Direct answer: Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) shipping drives the car onto a vessel and is usually the lower-cost option. Container shipping places the car inside a shipping container, which gives more protection from weather, handling and theft, and lets you ship personal items. Choose RoRo for a standard car with no personal goods, and container for a valuable, modified or fragile car. Confirm current rates and terms with your forwarder.
What is the difference between RoRo and container shipping?
In RoRo shipping the car is driven or winched onto a dedicated car carrier and secured on deck. In container shipping the car is driven or lifted into a standard steel container, which is then sealed and loaded onto a container ship. Both methods carry the car overseas. They differ in protection, cost, paperwork and what else you can send.
How does RoRo shipping work?
- The car is driven or winched onto the vessel at the port.
- It is secured on deck with straps and wheel chocks.
- It is collected at the destination port after customs clearance.
- Cargo is exposed to the elements in the port and on deck, depending on the vessel and route.
How does container shipping work?
- The car is driven or lifted into a container at a container yard.
- The container is sealed and loaded onto a container ship.
- The container is opened at the destination for customs inspection and collection.
- Personal effects and spare parts can usually be packed alongside the car, subject to the carrier's rules and customs rules.
Which method suits which car?
- RoRo: A standard, low-value or budget car where cost matters most and personal items are not needed.
- Container: A valuable, modified, fragile or rare car, or one you want to ship with spare parts and personal belongings.
- Either: Check that the car fits the carrier's size and weight limits.
How do they compare on protection?
Containers protect the car from weather, salt spray, stone chips, theft and accidental damage during loading. RoRo cargo is more exposed. Ask the forwarder about insurance for either method, and check what the insurance covers and excludes.
How do they compare on cost?
RoRo is usually the lower-cost method. Container shipping adds cost but may be worth it for protection or for personal goods. This article does not quote rates, because they change with route, season, vessel availability and carrier. Ask for a written quote that lists each charge.
What should you ask a forwarder?
- Which method is offered for the route and the destination port
- The estimated transit time and sailing schedule
- What the quote includes, such as export fees, port charges and insurance
- Whether personal items can be shipped and what the limits are
- Cancellation and storage charges if the car is not collected on time
What can go wrong?
Delays in port, missed collection dates and storage charges are common problems with both methods. Damage claims depend on documentation and insurance, so photograph the car before loading and keep the export paperwork. Check the terms before you pay.
Related guides
FAQ
Is RoRo always cheaper?
Usually, but compare written quotes for your route.
Can I send personal items in a RoRo car?
Generally not. Check the carrier's rules.
Is container shipping safer?
It offers more protection, but it does not remove the need for insurance.
How do I choose a forwarder?
Ask for written quotes, references and clear terms before you pay.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-20. Author: [AUTHOR NAME AND CREDENTIAL LINE - NOT SUPPLIED].
This article makes no legal, duty, tax or price claims. Import rules, duty rates, and taxes change. Confirm with your national registry or customs authority before you buy.
