How to Ship Cars Overseas? 3 Main Vessel Types Compared (Choose Wrong & Pay 50% More!)

1. Ro-Ro Ships: The "VIP Service" for Vehicles

Definition:

• Floating parking garages—cars drive directly into multi-level decks via ramps (no cranes needed).

• Capacity: 2,000–9,000 CEU (e.g., BYD’s Shenzhen can carry **7,000 vehicles*).

✅ Pros:

• Fast loading (4–6 hours for full vessel)

• Low damage rate (0.3%)

• Flexible scheduling (arrive 1–2 days before departure)

❌ Cons:

• 50% costlier than breakbulk (e.g., +$2,000/car to West Africa)

Best for: EVs, commercial vehicles, buses, and construction machinery.

2. Container Ships: Budget-Friendly but Tricky

Definition:

• Cars packed into 40’HQ containers (side mirrors/seats may need disassembly).

• High route frequency (e.g., Shanghai→Hamburg: daily sailings).

✅ Pros:

• 30–40% cheaper than Ro-Ro

• Mixed cargo allowed (e.g., spare parts + vehicles)

❌ Cons:

• Higher damage risk (2%)

• Strict deadlines (arrive 4 days pre-departure)

Best for: Compact cars (e.g., Wuling Hongguang), light trucks, and auto parts.

3. Breakbulk Carriers: Only Option for Oversized Loads

Definition:

• Heavy-lift cranes load non-containerizable vehicles onto open decks.

• Irregular schedules (~1–2 weekly sailings).

✅ Pros:

• 50%+ cost savings vs. Ro-Ro

• Fits 8m+ mega-machines (mining trucks, excavators)

❌ Cons:

• High damage risk (5%)

• Slowest transit (+10–15 days vs. Ro-Ro)

Best for: Oversized mining/construction equipment.

30-Second Decision Guide