Anyone who wants to ship their motorhome abroad - whether for a long-distance trip, a long-term stay or international resale - is faced with a key question: container vs RoRo for motorhomes? Both transport methods have their advantages and disadvantages, which depend heavily on the destination, the size of the vehicle and personal requirements. In this article, we show you which option is best for you and what you should pay attention to when preparing. This will make your shipping stress-free and easy to plan.
RoRo stands for "Roll-on/Roll-off". Your motorhome is driven directly onto the ship on its own axle via a ramp and driven off again at the port of destination. The method is efficient, saves time and is used particularly frequently on major trade routes.
🛈 More information on this in the Guide to RoRo transport at ODS Orient.
With container shipping, your motorhome is loaded into a 20 or 40-foot container, usually by crane or ramp. This method is suitable for smaller models or vehicles that require special protection.
| Criterion | RoRo shipping | Container shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle size | Ideal for large or bulky motorhomes | Limited dimensions due to container size (e.g. 40' HC approx. 2.65 m high) |
| Readiness to drive | Vehicle must be capable of rolling and braking | Vehicle may also be unroadworthy |
| Protection from the weather | Vehicle is on deck or in the ship's belly | High - fully enclosed container |
| Access to vehicle | Not possible during transport, vehicle still remains unlocked. | Not possible during transport |
| Loading of objects | Not permitted (only permanently installed accessories) | Possible to a limited extent (by arrangement) |
| Cost structure | Generally cheaper for large vehicles | Usually more expensive, but easier to plan for smaller vehicles |
| Flexibility of the route | Wider availability of departures and harbours | Depending on container availability |
| Question | Decision support |
|---|---|
| Is your motorhome higher than 2.65 m? | → Tendency towards RoRo |
| Does the vehicle need special protection? | → Tendency towards containers |
| Is the vehicle roadworthy and ready to roll? | → RoRo possible |
| Would you like to carry equipment in the vehicle? | → Container by arrangement |
| Are you travelling on an established route (e.g. Europe - USA)? | → RoRo often offers better availability |
| Is the vehicle smaller than 6 metres? | → Container possible |
Every shipment - whether by container or RoRo - requires complete export documents and, depending on the destination country, special customs forms. In many cases, the same rules apply to motorhomes as to cars, although there may be country-specific peculiarities.
🛈 You can find out more about the requirements for special transport in the article "Special transport by RoRo: what you need to know".
A customer wants to ship a 7 metre long motorhome to Halifax, Canada. RoRo is ideal here: the route is established, the vehicle fits easily on the ship and the uncomplicated delivery to the harbour saves time. A small panel van, on the other hand, which is destined for Vancouver, can be shipped by container - especially if the route does not offer a direct RoRo connection.
In many cases, yes - especially for large vehicles. For smaller models, however, containers may be cheaper or equivalent. Exact prices depend on route and season.
Not for RoRo. Possibly possible for containers, depending on the provider and customs regulations - clarify beforehand.
Then RoRo is not possible. In this case, the only option is container transport or an interim solution with additional handling.
This depends on the route, season and port of destination. Typically: Europe - USA/Canada approx. 2-4 weeks.
Let us advise you individually. ODS Orient creates an offer customised to your vehicle and your route.
Whether container or RoRo for motorhomes - the best choice depends on the type of vehicle, destination and individual requirements. While RoRo scores points with large vehicles and established routes, containers offer more protection and flexibility for smaller campers. Professional advice and early planning are important to avoid surprises. ODS Orient is at your side as an experienced partner with help and advice.
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.
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Anyone who wants to ship their motorhome abroad - whether for a long-distance trip, a long-term stay or international resale - is faced with a key question: container vs RoRo for motorhomes? Both transport methods have their advantages and disadvantages, which depend heavily on the destination, the size of the vehicle and personal requirements. In this article, we show [...]
