🚗 Roll-On, Roll-Off vs Container Shipping

Choosing the right shipping method for your vehicle

When moving your vehicle from Australia to New Zealand, there are two primary shipping methods: Roll-On, Roll-Off (RoRo) and Container Shipping. Each has its own advantages depending on your vehicle type, personal circumstances, and budget.

This guide will help you understand the key differences so you can make the right choice for your move.

🚗 What is Roll-On, Roll-Off (RoRo) Shipping?

RoRo shipping involves driving your vehicle directly onto a specialised vessel, where it's safely parked, lashed, and protected for the journey. It’s often compared to a floating carpark.

✅ Key Benefits:

• Generally the cheapest option
• Fast loading and unloading
• Frequent departures and availability
• Designed for running/drivable vehicles
• Vehicles are not exposed to weather — they remain within the ship’s enclosed decks

⚠️ Considerations:

• You cannot load personal items inside the vehicle
• Vehicle must be clean, drivable, and empty
• Minor cosmetic wear (dust from port environments) is possible due to external handling
• Availability may vary slightly based on port and shipping line

📦 What is Container Shipping?

With Container shipping, your vehicle is loaded inside a 20ft or 40ft sealed container. This offers the ability to load additional personal belongings either inside or around the vehicle (if space permits).

✅ Key Benefits:

• Allows you to load personal effects inside the car
• Greater protection from external handling
• Ideal if you're relocating with household items
• Available from all major Australian ports

⚠️ Considerations:

• More expensive than RoRo
• Slightly longer preparation times due to packing and unpacking
• Some ports or vessel schedules may have longer wait times for container bookings

🛳️ Which Method is Best for You?

📸 Visual Comparison

Roll on, Roll off:

20ft and 40ft Container:

🧳 Space in a 20ft Container

If you’re using a 20ft container, there is usually a small amount of space around the vehicle that can be used for personal items. However, it’s important to note that space is limited, especially if you have a larger vehicle.

In most cases:

• You’ll be able to fit 2–3m³ of cargo behind the vehicle
• This is typically enough for items like a washing machine, a few boxes, or small appliances
• Most of your personal items will need to be loaded inside the vehicle itself — the boot, back seat, and footwells

If you're planning to move a lot of cargo, it’s important to pack strategically and be realistic about how much will fit.

Still Not Sure?

We're happy to help you choose the best shipping method for your needs. Just let us know your situation, and we can provide tailored advice and pricing for both options.

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