With every RoRo shipment, proper preparation determines whether a vehicle is loaded smoothly - or whether it fails at the terminal. In practice, delays rarely occur at sea, but almost always at the port: missing documents, vehicles that are not ready to travel or discrepancies between registration and actual condition. This is precisely where this roro loading checklist to.
The following guide shows you step by step how to prepare vehicles, machines or rolling project cargo for the RoRo port without errors. You will find out which technical requirements apply, which documents are mandatory and which typical mistakes you should avoid at all costs. The aim is loading roro, which goes through without any queries, additional costs or delays.
RoRo stands for „roll-on/roll-off“ - vehicles are moved on board ready to travel. This is precisely the advantage, but also the responsibility of the shipper. Unlike with containerised loads, the terminal checks very carefully before loading whether the vehicle is ready to move:
Even small deviations result in units not being accepted. A structured roro loading checklist is therefore not a „nice-to-have“, but a must for predictable shipping.
The most important principle is: Anything that cannot roll on its own is not loaded. The following points should therefore be checked and documented before delivery to the harbour:
For construction machinery, agricultural machinery or special vehicles in particular, this point is crucial for successful RoRo loading.
The reported dimensions are the binding basis for every RoRo booking. Deviations often lead to rejection at the terminal.
| Parameters | What to look out for |
|---|---|
| Length | incl. attachments, overhangs, couplings |
| Width | incl. mirrors, chains, safety bars |
| Height | incl. roof superstructures, antennas |
| Weight | Unladen weight plus fixed attachments |
Practical tip: Always measure the real vehicle and do not rely solely on data sheets. Conversions or optional extras are often forgotten.
Error-free documentation is a core element of every roro loading checklist. The following documents should be available at the latest at gate-in:
You can also find a general overview of processes and requirements here: What do I need to consider for a RoRo shipment?.
Each port sets its own deadlines and procedures. Typical points are
Late delivery or lack of advance notification may result in the unit being postponed to the next departure.
Further details can be found in the overview: RoRo shipping - procedure & advantages.
All of these points can be addressed with a structured roro loading checklist reliably.
International safety standards for maritime transport are defined, among other things, by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) defined. These specifications form the basis for many port and shipping company regulations in RoRo transport.
Yes, vehicles that cannot roll independently are unsuitable for classic RoRo shipments.
The specified dimensions must correspond to the actual condition. Deviations often lead to rejection in the terminal.
As a rule, yes. The permitted quantity depends on the shipping company and harbour.
Ideally several days before the gate-in in order to rectify technical or documentary problems in good time.
Structured preparation is the key to a successful RoRo shipment. This roro loading checklist helps you to avoid typical mistakes and get your units through the harbour without delays. Specific prices are deliberately not quoted, as costs depend on the route, vehicle type and harbour. A personalised quote is required for reliable figures.
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.
A motorhome is more than just a vehicle - it is a travelling companion, a home on wheels and often a considerable investment. Anyone who wants to transport it by sea is quickly faced with the key question: container vs roro for motorhome - which method really suits the vehicle, route and risk profile? This is exactly where most wrong decisions are made: People only look at [...]
With every RoRo shipment, proper preparation determines whether a vehicle is loaded smoothly - or whether it fails at the terminal. In practice, delays rarely occur at sea, but almost always at the port: missing documents, vehicles that are not ready to travel or discrepancies between registration and actual condition. This is exactly where this roro loading checklist comes in. [...]
