Short answer: Yes, you can ship a boat or yacht via RoRo. The boat is placed on a suitable trailer or a sturdy cradle and is rolled on board a Mafi trailer, secured with lashing and transported in the same way as a vehicle. RoRo is particularly suitable for boats that do not exceed standard height and width limits. Very large yachts, on the other hand, are transported using alternatives such as flat rack, lift-on/lift-off or float-in. Careful preparation, secure lashing and complete export documentation are essential.
The key points in 5 points
- RoRo is the simple solution for boats on trailers or cradles that are rolled on board using a Mafi trailer.
- Size and height limits are decisive, whether RoRo is suitable or whether an alternative is needed.
- Preparation is key: Empty the tanks, secure loose parts, cover the boat and make a record of it.
- Lashing on board Keeps the boat and cradle securely on deck in rough seas.
- Exports and documents must be available in full prior to loading.
How does the Ro-Ro shipment of a boat work?
Your boat is placed on a suitable boat trailer or a bespoke cradle. At the terminal, a Mafi trailer pulls this unit up the ramp and into the ship, where the boat and cradle are secured to lashing points. As nothing is lifted by a crane, the process is gentle and can be planned in advance. Our guide shows you how this works step by step: Guidance on RoRo bookings.
What are the size and height restrictions?
The key factor is the overall dimensions of the boat plus the trailer or cradle — particularly the height below deck. Smaller motorboats and sailing boats usually fit without any problems, whilst tall superstructures, masts or very wide hulls may prove too large. On sailing boats, the mast is usually laid down and secured separately. Please provide the dimensions and weight at an early stage so that the appropriate loading method can be determined.
How do I prepare a boat or yacht for shipping?
Keep fuel consumption to a minimum, secure or empty the fuel tanks and switch off the on-board electrical system. Loose items such as upholstery, electronics, dinghies or fenders should be stowed away or removed. Cover the hull to protect it from salt and the weather, and document its condition with photographs. Also check that the trailer or cradle is seaworthy and has sufficient load-bearing capacity.
How is the boat secured on board?
On board, the unit comprising the boat and cradle is secured to the deck eyes using lashing straps and chains, ensuring that everything remains stable even in rough seas. Correct lashing is the most important factor in ensuring damage-free transport — which is why this task is carried out by experienced terminal staff.
What alternatives are there to RoRo?
If the boat does not fit the RoRo system, other methods may be considered. A boat can be placed on a flat rack in an open position and secured. With the lift-on/lift-off method, a crane lifts the boat directly on board. Very large yachts are transported by ‘float-in’ on semi-submersible vessels, which are flooded to make them float.
What documents do I need for export?
Depending on the destination, the documents required for export include, amongst other things, proof of ownership and registration, an invoice or proof of value, and the export declaration. In Germany, this is handled via the ATLAS export procedures administered by Customs. Our guide summarises exactly which documents are required: RoRo Documents Checklist together.
FAQ
Can I ship my boat by Ro-Ro without a trailer?
Not usually — for RoRo, the boat needs a rollable base, i.e. a trailer or a cradle with wheels that the Mafi trailer can move.
Does the mast have to be removed from a sailing boat?
Usually, yes. The mast is laid flat and secured or transported separately to ensure that the height below deck is maintained.
How much fuel can be left in the tank?
As little as possible. For safety reasons, tanks should be largely emptied and sealed; exact requirements depend on the carrier.
Is RoRo suitable for very large yachts?
Only to a limited extent. Once certain dimensions are reached, flat-rack, lift-on/lift-off or float-in on semi-submersible vessels are the better choice.
How much does it cost to ship a boat?
The costs depend on the dimensions, weight, loading method and route, so it’s not possible to give a flat rate. It’s best to get a personalised quote.
All the information in this article has been carefully researched, but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the timeliness, accuracy or completeness of the information provided. Please contact us directly for a no-obligation quote.