{"id":1204,"date":"2026-05-12T13:36:45","date_gmt":"2026-05-12T13:36:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/?p=1204"},"modified":"2026-05-05T13:38:41","modified_gmt":"2026-05-05T13:38:41","slug":"damage-roro-transport-liability","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/schaden-roro-transport-haftung","title":{"rendered":"Damage during RoRo transport: what to do and who is liable?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If damage occurs to your vehicle during a RoRo shipment, quick and documented action is crucial. According to the Hague-Visby Rules, the carrier's liability is severely limited - usually to approx. 2 SDR per kilogramme. A separate transport insurance policy closes this gap. The damage must be reported immediately upon unloading and fully documented with photos in order to be able to assert claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Short answer in 5 bullet points<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>According to the Hague-Visby Rules, the carrier's liability is limited to approx. 2 SDR per kilogramme.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage must be reported immediately upon unloading at the port of destination and recorded in writing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Complete photo documentation before and after transport is the most important basis of proof.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A separate transport insurance policy covers the actual value of the vehicle and closes liability gaps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The claims process requires the damage report, photos, the condition report and the policy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How often does damage occur during RoRo transport?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>RoRo transport is considered one of the safest methods of shipping vehicles by sea. As the vehicles are driven onto the ship on their own wheels and professionally secured, the risk of damage is significantly lower than with some container shipments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nevertheless, damage cannot be completely ruled out. The most common types of damage are minor scratches and dents that can occur during loading or unloading. More serious damage such as glass breakage or mechanical damage is rare, but does occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typical causes of damage are<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact with other vehicles when manoeuvring on the ship.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seaway, which leads to movement if the load is inadequately secured.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damage during the loading or unloading process at the terminal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exposure to salt water when vehicles are not fully enclosed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theft of vehicle parts such as wing mirrors or aerials.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This makes it all the more important to take the right precautions and to know the claims process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What do the Hague-Visby Rules say about carrier liability?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hague-Visby Rules are an international agreement that regulates the liability of sea freight carriers. They are of key importance for RoRo shipments, as they stipulate the maximum amount of compensation that a carrier must pay in the event of damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the Hague-Visby Rules, liability is limited to 2 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) per kilogram of gross weight of the damaged goods or 666.67 SDR per package - whichever is higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For an average vehicle weighing 1,500 kg, this means a maximum liability of around 3,000 SDR, which corresponds to around 3,600 euros. With a vehicle worth 30,000 euros or more, it quickly becomes clear that the carrier liability is far from sufficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, it must be proven that the damage actually occurred during transport and that the carrier acted negligently. In many cases, the carrier can invoke exclusions of liability - for example in cases of force majeure or nautical negligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is photo documentation so important?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Photo documentation is the most important piece of evidence in the entire claims process. Without meaningful photos before and after the transport, it is almost impossible to successfully enforce a claim for damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How to document your vehicle correctly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Before shipping: <\/strong>Photograph the entire vehicle from all angles - front, rear, both sides, roof, wheel rims and interior. Make sure the lighting is good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Existing damage: <\/strong>Document all existing scratches, dents or other defects in detail with close-up photos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Mileage: <\/strong>Take a photo of the speedometer. This way you can prove whether the vehicle was moved without authorisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Condition Report: <\/strong>Compare the photos with the condition report of the terminal and make sure that all previous damage is correctly recorded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>After arrival: <\/strong>Photograph the vehicle again from the same angles immediately after unloading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find detailed tips on photo documentation here: https:\/\/odsorient.com\/schaeden-vermeiden-foto-protokoll-pre-inspection-im-roro-prozess<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What do you have to do if damage is detected?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you discover damage to your vehicle when you pick it up at the port of destination, quick and correct action is crucial for your claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Report damage immediately: <\/strong>Inform the terminal operator and your forwarding agent immediately. The notification must be made before leaving the harbour area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Written notification of damage: <\/strong>Have the damage noted in the unloading condition report. Insist on a written confirmation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Photo documentation: <\/strong>Photograph the damage in detail from several angles, including overview shots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Notify carrier: <\/strong>The Carrier must be informed of the damage in writing within 3 days of unloading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Obtain an expert opinion: <\/strong>In the event of major damage, an independent expert opinion is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Inform your insurance company: <\/strong>If you have transport insurance, report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Important: Visible damage must be reported at the time of unloading. A period of 3 days generally applies to concealed damage. If this deadline is missed, it can be difficult to enforce the claim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does the claims process work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The claims process follows a structured procedure. The better prepared you are, the faster and more successful the settlement will be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will need the following documents for a complete claim:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Written notification of damage to the carrier (within the deadline).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Condition report on loading (port of departure) and unloading (port of destination).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Photo documentation before and after transport.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Copy of the Bill of Lading (B\/L).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Commercial invoice or proof of value of the vehicle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cost estimate for the repair or expert opinion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance policy (if available).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The processing time depends on the complexity of the case and the carrier. Simple cases can be finalised within a few weeks, while more complex claims can take several months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is carrier liability usually not sufficient?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As already explained, the carrier's liability under the Hague-Visby Rules is limited to a fraction of the actual value of the vehicle. In addition, the carrier can assert numerous exclusions of liability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Carrier is not liable for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Force majeure (storms, natural disasters).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nautical fault of the crew.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fire on board (unless caused by the Carrier).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inherent defects of the vehicle.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Actions of enemies or pirates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Having your own transport insurance is therefore the only way to insure the full value of your vehicle. The cost of a policy is disproportionate to the potential damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find a comparison of insurance tariffs here: https:\/\/odsorient.com\/transportversicherung-bei-roro-5-tarife-im-vergleich<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which transport insurance is recommended for RoRo?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A good transport insurance policy for RoRo shipments should fully cover the value of the vehicle and contain as few exclusions as possible. There are various types of cover that are suitable for different requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type of cover<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Scope<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Recommendation<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>ICC (A) - All Risks<\/td><td>Most comprehensive protection, covers all risks (with a few exceptions)<\/td><td>Recommended for high-quality vehicles<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>ICC (B)<\/td><td>Covers defined risks such as stranding, fire, collision<\/td><td>Basic protection for standard transport<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>ICC (C)<\/td><td>Minimal protection, only total loss and severe damage<\/td><td>Not recommended for vehicle transport<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We generally recommend an ICC (A) All Risks policy as it offers the most comprehensive cover. The costs are usually a small percentage of the vehicle value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For personalised advice on transport insurance, please contact us at https:\/\/odsorient.com\/kontakt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ - Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the carrier's maximum liability for RoRo damage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>According to the Hague-Visby Rules, the maximum liability is 2 SDR per kilogramme or 666.67 SDR per package. For an average vehicle, this means an upper limit of around 3,600 euros.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I have to report the damage immediately at the harbour?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, visible damage must be reported immediately upon unloading. A period of 3 days generally applies to concealed damage. Do not miss these deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need my own transport insurance?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Transport insurance is not required by law, but is strongly recommended. Carrier liability only covers a fraction of the value of the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does an ICC (A) All Risks policy cover?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An ICC (A) policy offers the most comprehensive protection and covers all transport risks - with a few defined exceptions such as war, nuclear energy and wilful acts by the policyholder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who prepares the condition report and why is it important?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The condition report is created by the terminal operator during loading and unloading. It documents the vehicle condition and is the central basis for damage claims.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I also report damage after leaving the harbour?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Concealed damage can be reported within 3 days of unloading. In the case of visible damage, it is much more difficult to report after leaving the harbour area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Damage during RoRo transport is rare, but not impossible. Carrier liability under the Hague-Visby Rules is very limited and is rarely sufficient to cover the actual value of the vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most important protective measures are complete photographic documentation, careful examination of the condition report and your own transport insurance. In the event of damage, quick action and correct reporting within the deadlines are crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have questions about loss prevention or insurance? Contact us at https:\/\/odsorient.com\/kontakt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you have any questions or would you like a non-binding offer? Contact us directly: https:\/\/odsorient.com\/kontakt<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>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.<\/em><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Wenn bei einer RoRo-Verschiffung ein Schaden an Ihrem Fahrzeug entsteht, ist schnelles und dokumentiertes Handeln entscheidend. Die Haftung des Carriers ist nach den Hague-Visby Rules stark begrenzt \u2013 in der Regel auf ca. 2 SDR pro Kilogramm. Eine eigene Transportversicherung schlie\u00dft diese L\u00fccke. Der Schaden muss sofort bei Entladung gemeldet und l\u00fcckenlos per Foto dokumentiert [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1205,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1204","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1204","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1204"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1204\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1206,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1204\/revisions\/1206"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1205"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1204"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1204"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/odsorient.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1204"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}