The Ship Cars

    RoRo Car Shipping from the UK — Roll-On Roll-Off Vehicle Export

    The most popular and cost-effective way to ship running vehicles internationally. Drive on, sail away.

    Quick answer

    What is roro shipping?

    RORO shipping carries roadworthy vehicles on specialist vessels. The vehicle is driven aboard, secured for the voyage and collected at the destination port; it is usually the simplest sea-freight option for a running car.

    The Ship Cars is the vehicle shipping agent division of Ascope Shipping Services LTD, registered in England.

    Vehicles prepared for roll-on roll-off shipping at a UK port
    Roadworthy vehicles travel on specialist roll-on roll-off vessels.

    What Are the Pros and Cons of RoRo Car Shipping?

    Most Cost-Effective

    RORO is the cheapest way to ship a running vehicle internationally. No container costs, no crating — just drive on and go.

    Regular Sailing Schedules

    Weekly and bi-weekly departures from major UK ports mean shorter waiting times and more flexibility.

    Quick Loading & Unloading

    Vehicles are driven on and off the vessel, making the process faster than container loading.

    Specialist Vehicle Vessels

    RORO ships are purpose-built for vehicle transport with multi-deck car decks and professional lashing.

    Ideal for Running Vehicles

    Any self-propelled vehicle can be shipped via RORO — cars, SUVs, vans, trucks, and motorbikes on trailers.

    Marine Insurance Included

    Every RORO shipment through Ship Cars includes comprehensive marine transit insurance as standard.

    What Is RoRo Shipping and How Does It Work?

    01

    Get a Quote

    Tell us your vehicle details and destination. We'll provide a fixed-price RORO quote within 2 hours.

    02

    Book Your Sailing

    Confirm your booking and we'll reserve your space on the next available RORO vessel.

    03

    Deliver to Port

    Drive your vehicle to the designated UK port or use our door-to-port collection service.

    04

    Shipping & Tracking

    Your vehicle sails to the destination port. Track progress in real-time via our tracking system.

    05

    Collection at Destination

    Collect your vehicle from the destination port. We can arrange customs clearance and local delivery.

    How Much Does RoRo Shipping Cost from the UK?

    Prices are estimates for a standard car. Get an exact quote for your vehicle.

    Europe (Spain, Cyprus, Turkey)

    5–14 days transit

    £850

    Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia)

    14–25 days transit

    £1,350

    Africa (Nigeria, South Africa)

    14–28 days transit

    £1,200

    Americas (USA, Canada)

    14–28 days transit

    £1,600

    Asia & Oceania (Australia, Japan)

    21–45 days transit

    £1,800

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does RoRo mean in shipping?
    RORO means Roll-on/Roll-off: a running vehicle is driven onto a specialist vessel, secured for the voyage and driven off at the arrival port.
    Is RoRo shipping safe for my car?
    Vehicles are secured for the voyage and handled under carrier procedures. Photograph the car before delivery, confirm the condition report and review marine insurance; no shipping method is risk-free.
    Can I ship a non-running car using RoRo?
    Standard RORO bookings normally require a vehicle that runs, steers and brakes. Declare any fault before booking; specialist handling may need carrier approval, or a container may be more suitable.
    How long does RoRo shipping from the UK take?
    RORO transit varies by destination, port calls and sailing date. Check the current schedule for your arrival port and add time for receiving, customs clearance and onward delivery.
    What is the difference between RoRo and container car shipping?
    RORO loads the car directly onto the vessel and normally requires it to run. Container shipping secures it inside a steel container and can suit non-runners, classics and declared effects. Compare route-specific prices and handling requirements.
    Which UK ports offer RoRo car shipping?
    RORO services depart from ports including Southampton, Sheerness and Bristol (Portbury), depending on the destination and carrier. Follow the receiving address and closing date on your confirmed booking.
    Is my car exposed to weather on a RORO ship?
    No. Modern RORO vessels have enclosed car decks that protect vehicles from weather, salt spray, and sea conditions. Your car is stored below deck.
    Can I put personal items in my car for RORO shipping?
    Most shipping lines prohibit personal items in RORO vehicles. If you need to ship personal effects, container shipping is the better option.
    How is my car secured on the RORO ship?
    Vehicles are secured using professional wheel-lashing straps attached to the deck. This is the same system used by car manufacturers for new vehicle transport.

    Official government resources

    Always confirm current customs, duty and vehicle registration rules with the official authorities before you ship.

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    Ready to Ship?

    Get a free, no-obligation quote for roro shipping from the UK. Browse our destinations or use the cost calculator for an estimate.