RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping is the most economical method for international vehicle transport. From Canada, container shipping is the more practical direct option for most routes — direct RoRo sailings from Canadian ports are limited and most require in-bond trucking to a US East Coast port first. Viamar handles the complete process and explains all costs upfront.
A RoRo vessel is a purpose-built ship with ramps at bow and stern. Vehicles are driven aboard under their own power, secured to the deck with chains, transported across the ocean, and driven off at the destination. No containers, no cranes. This efficiency makes RoRo cheaper than container shipping — but it comes with important restrictions.
Direct RoRo sailings from Canadian ports (Halifax, Montreal, Vancouver) are extremely limited. Major RoRo carriers maintain their primary operations through US East Coast ports — Baltimore, New York/Newark, and Jacksonville. A RoRo shipment from Canada typically means: vehicle trucked in-bond to a US East Coast port, then loaded onto the RoRo vessel, then ocean transit to destination. In-bond trucking from the GTA to Baltimore adds approximately $300–$700 CAD and 1–2 weeks. Viamar coordinates this entire movement — one quote covering the inland leg, cross-border handling, US port fees, ocean freight, and marine insurance.
For West African routes (Nigeria, Ghana) and some Caribbean destinations, RoRo connections are more direct. For European routes, container from Halifax or Montreal is often faster door-to-door than RoRo via Baltimore.
| Factor | RoRo | Container (20ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost — Europe | $1,300–$2,800 + $300–$700 in-bond | $2,200–$4,000 direct |
| Direct from Canada | US port routing usually required | Yes — weekly sailings Halifax, Montreal |
| Personal items | Not permitted | Up to 100 kg allowed |
| Non-running vehicles | Not permitted | Yes — crane loaded |
| Weather protection | Exposed on deck | Fully enclosed |
Full guide: RoRo vs Container Shipping from Canada.
| Route | RoRo Ocean Freight (CAD) | In-Bond to US Port | Transit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europe (Italy, Germany, UK) | $1,300–$2,800 | $300–$700 | 5–8 weeks total |
| UAE / Dubai | $2,200–$4,300 | $300–$700 | 6–9 weeks total |
| Nigeria / West Africa | $2,400–$4,300 | Sometimes direct | 4–7 weeks |
| Jamaica / Caribbean | $800–$1,500 USD | Via US East Coast | 3–5 weeks |
| Australia | $3,500–$5,500 | $300–$700 | 7–11 weeks total |
Red Sea rerouting adds approximately 2 weeks to Europe and Middle East routes.
RoRo carrier liability is approximately $0.50/lb of vehicle weight — not vehicle value. On a $25,000 car, roughly $1,750 in carrier coverage. Comprehensive marine insurance (1.5–2.5% of declared value, minimum $200 CAD) covers the full value. Viamar recommends all-risk coverage on every international shipment.
Can I leave items in my car for RoRo shipping?
No. Maritime regulations prohibit personal belongings in a RoRo-shipped vehicle. The vehicle must be empty, fuel under a quarter tank. For shipping goods alongside the vehicle, container shipping allows packing inside the sealed container.
Is my vehicle insured during RoRo shipping?
Only at standard carrier liability (~$0.50/lb). Viamar provides comprehensive marine cargo insurance covering the full declared value. For any vehicle worth over $10,000, the insurance premium (~$400–$600) is worthwhile.
What if my car cannot drive before reaching the terminal?
RoRo vessels will not accept non-operable vehicles. Viamar can arrange container shipping instead, which uses crane loading. Contact us immediately if your vehicle’s condition changes.
Does Viamar handle the in-bond trucking to the US port?
Yes. Viamar coordinates the complete in-bond movement under CBSA customs seal. You receive a single all-in quote. The in-bond process means your vehicle is not imported into the US — it is in transit throughout.
