Choosing how to ship your car is a big part of moving it internationally or sending it to a new destination. The shipping service you choose can shape your costs, the logistics of the trip, and how safe your car stays. You’ll hear about two main shipping services: RoRo and container car shipping.
This guide explains how each shipping method works and when you might choose one over the other.
What Is RoRo Shipping?
RoRo shipping, short for roll-on/roll-off, uses ships designed to handle vehicles by simply driving them on and off. These vessels have wide ramps and inside decks, almost like a moving garage. During a roro shipment, vehicles stay parked inside for the whole trip.
RoRo works best if your car, SUV, truck, or bus can move on its own. It’s a popular choice for sending vehicles overseas on busy trade lanes because it’s quick and often cheaper.
What Is Container Car Shipping?
Container car shipping places your car inside a shipping container. The car and any extra cargo stay protected from the weather and rough handling once the container is sealed shut. This shipping method works for any vehicle, even if it can’t move.
You can use a 20ft container or a 40ft container to ship more vehicles. You can also choose an exclusive container, called FCL (Full Container Load), if you want the whole box just for your car and personal cargo. Or you can share space in a shared container, also known as LCL (Less than Container Load), if you’re only shipping one car and want to keep costs down.
In either case, your car and any other cargo stay sealed during the trip.
If you want to see how many cars can fit in a container, check out this guide: How many cars fit inside a shipping container.
Key Differences: Quick Comparison
Here’s a simple way to see how RoRo and container shipping stack up. RoRo shipping is often cheaper and faster, while container shipping gives you better protection and more flexibility.
| Factor | RoRo Shipping | Container Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually cheaper for moving standard cars | More expensive if you need your own container, cheaper if you share |
| Protection | Cars is free standing inside RoRo vessel. | Fully sealed inside container, so it’s safe from the elements |
| Speed | Quicker since ships leave often | Can take longer if you’re sharing a container |
| Car Condition | Only for cars that can move | Works for cars that can’t drive too |
| Extra Items | Only the car itself | Can include spare parts or furniture if you need |
When to Choose RoRo Shipping
RoRo shipping works best if you have a standard car that can drive. It’s the most cost-friendly choice when you just want to move the car itself without any extras. RoRo ships leave often on busy trade lanes, and their fast loading and unloading makes them a good choice if you need to get your car moving quickly and safely.
RoRo works well for car dealers moving bulk shipments on trade lanes with frequent departures. It’s also the best choice if your car is too big for a container.
When to Choose Container Shipping
Container shipping is the better pick if you need extra protection for your car. It’s also handy if the car doesn’t run or if you want to pack extra items with it. The sealed container keeps your car safe from the weather and bumps along the way.
For luxury cars, classic models, or if you’re moving your whole home, container shipping is often the safer bet. It might cost more, but it gives you peace of mind and the chance to ship other belongings with your car.
Examples: When to use which transport method
A car dealer in Auckland wants to send a few Toyota Hilux trucks to Kenya. These are standard, reliable vehicles that can drive on and off a ship without trouble. For them, RoRo shipping is a smart choice. It costs less and ships out faster, so the dealer can keep up with demand.
In another case, someone moving to the UK wants to take their classic 1968 Mustang. They’ve spent years fixing it up and want to make sure it stays safe during the trip. For them, container shipping makes more sense. It costs a bit more, but the Mustang stays locked in a sealed box, safe from the salty air and sea spray. Plus, they can ship a few spare parts and personal items in the same box.
Customs, Insurance, and Documents
When you’re shipping a car overseas you also need to think about insurance and customs paperwork. RoRo shipping usually has limited insurance, only covering total loss. That can keep costs down but doesn’t help if your car has small damage along the way. Container shipping often has better insurance because the sealed box makes it easier to track and protect.
Don’t forget to think about insurance. It can save you a lot of trouble if things don’t go to plan. You’ll also need a Bill of Lading to show what you’re shipping, where it’s going, and who’s handling it.
Check out our shipping documentation templates ready to use!
Common Questions about shipping cars
What is the difference in port fees for RoRo and container shipping?
Port fees for RoRo are often lower since cars are just driven on and off the ship. This quick process needs less heavy lifting gear and port work, so the fees stay lower compared to containers that need cranes and extra handling.
Do I need to remove the car’s fuel or battery for container shipping?
You don’t need to remove the car’s fuel or battery for container shipping, but the fuel tank should be drained to 1/4 or less (sometimes fully empty), and the battery must be disconnected, secured, and insulated. Confirm specific requirements with your shipping company and destination country.
Can I ship a motorcycle or scooter with RoRo?
Yes, RoRo ships can carry motorcycles and scooters as long as they can roll on their own wheels. These ships handle any vehicle that can move, so bikes are loaded just like cars and safely parked for the journey.
Can I ship extra goods with RoRo?
No, RoRo is only for moving the vehicle itself. Port workers need to check that cars are empty so they can be safely loaded and secured. If you need to move other things, container shipping is a better choice.
Which is cheaper for a short trip?
For short trips, RoRo usually costs less. The simple loading process and steady trade routes make it a more affordable way to move your car when you’re not adding other items.
