal for oversized trucks that exceed RORO size/weight limits (e.g., extra-wide, extra-tall, or overweight vehicles).
  • Excellent for shipping multiple trucks efficiently, as they can be loaded onto a single, large platform.
• Pros:
  • Versatility: Can accommodate virtually any size or type of truck, including non-runners.
  • Multi-Vehicle Efficiency: More cost-effective than RORO for shipping several trucks simultaneously.
  • Better Protection: While still exposed, the ability to tarp the load offers more protection than standard RORO. car shipping services
• Cons:
  • Higher Cost: For a single, standard truck, this is more expensive than RORO.
  • Complex Securing: Requires expert lashing and securing to the container base.

RORO vs. Flat Rack: Decision Table

Part 2: Loading the Truck for Shipping: A Critical Process

How your truck is prepared and loaded is paramount for its safety during the voyage. The forces experienced at sea are far greater than those on the road.

Preparation on Your Part (Before Collection)

1. Thorough Cleaning:
   • The truck must be clean inside and out. This is not just for appearance; it is a strict biosecurity requirement.
   • Pay special attention to the undercarriage, wheel arches, and cargo hold. All dirt, mud, and plant matter must be removed. Failure to do so will result in expensive professional cleaning at the destination port and potential delays.
2. Fluid Levels:
   • Fuel Tank: Must be no more than ¼ full. This is a mandatory safety regulation for all ocean transport.
   • Other Fluids: Check for any leaks from hydraulic systems, engine oil, or coolant. A leaky vehicle can be rejected . International Container Shipping
3. Mechanical Preparation:
   • Disconnect the Battery: To prevent drain and electrical issues.
   • Disable Alarms/Immobilisers: Ensure the truck can be moved and started by port personnel without security systems causing problems.
   • Tyres: Inflate to normal road pressure.
4. Empty the Truck:
   • The cargo hold must be completely empty. No tools, personal belongings, or cargo can be left inside.
   • The cab should also be empty of all non-essential personal items.
5. Documentation:
   • Have the original V5C logbook (or VTG6 for HGVs) and a spare set of keys ready for the driver.

The Professional Loading Process

Once your truck arrives at the port, our team or the shipping line will handle the loading with expert precision.

• For RORO Loading:
  1. A professional driver will conduct a final inspection.
  2. The truck will be driven onto the vessel via the stern or side ramp.
  3. Onboard, the driver will park the truck in its designated spot.
  4. The ship’s crew will then securely lash the truck to the deck using heavy-duty chains, straps, and shackles attached to dedicated lashing points on the vehicle and deck. This prevents any movement during the voyage. Roll On Roll Off Shipping
• For Flat Rack Loading:
  1. The truck is driven or winched onto the flat rack container. For non-runners, a crane may be used.
  2. Once positioned correctly, a team of experts will secure the truck to the container.
  3. This involves using heavy-duty chains, binders, and straps to fix the truck’s axles and frame to the strong-points on the flat rack.
  4. The load is often covered with a protective tarpaulin to shield it from the worst of the sea spray and weather.

Additional Key Considerations for Truck Shipping

• Insurance: Your domestic commercial vehicle policy will not cover international sea transit. It is essential to take out a separate Marine Cargo Insurance policy to protect your valuable asset against damage, theft, or total loss during the voyage. We can arrange this for you.
• Import Regulations: Research the destination country’s rules thoroughly. Key points include:
  • Age Restrictions: Some countries prohibit the import of commercial vehicles over a certain age.
  • Emissions Standards: Your truck may need to comply with local emissions laws (e.g., Euro 6).
  • Duties and Taxes: These can be significant for commercial vehicles. The importer is liable for all costs.
• Bill of Lading: We will recommend using a Telex Release (electronic Bill of Lading) to speed up the documentation process at the destination and prevent delays. How to Avoid Demurrage Charges

Your Pre-Shipment Truck Checklist

• Chosen the correct shipping method (RORO or Flat Rack).
• Cleaned the truck thoroughly, including the undercarriage and cargo hold.
• Reduced the fuel tank to ¼ full or less.
• Emptied the cargo hold and cab of all items.
• Disconnected the battery and disabled the alarm.
• Checked for fluid leaks and inflated tyres.
• Prepared the original V5C/VTG6 and spare keys.
• Arranged adequate Marine Insurance.
• Researched destination country import regulations.

Ship with Confidence

Shipping a truck requires a partner who understands the nuances of commercial vehicle logistics. At Ship Cars Ltd, we manage the entire process, from advising on the optimal shipping method and preparation to handling port logistics and documentation.

 Contact us today for a detailed, transparent quote. Let us ensure your truck arrives at its destination safely, securely, and on time.