Roll-On, Roll-Off, or as it is colloquially referred to as RO-RO is an established cargo shipping methodology that revolves around easy-to-manage, autonomous shipment items. Typically, RO-RO shipping is focused on vehicular transportation, as is the case with international car manufacture and global delivery. However, even localized, cross-river or cross-ocean (France to the UK, for example) RO-RO cargo delivery is used to achieve the same results.
But what makes RO-RO cargo delivery a good choice for shipping companies, as well as their clients, compared to traditional cargo handling operations? In addition, what are the necessary precautions you should consider when handling RO-RO cargo shipments, both as a client or a shipping handler?
Advantages of RO-RO Cargo Shipping
Let’s start off by exploring the ways in which RO-RO cargo delivery differs from traditional shipping. Roll-On, Roll-Off cargo relies on the fact that each piece of equipment or a vehicle is autonomous in its movement and handling.
In practice, this translates to easier shipside space management, faster loading and unloading, as well as streamlined weight and security organization. This is due to the fact that a certain Toyota or Peugeot car model simply weighs and is of certain dimensions by factory standards. In the case of vehicular RO-RO, this allows for highly intuitive cargo management, quality control and safety measures before, during and after the shipping process.
Kayla Mitchel, Head of Business Operations at Subjecto, had this to say: “As both cheap and accessible, RO-RO shipping represents a good investment. RO-RO has ensured that industries have a much easier time moving physical equipment across the globe for the benefit of their clients and bottom lines. Whether you are a car owner in need of transportation or a business owner with numerous vehicles in need of shipping, RO-RO is irreplaceable.”
To draw a proverbial line, the most concrete and practical advantages of RO-RO cargo shipping include:
- Simple and intuitive docking without special equipment requirements
- Fast-tracked loading and unloading processes due to autonomous cargo movement
- Standardized and streamlined paperwork designed specifically for RO-RO shipments
- Suitable for both oceanic and localized cargo delivery routes
Safety Precautions and Innovation Opportunities in RO-RO
Ensure the Rolling Functionality
Given the nature of RO-RO, it’s important that each individual item on your shipping manifest is functional in terms of its autonomous movement. The ability to “roll” the cargo in question around the deck and fit as many additional items and vehicles on the shipment itself is pivotal. This allows for easier handling of cargo manifests for the increased speed and efficiency of the final delivery made for your contractor.
In case of private transportation (like your own vehicle), these concerns should be checked before the shipment is delivered to the cargo handler. In addition, cargo insurance can be applied for to remain on the safe side for your cargo in case of damage or mishandling. Make sure that each item is capable of individual movement into and around the deck and you will have a much better experience with RO-RO.
Disable or Remove Electronic Batteries
Typically, RO-RO shipments include a number of vehicles with their own power batteries and electronic devices such as anti-theft systems. To ensure a smooth transition from one port to another, it’s good practice to disable or outright remove these devices from individual vehicles. The reasons for this are similar to why “airplane mode” exists for skyline transportation.
Devices in question can make shipside communication, electronic navigation and other functions necessary for effective shipping malfunction during the trip. Additionally, customs clearance can also be necessary if you intend to ship RO-RO cargo overseas or to countries with vastly different laws from your own. Make sure that electronic devices and batteries in your RO-RO cargo manifest do not intervene with safe and timely delivery by taking necessary precautions.
RO-RO Quotes Matter
As is the case with any type of cargo shipping, RO-RO does require you to find a good quote for your transportation before you commit. International shipping businesses will offer affordable deals under different circumstances which you should take into account in terms of RO-RO specifically. Request a quote from a shipping business by outlining what type of RO-RO cargo you intend to ship, its optimal timeline and other details.
While RO-RO shipping is cost-effective and won’t require high expenditure on your part, you can still get a good deal by exploring your options. In addition, some delivery companies might have specific ships designed for RO-RO on hand, ensuring that the delivery time and ROI is worth the effort.
Paperwork Approval Prior to Shipping
Depending on the type of RO-RO cargo you intend to ship, its destination as well as application, certain paperwork may be required prior to shipping. Shipping companies typically offer a number of certification services which can ease your process of approval and subsequent cargo management at a fair price.
RO-RO shipping is no different, and while it may revolve around autonomously-moving cargo, certificates of local and state approval still apply. This is especially true for construction or heavy-weight transportation vehicles which will continue their travel route once they disembark at the point of arrival. Failing to comply with required certification often leads to return costs as well as additional wait and approval associated with your RO-RO shipment – be proactive.
RO-RO Cargo Shipping Points of Content
While RO-RO is an affordable, efficient and easy-to-handle shipping method for autonomous cargo (such as vehicles), it is not without its faults. As with other forms of cargo shipping, RO-RO comes with its set of considerations and potential bottlenecks which you should take into account before commitment.
- Geographic limitations apply given the nature of RO-RO shipments. A full shipment of vehicles transported from one continent to another will require additional safety precautions, refueling stops, or multiple trips to be fully realized.
- Container shipping is still a possibility with RO-RO items depending on the fragility and nature of its contents. However, it would naturally incur additional costs in terms of handling. It’s good practice to discuss your cargo details with the shipping company during the quote request process.
- Certain land-locked or third-country destinations might not be able to receive RO-RO shipments without additional certification, international approval paperwork and other permits. Inquire about the specifics for each individual shipment before you set sail in order to avoid problems with local and international authorities.
In Conclusion
Logistically, RO-RO cargo delivery is one of the most flexible and cost-effective ways to ensure that your shipment arrives at its destination. However, it’s important not to blow things out of proportion and still consider its limitations and niche application as a vehicle-first transportation system. Gauge your options and project the cargo you are about to request a quote for – you will undoubtedly find a professional RO-RO shipping company quickly.
