Digital RoRo booking process - the new standard for international vehicle transport
August 28, 2025
Reading time: 3 minutes
The logistics industry is facing a digital transformation - and RoRo shipping is no exception. The digital RoRo booking process is revolutionising the way vehicles are shipped around the world today. Instead of time-consuming paper forms and manual arrangements, the focus is now on automated processes, real-time information and user-friendly booking platforms.
But what does this mean for you as a shipper? In this article, we explain how the digital RoRo booking process works, what you should look out for and how you can make the most of the benefits of digitalisation.
What makes the digital RoRo booking process so efficient?
At the centre of the digital RoRo booking process is an end-to-end, online workflow - from the enquiry to the delivery of the vehicle. This results in numerous advantages:
Speed: Bookings and offers within a few hours
Transparency: Clear status overviews and documentation of all steps
Availability: Access to all data around the clock
Reduced error rate: Automated plausibility checks
For companies with regular shipments, but also for private individuals with one-off transports, the digital process provides planning security and convenience.
The most important steps in the digital RoRo process
1. online enquiry with all relevant data
The shipment begins with the entry of all transport-relevant information:
Vehicle type (car, lorry, construction machine, motorhome, etc.)
Dimensions, weight, technical features
Port of departure and destination
Desired period
The digital screen guides you through all input fields and recognises common errors automatically.
2. offer preparation & booking confirmation
A personalised offer will be created after your request has been submitted. This is usually only valid for a limited period of time, as freight rates can change. If approved, the booking is made directly in the portal.
Your vehicle will be dropped off at the terminal in the harbour. It will be there:
Measured and weighed
Visually inspected (condition check)
Digitally entered into the loading system
The harbour team then takes over the roll-on - the vehicle is driven directly on board.
6. real-time tracking of the shipment
You can check the status of your vehicle online during the crossing. Most providers offer a login portal with real-time data on the ship's location, estimated time of arrival and notifications in the event of delays.
7. unloading & handling in the country of destination
At the port of destination, the vehicle is unloaded and made ready for collection. Customs clearance can also be prepared digitally in advance or handled by an agent to save time.
Digital RoRo booking - who benefits most?
Companies with fleet shipping (e.g. dealers, haulage companies)
Exporting companies with regular demand
Private individuals with individual vehicles (e.g. moving abroad)
Specialist hauliers who regularly ship construction machinery, trucks or motorhomes
Advantages at a glance
Advantage
Description of the
Time saving
No long queries or waiting times
Flexibility
Change options in the booking portal
Error avoidance
Automatic checks of vehicle data
Transparency
Access to all processes in the customer account
Planning security
Clear time windows & tracking systems
Checklist - preparing for your digital RoRo booking
Obtain a quote with exact vehicle data
Upload documents in the customer portal
Hand over the vehicle ready to roll, clean and empty
Confirm submission deadline in good time
Save access data for tracking
Organise pick-up at the port of destination in good time
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
Which vehicles can be transported via the RoRo booking process?
All rolling vehicles - from cars to construction machinery.
What happens if my vehicle is not rollable?
In this case, special authorisation is required. Please contact us in good time.
Do I have to return the vehicle to the harbour myself?
No, you can also appoint an authorised person or have a collection organised.
How can I ensure that all documents are correct?
The booking platform gives you direct feedback if something is missing or incomplete.
What does a RoRo shipment cost?
This depends heavily on the destination, vehicle size and season. A customised offer is required.
Conclusion
The digital RoRo booking process is much more than a technical upgrade - it is a real efficiency booster for the entire transport process. Today, you can plan, control and track shipments with just a few clicks. This not only saves time, but also resources. ODS Orient supports you with experience and digital expertise at every step of your RoRo shipment.
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.
Do you have any questions or would you like to make use of our RoRo service?
International shipping regulations are on the brink of significant change. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has adopted new CO₂ intensity targets that will apply from 2026. These changes will particularly affect exporters that rely on international maritime trade. In this article, you will learn what the 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations mean for your company and how you can best prepare for them. [...]
Anyone who wants to ship their motorhome abroad - whether for a long-distance trip, a long-term stay or international resale - is faced with a key question: container vs RoRo for motorhomes? Both transport methods have their advantages and disadvantages, which depend heavily on the destination, the size of the vehicle and personal requirements. In this article, we show [...]