Short answer: A PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) is a specialised vessel built exclusively for the transport of vehicles. Inside, numerous vehicle decks are stacked one on top of the other, connected by ramps. Roadworthy cars, lorries and construction machinery drive on board and off again under their own power, following the RoRo principle. Adjustable decks provide space for tall cargo. In this way, a PCTC gently transports several thousand vehicles across the world’s oceans — the backbone of modern vehicle shipping.
The key points in 5 points
- PCTC stands for Pure Car and Truck Carrier, a ship exclusively for vehicles.
- The Ro-Ro principle allows vehicles to roll on their own axles — in and out.
- Several decks and ramps come together to form a floating car park.
- Adjustable (hoistable) decks provide headroom for lorries and construction machinery.
- A PCTC transports several thousand vehicles in a single journey.
What exactly is a PCTC vessel?
A PCTC is a dedicated car carrier — a tall, box-shaped vessel that, from the outside, resembles a floating car park. Instead of cargo holds for containers, it has numerous flat decks stacked one on top of the other like storeys. This is precisely what the entire design is geared towards: accommodating as many vehicles as possible safely and in a space-saving manner. PCTC ships are the backbone of the RoRo shipping and operate regular routes between the world’s major vehicle ports.
What is the difference between PCTC and PCC?
Both terms sound similar, but have slightly different meanings. A PCC (Pure Car Carrier) is designed exclusively for passenger cars. A PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) is more flexible: in addition to cars, it can also carry heavier and taller cargo such as lorries, buses or construction machinery. This is made possible by a stronger deck structure and adjustable decks. In practice, „PCTC" is now used as the standard term for modern vehicle carriers.
How does the RoRo principle work on board?
RoRo stands for „Roll-on/Roll-off". Roadworthy vehicles drive onto the ship themselves via a large stern or side ramp and are guided onto their deck via internal ramps. No cranes are required. Drivers position each vehicle, which is then secured with lashing straps to prevent movement at sea. Unloading is carried out in reverse order. This fast, gentle procedure also forms the basis of the Ro-Ro shipping in Europe.
Why are adjustable decks so important?
Not every vehicle is the same height. To ensure that a PCTC can carry both low-slung sports cars and tall construction machinery, many decks are height-adjustable (hoistable). When they are raised, this creates space underneath for „high & heavy" cargo. When lowered, more car decks can be stacked on top of one another. This flexibility makes the ship cost-effective and allows it to carry a diverse mix of vehicles in a single voyage.
What sort of cargo does a PCTC carry?
The range is wide: cars, vans, lorries and buses, as well as agricultural and construction machinery, trailers and other „high & heavy" goods that can be transported on their own wheels. The key factor is that the cargo must be able to roll — either on its own wheels or on special roll-on trailers. International regulations apply to safety at sea, including the International Maritime Organisation on stability and load securing.
FAQ
What does the abbreviation PCTC stand for?
PCTC stands for „Pure Car and Truck Carrier", i.e. a vessel designed exclusively for carrying cars and lorries.
Are vehicles transported in containers on a PCTC?
No. Vehicles travel in the open on the decks and are secured there. That is the essence of the Ro-Ro principle.
Can construction machinery also be shipped with a PCTC?
Yes. Thanks to their adjustable decks, PCTC vessels can also carry tall and heavy „high & heavy" cargo.
How many vehicles can fit on a PCTC?
Depending on the size of the ship, there are several thousand vehicles per voyage, spread across many decks.
Does my vehicle need to be roadworthy?
For standard Ro-Ro transport, yes. Vehicles that are not roadworthy can usually only be loaded using special roll-on trailers.
Is RoRo gentler than other methods?
Yes, because there’s no need to lift it with a crane. The vehicle rolls straight into position and is secured there.
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