RoRo transport, or Roll-on-Roll-off, is a widely used method of transporting vehicles and rolling cargo. The unique feature of RoRo transportation is that goods are driven directly on and off ships, unlike other transportation methods where cargo is first loaded into containers. Consider trucks, cars, trailers or even heavy machinery.
This transport method, developed in the 1950s, has transformed the maritime sector. Today, RoRo is an important link in the international logistics chain, especially for the automotive industry.
Types of RoRo transport
The RoRo fleet has several specializations:
- Pure Car Carriers (PCC): Specially designed for passenger car transport.
- Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC): Suitable for both cars and trucks. They offer more flexibility than PCCs.
- ConRo ships: Combining RoRo capacity with container transport
- Ferries / Ferries: For short routes carrying both freight and passengers. Consider ferry services between the United Kingdom and mainland Europe.
Each type of vessel has specific characteristics tailored to the cargo to be carried and the routes to be served.
RoRo ports and routes
The Netherlands plays an important role in the European RoRo network. The port of Rotterdam has specialized RoRo terminals that handle many ships daily. Other European ports such as Antwerp, Zeebrugge and Hamburg are also important hubs in the RoRo network.
From these ports, shipping companies maintain frequent connections to major destinations in the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and the Mediterranean.
Benefits of RoRo transport
RoRo transport offers several advantages:
- Fast loading and unloading times
- Less chance of cargo damage
- Flexibility in load type
- Cost-effective for rolling cargo
- Regular sailings on fixed routes
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Customs formalities for RoRo transport
Required documents
Carriers must ensure correct customs documents, such as bills of lading (CMR), customs declarations and a cargo list.
Customs clearance process
In cross-border transportation, customs formalities handled at the RoRo terminal, often in cooperation with local authorities.
Brexit impact on RoRo traffic
Since the Brexit, customs requirements for transportation between the UK and the EU have become more complex. Carriers must provide additional documents, such as import declaration and export declaration.
Considerations for shippers
Always check for document validity and allow for longer processing times at ports.
RoRo versus other transportation methods
Compared to container transport, RoRo offers specific advantages for rolling cargo. Whereas containers are excellent for stacked goods, RoRo differentiates in the transportation of vehicles and large equipment. The choice between the two methods depends on:
- Load type
- Destination
- Required speed
- Cost Structure
- Available facilities
The future prospect
The RoRo sector is constantly evolving. Key trends include:
- Fleet sustainability
- Digitization of processes
- Automation in ports
- Development of new routes
Frequently asked questions about Roll-on-Roll-off (RoRo)
How long does it take to load a RoRo ship?
Loading time varies from several hours to a day, depending on vessel size and number of vehicles.
Which goods are suitable for RoRo transport?
Vehicles, trailers, agricultural machinery and other rolling cargo are ideal for RoRo transport.
What are the costs of RoRo transport?
Costs vary depending on cargo size, route and port fees.
