Two ways to move a vehicle overseas, and the trade-offs that decide which one fits an order.
The choice is not about which method is better in general. It is about how many cars you are moving, whether they run, how much protection they need and which ports the route serves.
This page compares the two methods on the points that change the landed cost.
Ro-Ro is usually cheaper per vehicle for running cars in volume, because the vehicle is driven on and off and needs no packing. A container is better for one to four cars that need protection, for non-running units, or when spare parts travel with the vehicle. For a single car, a consolidated container can be competitive; for a full load, the choice between Ro-Ro and a dedicated 40HQ depends on the route and vehicle size.
| Factor | Ro-Ro | Container (20ft / 40HQ) |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Running vehicles, volume | 1–4 cars, protection, non-running units |
| Loading | Driven on and off | Packed and secured inside |
| Cost profile | Lower per unit at volume | Higher per unit for a single car; falls when shared |
| Transit | Typically 25–40 days | Typically 25–40 days |
| Protection | Less weather protection | Enclosed; better for high-value cars |
| Spare parts | Usually not combined | Can travel with the vehicle |
| Ports | Ro-Ro berths only | Container terminals, wider choice |
Ro-Ro works when the cars run, the order is large enough to fill space, and the destination has a Ro-Ro berth. There is no packing cost and no container to return, so the per-unit cost falls as volume rises. It is the standard method for dealer volumes into established vehicle ports.
A container wins for high-value cars that need protection, for non-running or damaged units, for orders that include spare parts, and for inland destinations where the container can move by rail or truck without rehandling. A consolidated container is the usual answer for a single car.
Route and vessel space, season, vehicle size, and the insurance terms. A route with frequent Ro-Ro sailings can be cheaper than a container route with a transshipment. Confirm the sailing schedule and the insurance cover for the method you choose before booking.
Transit times and costs are indicative and depend on route, season and vessel space. Insurance cover and carrier terms are confirmed per shipment.
Send the model, quantity and destination port. We will reply with the shipping options, indicative transit and the documents required.
Freight and terms are confirmed at booking.
