RoRo — Roll-On / Roll-Off Vehicle Shipping

What is RoRo?

“RoRo” stands for Roll-On / Roll-Off — a freight shipping method designed specifically for vehicles and wheeled cargo. Rather than being lifted with cranes or packed into containers, vehicles are driven or towed directly onto a specialised RoRo vessel via built-in ramps, and then securely lashed down for transit.

RoRo vessels offer multi-level decks to accommodate cars, motorcycles, caravans, trailers, boats (on trailers), trucks, heavy machinery — basically any self-propelled or towable item that can roll on/off.

Once on board, your vehicle is stored below deck — enclosed, weather-protected, and secured for the ocean voyage, giving it strong protection from exposure, handling damage, or salt air. 

Why Choose RoRo With SEA GO

• Cost-effective — Compared with dedicated containers or other methods, RoRo tends to be more affordable for operable vehicles.

• Faster loading and unloading — Since vehicles roll on and off, port operations are quicker, reducing delays.

• Safe and secure transit — Vehicles are stored below deck on enclosed decks, minimising exposure to weather and handling damage.

• Flexible cargo — not just cars: suitable for cars, 4x4s, caravans, trailers, boats (on trailers), motorhomes, and certain machinery or commercial vehicles — provided they’re operable/self-propelled.

• Global coverage — We operate on key international routes connecting major ports worldwide: Europe, UK, USA, Asia, and Australia.

Is RoRo Right for You?

RoRo shipping works best when:

• Your vehicle is fully operational — it must be able to start, steer, and move under its own power.

• You are shipping just the vehicle — no personal possessions should be stored inside during transit (unlike container shipping). 

• You do not require container-level isolation — RoRo offers protection, but if you have a high-value classic or a non-running vehicle, container shipping might be more appropriate.

How RoRo Shipping Works – Step by Step

1. Vehicle delivery or collection — You drive (or we collect) your vehicle to the designated port.

2. Loading (“Roll-On”) — Using ramps, the vehicle is driven or towed onto the RoRo vessel. It is then secured using lashing straps, wheel chocks, and deck lashings to prevent movement during voyage.

3. Sea transit — The vehicle remains on an enclosed, secure deck — protected from elements, handling damage, or salt air impacts.

4. Unloading (“Roll-Off”) — Upon arrival, the vehicle is driven off and proceeds to customs clearance, quarantine inspection (if applicable), and delivery.

When RoRo Makes Sense — Common Use Cases

• Exporting or importing standard cars, 4x4s, SUVs, trucks.

• Shipping caravans, motorhomes, trailers, boats (on trailers), or drivable machinery.

• Clients who want a cost-efficient yet secure way to ship an operable vehicle internationally.

• When frequent sailing schedules or faster port turnaround gives you an advantage over container freight.

Important Considerations & Limitations

• Vehicle must be operable — RoRo is not suitable for non-running or project cars needing restoration or special handling.

• Personal belongings are not allowed inside — All personal effects must be removed before shipping.

• Route/Port limitations apply — Not all ports support RoRo operations; route availability depends on origin and destination ports.

• Best for standard cars, not high-value classics — For high value or collectible vehicles, container shipping might provide added protection.

Get a Quote / Book Your Shipment

Ready to ship your vehicle via RoRo? Contact SEA GO International today — we can help you get a personalised quote based on your vehicle, origin, destination port, and preferred schedule.

• Australia-wide call: 1300 885 888

• International call: +61 7 5531 6288

We’ll also guide you through any paperwork including vehicle import approvals, customs clearance, and biosecurity regulation for Australia.