What If My Vehicle Doesn't Start at the Port? A Guide to RORO Shipping Issues
The moment of truth at the port can be nerve-wracking. After a long sea voyage, you’re expecting to drive your vehicle off the Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO) vessel under its own power. But what happens if you turn the key and nothing happens? A non-starting vehicle is one of the most common and serious problems encountered in RORO shipping, but it is not insurmountable if you are prepared.
At ship cars ltd, we have managed thousands of vehicle shipments and understand the procedures inside out. This guide explains exactly what happens, why it’s a critical issue, and the steps you can take to prevent and resolve it.
Part 1: Why a Non-Starting Vehicle is a Critical Problem in RORO
RORO shipping is an efficient, drive-on/drive-off operation. The entire process is designed around the principle that vehicles are mobile. A vehicle that cannot move under its own power disrupts this flow and becomes a major liability.
The Core Operational Challenge:
- Blocking the Flow: A stationary vehicle blocks the path for all other vehicles behind it on the vessel. It creates a logistical bottleneck that delays the entire unloading process for the shipping line.
- Safety Hazard: Ports and vessels are high-risk environments with heavy machinery, limited space, and strict schedules. A stranded vehicle poses a significant safety and security risk.
- Requires Special Equipment: Moving a non-operational vehicle requires a specialist team and equipment, such as a terminal tractor (“pusher truck”) or a forklift, which incurs substantial costs.
Because of these factors, shipping lines have zero tolerance for vehicles that cannot be driven off under their own power.
Part 2: The Immediate Consequences and Costs
If your vehicle fails to start at the discharge port, a standardised but expensive procedure is triggered immediately.
- The “Lift-On/Lift-Off” (LO/LO) Charge
This is the primary financial penalty. The shipping line will arrange for a mobile crane or heavy forklift to lift your stationary vehicle off the vessel and place it in a designated area of the terminal. car shipping
- Cost: This is not a minor fee. LO/LO charges typically range from £500 to £2,000 or more, depending on the port, the size of your vehicle, and the complexity of the operation.
- Responsibility: This charge is 100% the responsibility of the vehicle owner. You will be invoiced for it, and you must pay it before the vehicle is released from the port.
- Terminal Handling and Demurrage Fees
- Special Handling Surcharge: The port may levy an additional fee for the extra labour and planning required to deal with a non-standard shipment.
- Accruing Demurrage: The clock on “free time” starts as soon as the vessel docks. While your vehicle is being processed for a LO/LO operation, it is not being cleared through customs. This delay can cause it to sit in the port longer, incurring daily demurrage (storage) fees on top of the LO/LO charge.
- Potential for Damage
While operators are professional, a LO/LO operation carries a higher risk of cosmetic or mechanical damage compared to simply driving the vehicle off. The use of slings and chains can potentially cause damage to bodywork, bumpers, or wheel arches if not performed with extreme care. car shipping services
Part 3: Common Reasons Why a Vehicle Fails to Start After Shipping
Understanding the causes can help you prevent the situation. The most common issues are related to the vehicle’s electrical system and fuel.
| Common Cause | Description | Prevention Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Flat or Dead Battery | The most frequent cause. The battery may have been old, or a parasitic drain (e.g., from an alarm) flattened it during the voyage. | Disconnect the negative battery terminal before shipping. For modern cars, use a battery maintainer or consider a new battery if it’s old. |
| Fuel Issues | Some ports require a near-empty fuel tank (usually no more than 1/4 full) for safety. If you ship it with very little fuel, condensation can form and cause problems. | Ship with the recommended fuel level (e.g., 1/4 tank). Add a fuel stabiliser if the vehicle will be in transit for a long time. |
| Fuses and Electronics | Voltage spikes or simply the long period of inactivity can cause fuses to blow or electronic control units (ECUs) to glitch. | Check all main fuses upon arrival. A simple “reset” by disconnecting and reconnecting the battery can sometimes resolve ECU issues. |
| Ignition and Security Systems | Complex immobilisers and security systems can sometimes malfunction after a power loss or period of inactivity. | Ensure you have all keys and key fobs. Know the procedure to reset your car’s immobiliser/security system. |
| General Wear and Tear | A weak starter motor, failing alternator, or corroded electrical connections can be pushed to failure by the shipping process. | Have the vehicle serviced and inspected by a mechanic before shipping to identify and rectify any potential issues. |
Part 4: Your Action Plan: What to Do If Your Vehicle Won’t Start
If you are faced with a non-starting vehicle, do not panic. Follow this structured action plan. International Container Shipping
- Immediate Actions at the Port
- Do Not Delay Informing Officials: Immediately inform the port representative or your destination agent. Do not continue trying to start the vehicle for a prolonged period, as this will delay the unloading process and increase penalties.
- Stay Calm and Cooperative: Arguing with port staff will not help. They are following strict safety and operational protocols.
- Authorise the LO/LO: You will have to authorise the LO/LO operation to get the vehicle off the ship. There is no alternative. Your destination agent can often handle this communication for you.
- Engage Your Destination Agent
This is where a professional agent proves their value.
- They Manage the Process: They will liaise with the port and shipping line to coordinate the LO/LO, get accurate cost quotes, and handle the paperwork.
- They Can Source a Mechanic: A good agent will have a network of local, trusted mobile mechanics who can be dispatched to the port to diagnose and fix the issue once the vehicle is on the ground.
- Diagnosis and Repair
Once the vehicle is discharged and placed in a holding area, a mechanic can attend.
- Basic Checks: They will perform the standard checks: battery voltage, fuses, fuel, and spark.
- Jump Start: A simple jump-start or a new battery may be all that is required. However, ports may not allow this on the main terminal for safety reasons; it may need to be done in a designated area.
- Repair or Tow: If the issue is more complex, the mechanic may be able to perform a basic repair on-site. If not, you will need to arrange and pay for a tow truck to take the vehicle to a local garage for repairs. Roll On Roll Off Shipping
Part 5: The Ultimate Solution: Proactive Prevention
The only way to guarantee you avoid these costly and stressful problems is through diligent preparation before the vehicle is collected in the UK.
Your Pre-Shipment Vehicle Preparation Checklist:
- Battery:
- Disconnect It: This is the single most effective step. Disconnect the negative terminal to prevent any drain from alarm systems or onboard computers. Secure the terminal so it cannot make contact during transit.
- Test and Replace: If your battery is more than 3-4 years old, consider replacing it before shipping. The cost of a new battery is far less than a LO/LO charge.
- Alternative: For newer vehicles that may not like being disconnected (e.g., losing ECU settings), a fully charged, high-quality battery is essential.
- Fuel:
- Follow the shipping line’s instructions precisely. This is typically a 1/4 tank maximum.
- Do not ship with a near-empty tank, as this promotes condensation.
- Mechanical Fitness:
- Service: Conduct a basic pre-shipment service check. Ensure the vehicle starts reliably, idles smoothly, and has no known pre-existing faults.
- Tyres: Inflate tyres to the correct pressure. Flat tyres can also cause a vehicle to be deemed immovable.
- Documentation:
- Keep your vehicle’s handbook in the glove box. It may contain vital reset procedures for immobilisers or ECUs.
- Ensure your destination agent has your contact number and knows the make/model of the vehicle. How to Avoid Demurrage Charges
Part 6: How Ship Cars Ltd Helps You Mitigate This Risk
We build risk prevention into our standard service to protect your vehicle and your wallet.
- Pre-Shipment Guidance: We provide all clients with a clear, written checklist for vehicle preparation, emphasising the critical importance of battery disconnection and mechanical checks.
- Expert Destination Network: Our partnered agents at the destination port are experienced in handling these exact situations. They can quickly arrange for a LO/LO and a mechanic, minimising delays and controlling costs.
- Transparent Communication: We ensure you are fully aware of the risks and the procedures, so you are never surprised by a potential problem.
Part 7: Common Questions Answered
Will my insurance cover the LO/LO charges?
Almost certainly not. Standard marine cargo insurance covers damage from external events like accidents, fire, or weather. It does not cover mechanical failure or costs resulting from your vehicle’s pre-existing condition or lack of preparation.
What if the vehicle was damaged during the LO/LO operation?
Any new damage caused by the port during the lifting operation should be noted on the discharge report. You must inspect the vehicle thoroughly and file a claim with the port’s liability insurance or through your own marine insurance if the damage is significant.
Can I just push the car off the ship?
No. Port and vessel safety regulations strictly prohibit this. The movement of all vehicles on the ramp and terminal is controlled and must be powered for precise control.
My classic car is in perfect mechanical order. Is it still a risk?
Yes. Older vehicles can be more susceptible to issues from moisture and inactivity. Extra care should be taken to protect the ignition system and ensure the battery is disconnected.
Let Ship Cars Ltd Ensure a Smooth Port Arrival
A non-starting vehicle is a preventable problem. By choosing Ship Cars Ltd, you gain a partner dedicated to ensuring your vehicle is prepared correctly and that you have expert support on the ground at the destination, ready to act if the unexpected occurs.Contact us
Don’t let a dead battery turn into a four-figure port fee. Contact Ship Cars Ltd today for a shipping service that prioritises preparation, communication, and problem-solving from collection to delivery.