Ro-Ro car transport

With Roll-on/Roll-off (RORO or ro-ro) shipping, your car or motorhome is transported on a vessel specially designed for carrying vehicles. You can think of a roll-on roll-off ship as a large floating car park. Vehicles are driven onto the ship by staff at the port of departure and securely fastened on deck. Upon arrival at the destination port, they are released and driven off the ship. Simple!

This method of shipping is often used by manufacturers and importers to transport large volumes of new cars, as well as other wheeled cargo such as truck trailers, semi-trailers, or heavy industrial and agricultural machinery like excavators or tractors. However, Ro-Ro can also be used for transporting individual vehicles for both private and business customers.

At SCL Rotterdam, we regularly use this modality for shipping vehicles that are too large to fit into a standard sea container. These are typically vehicles taller than 2.50 metres and/or wider than 2.25 metres. Thanks to our years of experience with large vehicles and intercontinental routes, Ro-Ro has become one of our trusted specialities — even for complex or unusual transports.

Important considerations for Ro-Ro vehicle transport

When shipping your vehicle via Ro-Ro transport, please take the following points into account:

• Ro-Ro is not available for all ports.
• It is generally not possible to ship personal belongings inside your car.
• The vehicle must be thoroughly cleaned before shipping, in accordance with the arrival country’s regulations.
• The car must be in good running condition and able to drive, brake and steer independently. Ensure there is enough fuel (but not too much — about 1/8 of a tank is usually sufficient). If the battery is weak, consider replacing it before shipment.

Our experts are happy to advise you on the most suitable shipping method for your vehicle. With our extensive experience, we can provide you with clear and reliable guidance.

When should you choose Ro-Ro transport?

Ro-Ro is especially suitable when:

• Your vehicle is too large for a container (e.g. motorhomes, pickups or SUVs with roof accessories).
• You are looking for a cost-efficient and safe way to transport your car.
• Your car is in good running condition and does not contain loose parts or luggage.
• Your shipment departs from or arrives at a port with Ro-Ro infrastructure (such as Baltimore, Dubai, Halifax or Yokohama).

Not sure if your vehicle is suitable for Ro-Ro? Contact us — we’ll give you honest and transparent advice about the options and alternatives, such as container transport. Check out our full range of transport services — from container and air freight to transport insurance and home delivery.

What does SCL handle for you?

At SCL Rotterdam, we take care of the entire process. We:

• Determine together with you whether Ro-Ro is the best option for your vehicle and destination.
• Arrange all necessary documentation, such as Bill of Lading, customs paperwork and export documents.
• Handle the customs clearance process in the Netherlands.
• Take care of technical inspection and registration.
• Can even deliver your vehicle to your home by road transport.

Did you know we can also help arrange transport insurance? In 90% of cases, we strongly recommend it, as standard car insurance does not cover damage during sea freight.

Why choose SCL Rotterdam?

• Specialist in non-European imports: Nearly 20 years of experience with car imports from Dubai, the US, Canada and Japan.

• One-stop-shop service: We offer more than just transport: purchase assistance, customs handling, insurance, inspection and registration – all under one roof.

• Complete inspection and registration: We ensure your car meets all European/Dutch requirements and handle everything with the inspection authorities, such as the RDW and, for example, the German TÜV.

• A team of true car enthusiasts: Our passion for cars translates into personal service and attention to detail.

• Hassle-free import process from A to Z: We take care of everything – fast, safe and transparent.

Want to know if RoRo is suitable for your car?

• Call us on +31 (0)10 427 77 20

• Or email sales@sclrotterdam.com

• Or request a free quotation directly.