Find out when RoRo or container is the better choice - learn the differences!

A comparison of basic principles: what lies behind RoRo and containerised freight

Roll-on/roll-off explained briefly: When vehicles drive themselves on board

RoRo stands for roll-on/roll-off - a term that has long been an integral part of the logistics world. The principle is very simple: vehicles and rollable machines drive directly onto the ship under their own power or on special platforms. No cranes, no time-consuming reloading - instead a smooth, efficient loading process.
This form of transport is predestined for mobile goods such as cars, lorries, construction machinery or agricultural machinery. They remain roadworthy throughout the entire journey and can be used again immediately at their destination. This makes RoRo particularly attractive for manufacturers and dealers who want to move large quantities of vehicles quickly and safely by sea.

Container freight at a glance: Standardised crates for the whole world

Containers are the invisible heroes of global trade. Their standardisation - usually as 20- or 40-foot containers - makes it possible to transport almost any type of goods safely, space-savingly and uniformly worldwide.
Whether machine components, consumer goods, chemical products or foodstuffs - containerised freight is extremely versatile. The containers are loaded by crane in ports and can be seamlessly transferred to lorries, trains or ships. This multimodal transport concept has revolutionised global trade and offers companies maximum flexibility.

Typical areas of application and industries for both types of transport

RoRo is used wherever mobile cargo is required - for example in the automotive industry, in the agricultural sector or for transporting heavy-duty machinery.
Container freight, on the other hand, covers a wide range of sectors: Retail, industry, chemicals, food and much more. Machines or vehicles that are not roadworthy can also be transported by container - often packed and secured on flat-rack containers or in special containers.

Advantages and challenges of RoRo transport

Fast loading and unloading without heavy crane technology

An unbeatable advantage of RoRo is the high loading speed. Vehicles roll on board via special ramps - without a crane, without reloading. This saves time and reduces the risks that can arise during crane loading. Unloading at the port of destination is also quick and efficient, which minimises downtimes.

Perfect for mobile goods and oversized machines

RoRo is customised for mobile and oversized loads. Vehicles, cranes, construction machinery or industrial equipment transported on special platforms - RoRo offers the necessary flexibility to transport even bulky goods safely to their destination.

Limited flexibility with non-rollable freight and irregular routes

The biggest challenge of RoRo lies in its limited flexibility. Not all freight can be rolled. In addition, RoRo connections are often limited to certain ports and schedules. RoRo is therefore not always the first choice for general cargo or sensitive goods that require additional protection.

Advantages and challenges of containerised freight

Maximum versatility for almost any type of goods

Containers are true all-rounders. Whether bulk goods, packaged goods, machinery or temperature-sensitive products - there is a suitable container type for almost every load. This means that companies are hardly restricted in their choice of goods.

Global availability thanks to standardised container sizes

Thanks to their global standardisation, containers are available almost everywhere. Globally harmonised dimensions and standards make transport across continents plannable and efficient. This creates a high level of supply security and a reliable logistics chain.

Increased time and costs for special shipments and documentation

Despite all the advantages, container transport can be time-consuming and cost-intensive - especially for bulky goods that do not fit perfectly into the container. Special shipments such as flat-rack or open-top containers require additional equipment and expertise. The documentation is also often more complex than for pure RoRo transport.

Comparison of costs, time factors and availability

When RoRo is the cheaper and faster solution

RoRo is worthwhile if:
- mobile or wheeled goods are transported
- fast loading and unloading is crucial
- oversized machines or vehicles are to be shipped
RoRo offers a time and cost-efficient alternative to containers, especially on established routes with regular departures.

When containerised freight can be economically superior

Containers make economic sense if:
- a wide variety of goods can be transported
- multimodal transport is required
- worldwide availability and flexibility take centre stage
Container freight is often the more universal solution for companies with changing destinations and heterogeneous consignments.

Importance of timetables, routes and charging options

Whether RoRo or container - in the end, the schedule and availability are often the deciding factors.
While container transports call at almost every major port in the world, RoRo connections are more specialised. It is worth comparing the loading options and transit times in order to find the best solution for individual requirements.

How companies find the right transport solution

Analysis of freight type, destination region and deadlines

The first step is to thoroughly analyse your own requirements:
- What type of freight is to be transported?
- How large and heavy is the load?
- Which destination regions and transit times are required?
Only on this basis is it possible to judge whether RoRo or containers are more suitable.

Collaboration with experienced logistics partners for customised advice

Experienced logistics service providers help to find the optimum solution. They know the strengths and weaknesses of both types of transport and can develop customised concepts - including cost calculation, timetable coordination and documentation.

Conclusion: No one-size-fits-all solution - but the right strategy for every load

Whether RoRo or container - there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each project requires an individual approach. Those who are familiar with both options and utilise them in a targeted manner not only secure economic advantages, but also a stable and reliable supply chain.