Start with a clear enquiry and choose your shipping method
Begin by sending a detailed enquiry to your supplier. State the vehicle make, model, year range, quantity, and your destination port. Ask whether the supplier offers both container loading and RoRo for your route. Container loading secures the car inside a metal box, while RoRo means the car is driven onto a vessel. Your choice affects inspection, payment, and customs steps, so decide early.
Ask your supplier to explain how each method handles vehicle condition and access. For container loading, you may need to know if the car is loaded alone or with other cargo. For RoRo, confirm whether the vehicle must be drivable. Request a written summary of the loading process, because this will guide your inspection and document checklist.
Inspect the vehicle and confirm payment terms
Before payment, arrange an inspection. For container loading, ask for photos or a video of the car before it is placed inside the container. For RoRo, request images of the vehicle at the port or yard. Check the VIN, mileage, and visible condition. If you cannot inspect in person, ask your supplier to provide a condition report. Do not rely on verbal descriptions alone.
Payment terms should be agreed in writing. Common methods include bank transfer or letter of credit, but you must confirm what your supplier accepts. Ask for a proforma invoice that lists the vehicle details, shipping method, and total amount. Do not send money until you have the invoice and inspection report. Keep records of every payment for customs and your own accounting.
Loading, documents, and customs clearance
Once payment is confirmed, the supplier arranges loading. For container loading, the car is secured inside the container and the container is sealed. For RoRo, the car is driven onto the vessel and parked. Ask your supplier for the loading date and the vessel name. After loading, request copies of the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. These documents are needed for customs.
Customs clearance depends on your country's rules. You will need the original bill of lading, invoice, and proof of payment. For container loading, you may also need a container seal number. For RoRo, the vehicle must be collected from the port. Work with a local customs broker to submit documents and pay duties. Do not release the bill of lading until you have confirmed all charges.
Compare container loading and RoRo for your first order
Container loading offers better protection from weather and theft because the car is inside a sealed box. It can also carry spare parts or other cargo with the vehicle. However, container loading may require more handling at the port and can be slower to unload. RoRo is often simpler for a single running vehicle, but the car is exposed during the voyage and must be drivable.
For your first import order, ask your supplier which method is available for your route and vehicle type. Consider the vehicle's condition, your budget, and your destination port's facilities. If you need extra security, container loading may suit you. If you want a straightforward roll-on roll-off process, RoRo may be easier. Always confirm the total cost and document requirements for each option before you commit.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the main difference between container loading and RoRo for used cars?
- Container loading places the car inside a sealed metal container, offering more protection from weather and theft. RoRo means the car is driven onto the vessel and parked, which is often simpler but exposes the vehicle during the voyage.
- Which shipping method is better for my first import order?
- It depends on your route, vehicle condition, and budget. Ask your supplier which method is available and compare total costs and document requirements. Container loading may suit you if you need extra security, while RoRo may be easier for a single running vehicle.
- What documents do I need for customs with container loading or RoRo?
- You will need the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin. For container loading, also keep the container seal number. For RoRo, the vehicle must be collected from the port. Work with a local customs broker to submit documents and pay duties.
