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.

For a detailed overview of the possible costs, we recommend our article "RoRo shipping costs - everything you need to know".

3. document management in the customer portal

After booking, you can easily upload all the necessary documents via the platform:

  • Registration certificate
  • ID card scan
  • Invoice (for export)
  • Additional import documents or special authorisations if necessary

The upload is checked - an automatic response is sent if documents are missing or incorrect.

4. technical vehicle preparation

The following points must be fulfilled to ensure a smooth process:

  • The vehicle can be rolled and steered
  • No loose or private objects in the interior
  • Fuelling level for export vehicles mostly under 25 %
  • External cleaning for visibility of damage or features

You can find more details in the article "RoRo shipping for construction machinery - The comprehensive guide".

5. delivery to the harbour & handover

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

AdvantageDescription of the
Time savingNo long queries or waiting times
FlexibilityChange options in the booking portal
Error avoidanceAutomatic checks of vehicle data
TransparencyAccess to all processes in the customer account
Planning securityClear 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?
contact

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