What You Need To Know About Heavy Equipment RORO Shipping
If you are thinking about shipping heavy equipment internationally, RORO (Roll-On, Roll-Off) shipping may be the best option for you. Compared to other methods of ocean freight shifting, RORO has a number of key benefits including enhanced speed and convenience.
But if you’ve never moved a piece of heavy machinery using RORO shipping before, you may have some questions about the process and what to expect. In this guide from A-1 Auto Transport, we’ll discuss the basics, and help you learn everything that you need to know about heavy equipment.
Heavy Equipment Pricing & Time Examples
| Shipping To/FroM | Cost | Distance | Estimated Time In Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfield to Wichita | $1382 | 790 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Scottsdale to Cleveland | $3507 | 2004 miles | 6 - 8 days |
| Glendale to Newark | $709 | 405 miles | 3 - 5 days |
| Des Moines to Santa Ana | $2026 | 1158 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Fayetteville to Jersey City | $2296 | 1312 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Salt Lake City to Chandler | $2093 | 1196 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Sioux Falls to North Las Vegas | $2385 | 1363 miles | 4 - 6 days |
| Shreveport to Scottsdale | $2194 | 1254 miles | 4 - 6 days |
What Is RORO Shipping? Understanding The Basics
It is short for “Roll-On, Roll-Off” shipping. As the name implies, in this type of shifting, your equipment “rolls on” to the cargo ship when it’s initially shipped, and “rolls off” when it arrives at the destination port. Basically, your equipment will be driven directly into the cargo carrier using a ramp, and offloaded in the same manner.
This is in contrast to other methods of hauling like LOLO (Lift-On, Lift-Off) shipping, which uses cranes to load and unload cargo, usually in the form of standardized cargo containers. With this, your vehicle or equipment can be loaded quickly and easily, since it can simply be driven up the ramp and into the cargo hold of the ship, where it will be secured for transport.
Even heavy equipment and machinery that is not self-propelled – such as flat-bed trailers or grain carts – can be loaded using RORO shipping. They will simply be towed into position with a tractor or a truck, and then secured for shipping.
However, it is essential to realize that many companies will not accept heavy equipment that is not operational. For example, a heavy-duty diesel truck or crane that is not currently running due to engine issues or electrical problems may not be moved with RORO shipping.
Policies vary by carrier, so if you want to relocate non-functional and non-operational equipment, consult with your RORO carrier to see if they will accept the shipment.
What Are The Benefits This?
Choosing this for heavy equipment has a number of benefits, including faster overall transportation speed, a streamlined relocating preparation process, and enhanced convenience, since your equipment will not need to be disassembled to fit into one or more cargo containers. Let’s take a deeper look at these benefits now.
- Faster shipping speed – Cars, trucks, and heavy equipment can simply be driven directly into a RORO ship at your home port, and then driven off the ship at the destination port. There is no need to wait days for cargo containers to be unloaded and cataloged – you can usually access your heavy equipment as soon as the container ship makes port and begins the unloading process.
- Simpler shipping preparation process – You do not need to take as many steps to prepare your heavy equipment for shifting, and you can usually leave some fuel in the tank and leave the battery connected if the vehicle will be driven on and off the ship using its own power.
- Enhanced convenience – Your vehicle can remain completely intact during shipping, with no need to remove any components to fit it into a cargo container. It will be fully operational as soon as it’s moved to your destination, allowing you to benefit from enhanced convenience – and get it to your worksite and begin operations right away.
For all of these reasons, it is typically the best option if you need to relocate heavy machinery to another country, and you want to move it in a cost-effective, convenient manner.
How Long Does It Take To Send Equipment?
The transit time for sending heavy equipment can vary quite a bit. If you’re sending a piece of machinery from the USA to Canada, for example, your equipment may arrive within just two weeks or less. In contrast, sending equipment to Europe from the US may take anywhere from 3-5 weeks or longer.
After you contact a company for a quote for the delivery of your heavy equipment, they will give you a detailed overview of the time it will take for your machinery to arrive.
The time it takes to send your equipment depends on the destination you choose, the number of stops the RORO ship is making (if any) before it reaches your destination port, and a number of other factors. You’ll also need to consider the time it takes to clear customs when planning your shipment.
How Do I Prepare My Heavy Equipment For RORO Shifting?
You should clean out the interior of the machinery and remove any personal items or loose items. Any alarm systems, if present, should be disconnected. This is also a good time to check things like tire pressure (if applicable), look for leaks, and check on the overall maintenance status of your vehicle.
The fuel tank must usually be about ¼ full to ensure there is enough fuel to load and unload your vehicle in RORO shipping. Batteries can remain connected until your vehicle is loaded – though the freight company may choose to disconnect them in transit and reconnect them when your vehicle reaches its destination.
How Do I Send Heavy Equipment To Port?
Depending on your carrier, you have a few options. Some ocean freight carriers offer transportation to port as part of their services packages. If your carrier does not, you can hire a specialized heavy equipment transportation company to move your equipment by rail and/or truck, depending on your destination port. Or, if you have your own flatbeds and shifting equipment, you can handle the hauling process on your own.
Contact Us
At A-1 Auto Transport, we make it easy to relocate your heavy equipment anywhere in the world. We work with the most reputable freight companies in America, and can help you secure heavy equipment RORO shipping services for your equipment. Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 230-9116 to learn more and get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is heavy equipment RORO shipping?
Heavy equipment RORO shipping moves machines that can drive or be towed directly onto a roll-on/roll-off vessel. It is commonly used for forklifts, loaders, graders, and farm equipment. Costs are shaped by machine size, port selection, and international schedules. RORO is preferred when cranes are unnecessary or when equipment has operable wheels. Compared with containers, RORO typically offers faster port handling and lower lift fees. You can estimate pricing using our heavy equipment shipping rates page at heavy equipment shipping rates page.
How much does heavy equipment RORO shipping cost?
Most RORO moves fall between $1,000 and $5,000+ depending on distance, port access, equipment weight, and whether the unit rolls under its own power. International lanes with high frequency, such as the U.S.–Asia Pacific routes, typically offer more competitive pricing. Extra charges can apply for oversize dimensions or non-running equipment requiring tow tractors. For a more accurate number, use the heavy equipment shipping calculator at heavy equipment shipping calculator.
What types of heavy equipment qualify for RORO shipping?
RORO works for any unit that can roll or be safely towed, including loaders, bulldozers on rubber tracks, scissor lifts, telehandlers, cranes with rubberized carriers, and agricultural tractors. Ports may reject equipment with leaking hydraulics or unsafe tires, so most shippers perform basic readiness checks before drop-off. RORO is often chosen for wheeled machinery because it eliminates crane fees and speeds vessel loading.
Is RORO safer than container shipping for heavy equipment?
RORO is considered safe because equipment stays fully secured to a lower-deck cargo area designed for wheeled machinery. The unit remains protected from weather once inside the vessel. Container shipping offers more isolation but requires lifting, which can increase risk for oversized machines. Shippers choose RORO when weight, ground clearance, or dimension profile makes container handling difficult or expensive. Safety rules follow international port standards and carrier-specific lash requirements.
How do I prepare heavy equipment for RORO shipping?
Preparation involves cleaning the machine to port standards, securing loose attachments, verifying operability, and documenting dimensions for accurate booking. Many ports require removing buckets or aftermarket accessories to meet height rules. Fuel tanks are typically kept at minimal safe levels, and batteries should be functional for onboard driving. For broader guidance, see.
How long does international RORO shipping take for heavy equipment?
Most overseas RORO timelines run 2 to 6 weeks, influenced by port pairings, seasonal volume, customs workflow, and carrier sailing frequency. High-traffic routes like U.S.–Japan often move faster than lanes with limited monthly sailings. Pre-export inspections, agricultural cleanings, or title checks may add several days. Using ports with large RORO terminals typically shortens loading windows and reduces roll delays.
Share on Facebook
Share on LinkedIn
Share on Twitter
Google 
Instagram 
Dave C. 
Courtney J. 
Jeff D. 
Maria L. 
