Anyone who wants to take a touring vehicle across the ocean - whether a campervan, panel van, alcove or expedition vehicle - is faced with the fundamental question: container vs RORO for motorhomes? Both methods have clear strengths, but also limitations. In this guide, we compare safety, handling, dimensions/limitations, procedures in the harbour, documents, transit times and cost factors. There's also a concrete checklist, a pros/cons table and an FAQ with schema markup for maximum findability.

Summary: RORO (roll-on/roll-off) is often the first choice for larger, mobile motorhomes with roof extensions or superstructures. Containers score highly for compact vans and maximum load compartmentalisation - provided the door opening and interior dimensions are suitable. Your individual vehicle profile is what counts when making the final decision.

How to make the right decision

The decision between container vs RORO for motorhomes depends primarily on four parameters:

• Vehicle dimensions (length/width/height) incl. attachments such as roof tent, solar panels, spare wheel carrier.
• Rolling ability (ready to drive, steer and brake) and ground clearance (ramp inclination).
• Safety and protection requirements (fully enclosed unit vs. vehicle deck).
• Route availability & transit times (direct run, transhipment, port rotation).

Option 1: Motorhome via RORO (roll-on/roll-off)

Principle: The vehicle is driven directly on board via a ramp, positioned on the vehicle deck according to the stowage plan and secured by the crew in accordance with the Cargo Securing Manual (CSM). This reduces crane handling and speeds up the harbour process.

Advantages of RORO

• Large tolerances for dimensions: Even high off-road motorhomes, alcoves and superstructures often fit without any problems.
• Less handling risk: no need to use a crane for the vehicle itself.
• Clear cut-offs & routines: Terminal processes are synchronised with vehicle flow.
• Plannable handling: boarding/de-boarding by trained staff.

RORO challenges

• The interior must be empty (no loose private items).
• Tank level usually limited to ≤ 25 %; observe the battery specifications of the shipping company.
• Deck environment: The vehicle is not in a "box", but secured on the deck/deck area.

Read more: What do I need to bear in mind for a RoRo shipment?

Option 2: Motorhome in a container (e.g. 40' high cube)

Principle: The vehicle is driven into a closed steel container or brought in using ramps/equipment and lashed down inside. The door opening and interior height are particularly important.

Typical reference value: Inside width approx. 2.35 m, height approx. 2.70 m, door opening approx. 2.34 m wide and approx. 2.58 m high. Please always check the actual specification.

Container advantages

• Closed unit: Maximum insulation against environmental influences.
• Additional protection against visual contact; seal/seal documents integrity.
• Intermodal continuation by rail/truck easily possible.

Container challenges

• Door opening as a bottleneck: Many campers fail due to door height/width or superstructures.
• Lashing/securing effort in the container (wooden wedges, straps, blockings).
• Handling/availability: special ramps, space required for packing, additional costs if necessary.

Pro/con table: Container vs RORO for motorhome

Safety and standardisation framework

• IMO - CTU Code
• CSS Code (IMO): Standard for safe stowage
• CSM: Ship-specific safety manual
• Terminal specifications: Fuel level, battery, photo log

Checklist: 12 steps to the right choice

1. Measure vehicle exactly (incl. attachments)
2. Note weight & axle load, VIN photo
3. Check rolling ability & ground clearance
4. Synchronise procedure (dimensions, structure)
5. Check routes & departures
6. Prepare documents
7. Empty the interior
8. Check fuel level & battery
9. Create photo protocol
10. Check transport insurance
11. Confirm cut-offs, book packing date
12. Carry out delivery on time

Practical examples

• Panel van ~2.55 m: Container possible
• Alcove with roof tent >2.70 m: RORO
• Expedition mobile: RORO
• Fully equipped van: Container with suitable dimensions

Operational process in the harbour

RORO - Handover

1. Check-in at the gate
2. CCR protocol & handover photos
3. Assign parking space, hand in keys
4. Loading & securing according to CSM

Container packing process

1. Provide container
2. Lashing with straps & wooden wedges
3. Seal & enclose packing list
4. Gate-in to the terminal

Cost factors (without prices)

• Dimensions & Method
• Route & harbour rotation
• Terminal handling
• Customs & Documents
• Insurance

Decision matrix

If you tick ≥ 3× "Yes" in a column, the procedure is usually set.

Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.