A mafi trailer roro is a specially designed rolling platform for the transport of non-roadworthy goods on RoRo ships. It is moved in the terminal by terminal tractor units and enables the safe shipment of construction machinery, project cargo and oversized units. Typical advantages are high load capacity, flexible dimensions and efficient processes in the RoRo terminal. Correct documents such as B L, clear POL POD information and precise ETD ETA planning are crucial for smooth handling.
A mafi trailer roro serves as a mobile loading platform for non-self-propelled goods in RoRo transport.
It is moved in the terminal by special tractor units and rolled on board.
Typical applications include construction machinery, transformers, steel structures and extra-wide loads.
Important documents are B L, freight documents and correct information on POL POD and ETD ETA.
The costs depend on dimensions, weight, route and terminal requirements and require a customised offer.
RoRo stands for Roll on Roll off and describes a shipping method in which cargo is driven or pulled on board via ramps. While cars or lorries roll independently, goods that are not ready to travel require a technical solution. This is where the mafi trailer roro comes into play.
The MAFI trailer plays a central role in modern RoRo terminals and on PCTC ships. It acts as a link between the terminal, ship and recipient. Especially with heavy project cargo, it often becomes clear in practice that the choice of the right trailer is decisive for safety, efficiency and cost structure.
A MAFI trailer is a robust steel platform without its own drive. It has solid axles, a low loading height and high load capacities. In contrast to standard semi-trailers, it is designed for extreme point loads and handling in harbours.
The term mafi trailer roro specifically describes the use of this platform in the roll on roll off system. The trailers are moved in the terminal with so-called tugmasters or terminal tractors. The load remains fixed to the trailer during the entire sea transport.
Low overall height for heavy machines
High load capacity, up to well over 100 tonnes depending on type
Sturdy steel construction for point loads
Multiple lashing points according to CTU code
In practice, different variants are used, including 40-foot, 60-foot and special versions for extra-long goods.
The dimensioning depends on the intended use. The following categories are particularly common in RoRo terminals:
40 foot MAFI trailer for medium-heavy machines
60 foot platforms for long components
Heavy-duty MAFIs for transformers or industrial plants
Important parameters for planning are
Total length of the load
Total weight including trailer
Point load distribution
Excess width or excess height
In practice, it is often the case that not only the total weight, but above all the axle load distribution is decisive. An incorrect weight specification can lead to delays in the terminal.
The cargo is delivered to the port by lorry or heavy transport. It is then reloaded onto the mafi trailer roro. Special ramps or cranes are used for this.
Lashing is carried out in accordance with international standards. Among other things, the IMO CTU Code is decisive. Proper securing prevents damage during the sea voyage.
In the next step, a terminal tractor pulls the loaded trailer on board via the rear or side ramp. There it is secured in a designated position.
The trailer is unloaded at the POD and the load is either taken over directly or transported onwards.
Precise coordination of ETD ETA and transparent communication between the shipper, shipping company and terminal are essential.
Complete documentation prevents delays and additional costs.
The B L is the central transport document. It contains information on:
Sender and recipient
POL POD
Description of goods
Weight and dimensions
Particularly in the case of construction machinery, information on:
Weight
Dimensions
Ground clearance
Centre of gravity
required.
Depending on the route, export declarations, certificates of origin or special authorisations are required.
In practice, it is often the case that incomplete dimensions lead to recalculations or delays.
Goods that are not ready to travel can be transported without complex containerisation.
The rolling principle reduces handling times. The mafi trailer roro remains under the load during the entire sea transport.
The stable construction minimises the risk of movement during the voyage.
RoRo is often more economical than breakbulk or flat rack containers, especially for oversized machines. However, specific costs depend on the route, weight and availability and require a customised offer.
Construction machinery
Agricultural machinery
Industrial plants
Transformers
Extra-wide steel structures
Further details on shipping construction machinery can be found here:
https://odsorient.com/roro-verschiffung-fuer-baumaschinen-der-umfassende-leitfaden
The quotation calculator can be used for a quick calculation enquiry:
https://odsorient.com/angebotsrechner
Unrealistic or estimated weights lead to congestion problems.
Missing lashing points or incorrect securing can cause damage.
Incomplete B L details or incorrect POL POD data will delay despatch.
Since the introduction of emissions trading for maritime transport, the EU ETS also affects RoRo transport within Europe. Information on this is provided by the EU Commission:
https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/transport-decarbonisation/reducing-emissions-shipping-sector/faq-maritime-transport-eu-emissions-trading-system-ets_en
In practice, companies should examine possible additional regulatory requirements at an early stage.
Measure dimensions precisely
Check total weight and axle load
Provide technical data sheets
Specify POL POD correctly
ETD ETA realistic planning
Coordinate lashing concept
Prepare customs documents
Early coordination with the shipping company or freight forwarder significantly reduces risks.
The costs depend on the route, weight, dimensions and terminal charges. It is not possible to provide a generalised quote. A customised offer is required.
In principle, yes, as long as the weight and dimensions are within the technical specifications and secure lashing is possible.
During container transport, the load is stowed in a closed container. With the mafi trailer roro, the goods remain open on a platform and are loaded on wheels.
The duration depends on the port, capacity utilisation and document situation. If the documents are complete, handling is usually very efficient.
ETD denotes the planned departure, ETA the expected arrival. Precise times are crucial for project planning and onward transport.
The mafi trailer roro is a central element of modern RoRo logistics. It enables the safe and efficient transport of heavy, non-roadworthy goods worldwide. Standardised processes in the terminal, clear documentation and professional load securing minimise risks.
Companies benefit from flexibility, predictability and efficient integration into global supply chains. Precise dimensions, complete documents and early coordination between all parties involved are crucial.
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 mafi trailer roro is a specially designed rolling platform for the transport of non-roadworthy goods on RoRo ships. It is moved in the terminal by terminal tractor units and enables the safe shipment of construction machinery, project cargo and oversized units. Typical advantages are high load capacity, flexible dimensions and efficient processes in the RoRo terminal. To ensure smooth handling, correct documents such as [...]
The roro status milestones describe all operational steps of a ro-ro shipment from gate in at the port to release at the port of destination. This includes terminal acceptance, document verification, loading onto the PCTC vessel, departure ETD, arrival ETA, unloading and release. If you understand these status messages, you can recognise delays at an early stage, minimise risks and retain control of vehicle or project cargo at all times. Short answer in [...]
