Introduction

Choosing the right transport method is crucial for a smooth and economical flow of goods. Especially in international sea freight transport, companies are faced with the question: RoRo or container? Both methods have their advantages, but which solution is best suited to your requirements?

RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) offers quick and easy shipping for rollable freight, while container transport guarantees standardised, secure shipping for a wide variety of goods. The right choice depends on various factors such as freight type, costs, safety requirements and logistical conditions.

What is RoRo and when is it the best choice?

Roll-on/roll-off: Easy loading and unloading without additional lifting equipment

With RoRo shipping, vehicles and rollable machines are driven directly onto the ship and unloaded at the port of destination without cranes or additional lifting equipment. This method is particularly efficient for large, self-propelled units such as lorries, tractors or buses.

Ideal for vehicles, construction machinery and wheeled freight

Whether exporting new cars, agricultural machinery or heavy loads - RoRo offers a flexible and cost-effective alternative to other transport methods. As the freight remains ready to travel, no special preparations such as packing or loading into containers are necessary.

Cost efficiency and faster handling times in the port

By travelling directly onto the ship, cost-intensive lifting and storage processes are eliminated. This reduces port downtimes and optimises the entire transport process. RoRo is therefore often the more economical choice, especially for short to medium distances.

Restrictions: When RoRo is not the optimal solution

Not every cargo is suitable for RoRo. Loose goods, sensitive machinery or non-rollable cargo require alternative solutions. RoRo ships are also tied to specific routes and harbour facilities, which can limit flexibility.

Container transport: the safe alternative for many goods

Standardised container sizes: Flexibility for different goods

Container transport uses standardised 20 or 40-foot containers that are suitable for a wide range of goods. Whether palletised goods, disassembled machines or sensitive electronics - containers offer a universal transport solution.

Protection from the weather and theft

Sealed containers offer additional protection against environmental influences, theft or damage during transport. This makes them particularly attractive for valuable or sensitive freight.

Ideal for smaller, non-rollable freight and sensitive goods

Goods that cannot be rolled or require special protection can be stowed safely and organised in containers. This also enables multimodal transport by ship, rail and lorry without reloading the goods.

Higher handling costs and longer loading and unloading times

Compared to RoRo, the port processes are more complex. Containers have to be loaded with cranes and transported by terminal vehicles. This can lead to longer waiting times and increase overall costs.

Direct comparison: RoRo vs. container - which method is better?

Cost factors: Which solution is more economical?

• RoRo: Lower handling costs, especially for large, ready-to-move freight.
• Container: More flexible to use, but higher handling and storage costs.

Transit times and efficiency: speed in the transport process

• RoRo: Faster loading and unloading, which minimises downtimes.
• Container: More stable timetables, but longer port handling times.

Security aspects: Which method offers better protection?

• Container: Closed design protects against weather and theft.
• RoRo: Safe for robust vehicles, but less suitable for sensitive cargo.

Customs and logistics requirements: What you need to consider when planning

• RoRo transports require specific authorisations depending on the country.
• Container require detailed cargo manifests and must comply with strict packaging guidelines.

Conclusion: Which transport solution is right for your company?

Decision factors: weight, size and sensitivity of the goods

• For vehicles and machines: RoRo is often faster and more cost-efficient.
• For fragile or bulky freight: Containers offer more protection and flexibility.

Regional availability: Which ports offer which options?

• Not all ports are suitable for RoRo. Container ports have a wider availability.
• Find out about the infrastructure and transport options in your target market.

Future prospects: developments in RoRo and container logistics

• Automation and digitalisation are constantly optimising both methods.
• Sustainable concepts could make container transport more environmentally friendly.

Next steps: How to make the best choice for your transport goods

• Analyse your specific transport requirements.
• Consult with logistics experts to find the most economical and efficient solution.

The choice between RoRo and containers depends on many factors. Both methods have their advantages, but the right decision is based on the specific requirements of your company. Making the right choice not only saves costs, but also increases the efficiency of the entire supply chain.