"Ship your car with RoRo," someone may tell you, a car shipping rookie. RoRo means Roll-on/Roll-off shipping, a widely used technique for exporting automobiles abroad.
But if you're a rookie, you may wonder how to book your car on a RoRo ship.
There is no need to stress; we have all the answers you want and more useful info.
We'll walk you through the booking steps. You'll have everything you need to know about successfully reserving your automobile in a roll-on/roll-off transport and sending it to your selected location.
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a RoRo
Booking a roll-on/roll-off transport shipping service doesn't have to be daunting. With the appropriate knowledge and direction, you can quickly arrange for overseas delivery of your car.
An outline of the procedure is provided below to get you started:
- Get an estimate of shipping costs. Contact the carrier directly for a quote on international motorcar transportation, including port fees, taxes, insurance fees, etc.
- Choose the right roll-on/roll-off transport carrier. Choosing an experienced and reputable company that offers reliable services and competitive rates can make a difference.
- Prepare your vehicle for shipment. Remove your personal belongings from the automobile and check with the carrier for any other specific requirements that they may have.
- Book your shipment date and time with the carrier. Most carriers require a deposit before booking your shipment date. It's usually around 25% of the total cost of shipping, so prepare your payment when you book your shipment date and time slot.
- Arrange transport for your vehicle. Have a tow truck collect it from your home or drive it to the port yourself. If you're driving, leave plenty of time for delays.
Following our tips to simplify the process, booking a RoRo shipper should be easy and stress-free.
1) Get an estimate
Booking your automobile for RoRo transport is a straightforward process.
Depending on where you live, the first step is to find a RoRo supplier in your neighborhood or online.
You can use online search engines, classifieds, directories, and reviews to narrow down your list. Find the provider that best suits your shipping needs.
Your car's size and weight will determine the transport cost. Ensure the quote has all the taxes, port fees, and customs fees you must pay.
Get at least three estimates and compare prices. You should also examine the companies' services to determine whether they meet your shipping requirements.
Ask about special offers and discounts available; this can significantly affect the final price.
So if you want to save money on international car shipping, RoRo is worth considering.
2) Choose the right carrier
Once you have decided to ship your motorcar with a roll-on/roll-off transport carrier, the next step is choosing the right one to satisfy your needs.
When selecting the best RoRo carrier for you, the most important thing is to ensure they offer reliable and secure transportation services.
Price is important, but you must also look at their online reviews and reputation, years in operation, services available, schedule availability, and delivery dates.
Check their customer service—were they cordial and patient with your questions? Do they have GPS tracking? Ensure they have liability insurance and that it is included. Do you need pick-up services to get it to the vessel?
Ensure the RoRo carrier fits all of your requirements before signing anything.
3) Prepare your vehicle
Preparation is key when it comes to booking your motorcar in RoRo. Some basic requirements are necessary before your vehicle is ready for transportation. Here are some tips:
- Confirm the car has enough gasoline for loading and unloading
- Ensure the battery is connected and operational
- Remove any loose items or objects that could get damaged in transit from your vehicle (including tools, jacks, spare tires, personal belongings, and anything else that can move during transport)
- Do a pre-shipment inspection report to document any pre-existing damage
- Take photos of your automobile, as it will be your ticket if it experiences mishandling before arriving at its destination.
- If you're transporting a classic or antique car, provide documentation of its value so you can insure it properly during transit
4) Book your shipment
You must first complete the booking form available on the website. Basic information about the shipped vehicle is required, such as:
- The car's make and model
- Its year of manufacture
- Its estimated value
Ensure you have all the documents ready such as title, registration, and bill of lading (BOL), for when your vehicle arrives at the port.
Once you've completed and submitted the form, you'll receive booking details in your confirmation email.
5) Arrange transport
The next step is to arrange for transportation.
You can do this by having the vehicle picked up from your location or dropped off at the nearest port.
Upon arrival at the port, check in immediately with the shipping company you've hired to handle your vehicle. Give the company the necessary paperwork, such as proof of ownership and insurance documents.
Then, your car will be driven onto the RoRo ship, where it will be loaded and start its trip across the ocean.
Convenience
Roll-on/roll-off transport shipping is a great option for convenience. Unlike with others, draining the gas in your automobile or disconnecting the battery is not a worry with this method.
It also means that you can drive directly from the port of arrival.
Due to their roll-on and roll-off nature, loading and unloading are much simpler. Your car will be safe on board, with minimal handling required.
Increased port options for roll-on/roll-off transport vessels are possible because their flat bottom can access shallow rivers or ports.
Compared to other shipping methods, RoRo gets your vehicle shipped quickly and efficiently with less hassle for you.
Shipping Protection
Shipping overseas by marine transportation often means journeying against the elements. To avoid damage, consider requesting suitable coverage for your vehicle during transport.
Depending on the type of vessel and its loading requirements, the cover might be the best solution for shielding the exterior of your motorcar.
This protective layer can protect your automobile from extreme weather scenarios such as high wind, rain, and snow. It will be particularly helpful if your car is highly valuable.
Required Paperwork
Once everything is in order, it's time to book your RoRo shipment.
When booking, provide the following information:
- Vehicle registration
- Destination port
- Bill of lading
- Insurance certificate
- Driver's license
- Customs paperwork
Complete all forms carefully and correctly because they will be needed when the car arrives at the port.
Hauling Ferries
Roll-on/roll-off transport ferries are a great option for those transporting their vehicle across larger bodies of water.
These ships offer a practical means of transporting automobiles, whether short or long distance, from one place to another.
RoRo ferries can have various amenities, such as lounges and restaurants, so passengers can travel comfortably.
They also provide several further services, such as car-washing facilities and garages.
What a comfortable way to travel with your vehicle to a destination vacation.
Securing Experts for the Most Popular Shipping Method Worldwide
Roll-on/roll-off transport shipping is one of the most popular forms of worldwide shipping.
It is an effective and affordable method for transporting autos, boats, and other kinds of freight across borders.
RoRo vessels are designed specifically for this type of shipping and can transport large volumes of cargo at once.
With a changeable deck, they can carry any wheeled cargo, such as buses, RVs, construction equipment, military equipment, and more.
These ingenious vessels are so versatile and well-designed to handle anything on wheels.
Booking your car in roll-on/roll-off transport with A1 Auto Transport will save you time and money. You can experience convenience and peace of mind during the RoRo process with us. So get a free quote now.