Guide

RoRo vs Container Shipping: Sourcing Surcharges

Compare transit times, safety levels, terminal charges, dangerous goods surcharges for EV batteries, and when to use each method.

Shipping 2026-06-12

RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) Shipping

RoRo shipping is the most cost-effective method for drivable used cars. Vehicles are driven directly onto a specialized vessel and parked in secure interior decks, similar to a multi-story parking garage. It is ideal for single-vehicle orders on popular routes (e.g., Shanghai to Mombasa or Jebel Ali) and offers high loading speeds.

Container Shipping & Multi-Car Lashing

Container shipping places vehicles in standard 20ft (1 vehicle) or 40ft (up to 4 vehicles) steel containers. It provides complete protection from sea spray, dust, and security risks. For dealers buying in batches, container shipping is highly cost-effective per car if the loading team professionally lashes and nests the vehicles together.

EV Battery Surcharges & Dangerous Goods

Due to containing lithium batteries, electric vehicles are classified as Class 9 Dangerous Goods (UN 3171). Shipping lines require the manufacturer's UN 38.3 test report and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Consequently, shipping lines apply a dangerous goods surcharge of $150 to $300 per EV, which must be factored into your CIF calculation.

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