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 „fast“ or „protected“ and overlook details such as dimensional limits, port processes, loading rules, battery or gas regulations and customs requirements.
This guide provides you with a practical decision-making aid. You will find out when RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) is the more efficient choice, when the container offers more control - and which preparation steps are mandatory regardless of the method. We deliberately do not quote specific prices, as costs depend heavily on the route, season, vehicle data and availability. For reliable figures, a personalised offer required.
With RoRo, the motorhome drives directly onto the ship on its own axle via a ramp. This reduces handling points and simplifies the process considerably. The prerequisite is that the vehicle is ready to drive.
During container transport, the motorhome is loaded into a sea container. This offers additional protection from the weather and external access, but requires precise dimensional checks and professional load securing.
| Criterion | RoRo | Container |
|---|---|---|
| Size & weight | Very good for large motorhomes | Limited by container dimensions |
| Protection | Limited | Very high |
| Readiness to drive | Required | Not mandatory |
| Handling effort | Low | Higher (securing & packaging) |
| Route availability | Depending on RoRo lines | Globally available |
Helpful for preparation:
The CTU Code applies internationally for safe load securing: IMO CTU Code
The decision between container vs roro for motorhome always depends on the vehicle type, route and individual requirements. RoRo impresses with its simplicity and efficiency for large, roadworthy motorhomes. The container scores with protection and flexibility. Individual advice and a personalised offer are essential for reliable planning.
Not necessarily. The cost-effectiveness depends on the route, season and vehicle data.
Generally not for RoRo. For containers, only after prior agreement and documentation.
Then container transport is usually the only option.
Extremely important - they decide on feasibility and mode of transport.
As early as possible in order to comply with availabilities and cut-offs.
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. [...]
