Shipping Your Car Overseas? RoRo Might Be the Best Option

Imagine this: you're relocating overseas for a new job, a military assignment, or maybe you're finally making that dream move to a tropical island. Your next question is, “How do I ship my car there affordably and securely?” One of the most popular and cost-effective methods? RoRo shipping — short for Roll-On/Roll-Off. It’s exactly what it sounds like: your car is rolled onto a specialized vessel, secured for the journey, and rolled off at its destination.

But what does it actually cost to ship a car via RoRo? And how do you ensure you're getting the best value for your money?

Let’s break it all down.

What Is RoRo Car Shipping?

RoRo shipping involves driving your vehicle onto a large vessel designed specifically for transporting wheeled cargo like cars, motorcycles, and even trucks. It’s similar to parking in a floating garage, where vehicles are stored in enclosed decks and protected from the elements during the journey.

RoRo is especially attractive to those shipping operable vehicles internationally because it’s more affordable than container shipping — and much faster to load and unload.

What Affects RoRo Car Shipping Rates?

RoRo shipping rates can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are the primary elements that determine your total cost:

1. Distance and Route

The further the destination, the higher the cost. Popular shipping routes (like U.S. to Europe) tend to be more affordable than remote or less-serviced locations.

2. Vehicle Size and Weight

Heavier and larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) will cost more than standard sedans due to space and weight constraints on the vessel.

3. Port Fees and Customs Duties

Charges from both origin and destination ports can significantly impact your final bill. Always check the port fees and import regulations of the destination country.

4. Seasonal Demand

Like airline tickets, shipping costs fluctuate based on peak seasons. Booking in advance or during off-peak times can help reduce costs.

5. Fuel Surcharges and Carrier Fees

With fuel prices constantly fluctuating, many carriers include a variable fuel surcharge. It's a good idea to ask your shipper about this upfront.

Average RoRo Shipping Rates (2025 Estimates)

To give you a ballpark idea, here are average RoRo shipping rates for standard vehicles from the U.S.:

RouteEstimated Cost (Sedan)East Coast USA to Europe$900 – $1,500West Coast USA to Asia$1,200 – $2,000Gulf Coast to Middle East$1,000 – $1,800East Coast to West Africa$1,200 – $2,300

Note: These are general estimates and subject to change based on current fuel prices, demand, and vehicle dimensions.

Tips for Getting the Best RoRo Shipping Rate

Compare quotes from multiple carriers.

Book early to avoid peak season surcharges.

Prepare your car properly – it must be operable and clean.

Use a rate calculator to estimate total costs in advance.

Plan Your Shipment with Our RoRo Shipping Cost Calculator!

Tired of waiting days just to get a basic shipping quote? ShipA1 makes it simple. With 16+ years in vehicle transportation and a track record of thousands of happy customers, ShipA1 offers real-time RoRo shipping quotes using our user-friendly online calculator.

You’ll get:

• Instant cost estimates based on your route and vehicle
• No hidden fees
• Nationwide pickup and drop-off options
• Transparent and reliable service from start to finish

Ready to see how much your RoRo shipment will cost?

Try RoRo car shipping rates calculator now and plan your shipment with confidence!