RoRo stands for „roll-on/roll-off" and refers to a shipping method in which rollable cargo - i.e. vehicles, construction machinery or semi-trailers - is driven directly onto the ship via a ramp. In contrast to container transport, no crane or container is required. This makes RoRo fast, cost-effective and particularly gentle on the cargo. The method is suitable for anyone who wants to ship vehicles or rollable goods internationally - from individual exports to fleet shipments.
The principle behind RoRo is very simple: your vehicle or machine is brought to the harbour, registered at the terminal and then driven onto the ship via a ramp. On board, the load is secured - either with lashing straps, brake wedges or special brackets on the vehicle deck.
At the port of destination, the process is reversed: the cargo rolls off the ship via the ramp and is handed over to the recipient. Depending on the route, there is a transit time of a few days to several weeks between loading and unloading.
For you as the shipper, this means less handling, fewer handling points and therefore a significantly lower risk of damage than with many alternative transport methods.
In principle, RoRo is suitable for anything that can roll - either under its own power or with the help of a tug or MAFI trailer. This includes
Even vehicles that are not roadworthy can be shipped by RoRo - provided they are steerable and can be towed. You can find out more about this in our article on the advantages and disadvantages of RoRo shipping (https://odsorient.com/roro-verschiffung-vorteile-und-nachteile).
The two most common methods for international vehicle transport are RoRo and containers. Here are the most important differences at a glance:
| Criterion | RoRo | Container |
| Loading | Via ramp (rolling) | By crane into container |
| speed | Fast (less handling) | Slower (more steps) |
| Costs | Often cheaper with rollable cargo | More favourable for small parts/piece goods |
| Risk of damage | Low (little turnover) | Higher (crane, stowage) |
| Personal items | Generally not permitted | Possible (in container) |
| Flexibility | Rollable goods only | All types of goods |
You can find a detailed comparison of both methods in our article RoRo vs. container: When is which solution really worthwhile? (https://odsorient.com/roro-vs-container-wann-lohnt-sich-welche-loesung-wirklich).
The typical process of a RoRo shipment is divided into six steps:
1. obtain a quotation: You contact a specialised RoRo forwarder and provide the vehicle data: Dimensions (length, width, height), weight, pick-up location and port of destination.
2. booking and documentation: Once the offer has been confirmed, the transport documents are prepared - including the commercial invoice, the Bill of Lading (B/L) and any export customs documents.
3. delivery to the harbour: The vehicle is taken to the agreed terminal. The gate-in takes place there: an incoming inspection with photo documentation.
4. loading: The vehicle drives or is driven onto the ship via the ramp and secured there.
5. sea transport: During the crossing, you can usually track the status of your consignment online - via tracking using the VIN number or B/L number.
6. unloading and collection: The vehicle rolls off the ship at the port of destination. After customs clearance, it can be collected or transported onwards.
The costs for a RoRo shipment depend on several factors and cannot be quantified across the board. The most important cost drivers are
For a reliable calculation, we recommend requesting a customised quote. This will give you a price that is tailored precisely to your load and route. Contact us directly at https://odsorient.com/kontakt.
From European ports such as Bremerhaven, Hamburg, Antwerp or Southampton, you can reach almost any important destination worldwide by RoRo. The most common connections:
Transit times vary depending on the destination. For example, it takes around 14-18 days from Bremerhaven to Jeddah, around 18-28 days to South America and 25-40 days to Asia.
RoRo is not only interesting for large companies. The method is suitable for a wide range of shippers:
Not every freight forwarder specialises in RoRo. To ensure that your shipment runs smoothly, you should pay attention to the following points:
RoRo is the abbreviation for „roll-on/roll-off". It describes a loading principle in which vehicles and rollable goods travel onto the ship via a ramp - without a crane or container.
For rollable cargo, RoRo is the more favourable option in most cases, as less handling and no container is required. For small parts or non-rollable cargo, however, the container can be more economical.
As a rule, no. Most shipping companies and customs authorities do not allow personal items in the vehicle during RoRo shipping. Everything inside the vehicle must be removed beforehand.
The pure transit time is between 7 and 40 days, depending on the route. In addition, there are lead times for documentation, gate-in and customs clearance at the port of destination. You should expect a total of 3-8 weeks.
Transport insurance is not required by law, but is strongly recommended. The shipping company's liability is usually limited to a fraction of the value of the vehicle. All-risk insurance protects you comprehensively against damage during the entire transport.
Yes, this is possible - as long as the vehicle is steerable and can be towed. Vehicles that cannot be steered must be loaded onto a MAFI trailer, which incurs additional costs.
The most important German RoRo ports are Bremerhaven (Europe's largest automobile port), Hamburg and Emden. From there, there are regular connections to all important target markets worldwide.
RoRo shipping is the most efficient and often most cost-effective method of transporting vehicles, construction machinery and other goods on wheels internationally. The principle is simple, the process standardised and the global route coverage excellent.
Whether you want to ship a single vehicle or an entire fleet - with the right partner at your side, the process becomes transparent and plannable. At ODS Orient, we support you from the initial enquiry through to collection at the port of destination.
Do you have any questions or would you like a non-binding offer? Contact us directly: https://odsorient.com/kontakt
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.
RoRo stands for „roll-on/roll-off" and refers to a shipping method in which rollable cargo - i.e. vehicles, construction machinery or semi-trailers - is driven directly onto the ship via a ramp. In contrast to container transport, no crane or container is required. This makes RoRo fast, cost-effective and particularly gentle on the cargo. The method is suitable for [...]
The RoRo cbm calculation determines the volume of a vehicle based on length, width and height in metres. This volume is the central basis for planning capacity and invoicing in RoRo transport. Errors in the calculation often lead to delays or additional costs. Those who measure correctly and take all attachments into account can plan transports efficiently and minimise risks [...].
