Avoidance of delays and additional costs through proper planning
RoRo transport is one of the most efficient methods of shipping vehicles and rolling stock by sea. However, this efficiency can only be fully realised if the preparation is right. Even the smallest negligence - be it a missing customs document or an incorrect measurement - can lead to expensive delays. Storage costs, demurrage, rebooking fees: The bill usually arrives sooner than expected.
Proper planning makes it possible to optimise the use of resources, make precise use of time slots and avoid expensive bottlenecks. It is therefore the foundation for a smooth process - from booking to unloading in the destination country.
In contrast to container or general cargo transport, with RoRo the goods are not loaded but driven onto the ship - hence the name "roll-on/roll-off". This means that the cargo must be ready to travel, secured and stable in itself. This does not involve pallets or loose packages, but self-propelled units or units mounted on trailers.
This difference not only influences the type of loading, but also the requirements for dimensions, weights, loading capacity and safety. Errors that can still be compensated for during container stacking have a direct impact on transport logistics with RoRo.
Well thought-out preparation not only provides security, but also tangible economic benefits: better planning reliability, predictable transit times, fewer requests - and satisfied customers. Those who plan in good time can also benefit from more favourable rates, more efficient routes and more flexible departures.
Structure creates trust - both internally within the team and with all external partners along the logistics chain. This means that transport does not become a risk factor, but a reliable link between markets.
RoRo thrives on movement. It is therefore essential that vehicles and machines function technically flawlessly. This includes functioning brakes, an intact steering system and safe driving. The battery should be fully charged, tyres inflated and all moving parts secured.
It is particularly important for specialised machines that they can be manoeuvred or moved on trailers without any problems. If you cut corners or improvise here, you risk a loading stop or even exclusion from transport.
One aspect that is often underestimated is cleaning. Depending on the port of destination, residues of soil, oil or grain can lead to problems during import. Many countries have strict requirements regarding the cleanliness of imported vehicles.
In addition, tanks must usually be almost empty (max. 25 % fill level), batteries disconnected if necessary and vehicles clearly labelled. The VIN (chassis number), loading address and all relevant export marks should be clearly visible.
Incorrect information regarding length, width, height or weight is the classic cause of incorrect bookings. This not only leads to incorrect space allocation, but in the worst case can prevent the entire loading process. Attachments such as mirrors, cranes or spoilers must also be included in the dimensions.
For unusual cargo shapes - such as overheight machines or narrow special vehicles - a schematic sketch or photo is also recommended. This allows the shipping company to assess in advance how the object can be placed on board.
No paper, no transport. The most important documents for RoRo shipping are
Depending on the country and type of freight, additional documents may be required - such as environmental certificates, fumigation certificates or special authorisations.
RoRo works with tight time windows. The so-called cut-off times indicate when a vehicle must be delivered to the terminal at the latest. Those who miss these deadlines must reckon with rebooking costs or the next available ship.
The deadlines for submitting documents and customs papers are also strict. All documents should be complete at least 48 hours before departure - even earlier depending on the shipping company and port of destination.
Each country has its own regulations regarding imports, emissions and technical standards. In some countries, only vehicles with certain years of manufacture or exhaust emission standards may be imported. Shipping companies also rely on specific forms and procedures - there are no uniform standards.
An early comparison with the requirements of the target market and the ro-ro line used prevents unnecessary queries and delays.
RoRo is teamwork. From the shipper to the freight forwarder to the terminal employee - everyone has to be on the same page. A missing indication of excess height, a late notification or unclear information can bring the entire process to a standstill.
It is therefore worth investing in regular coordination, clearly defined contacts and transparent processes.
In addition to the shipping company and the port, customs agents, transport service providers and the recipient must also be involved in good time. Especially with international shipments involving several parties, it is important that information is not lost or arrives too late.
A structured flow of information - ideally with fixed times and checkpoints - creates security and predictability.
Today, digital tools make it possible to track shipments in real time, recognise deviations and react quickly. Companies that use tracking solutions and automatic status reports are much more resilient in the event of unforeseen events.
A prepared emergency management system - with defined escalation channels and contact persons - also helps to act confidently in an emergency.
The day of delivery determines whether everything goes according to plan. A checklist helps to ensure that nothing is forgotten: From checking the vehicle functions and the completeness of the documents to checking the external dimensions. The existence of the loading authorisation should also be confirmed.
This final check reduces the risk of expensive surprises at the terminal.
A written handover protocol is recommended for the handover at the harbour. Ideally, this should be supplemented by complete photographic documentation showing the condition of the freight on arrival. In this way, any damage can be clearly assigned later.
The visual inspection by terminal staff is an additional safety filter - but it does not replace the shipper's own responsibility.
An accessible contact person should always be named for any queries or changes at short notice - with clear decision-making powers. In this way, problems can be solved quickly on site without unnecessary consultations or waiting times.
With the right preparation for RoRo transport, shipping is not only safer, but also more predictable - and therefore a strategic success factor in international goods transport.
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