Ro/Ro Vessels

Ro Ro: What is it?

Ro Ro is a common term in logistics. It means a specific method of transporting cargo. Also, it is a specific type of vessel used to transport it. This phrase is an abbreviation which stands for Roll-on/Roll-off. This concept describes the method of loading and unloading cargo.

These shipping vessels have one main area of application. They are most often used to transport vehicles. The design of such vessels has an “infrastructure” that allows cars and other vehicles to safely and quickly enter and exit the vessel – without any danger to the cargo. For example, we are talking about ramps and specially equipped doors. In general, the key to Ro Ro's popularity is its simplicity and reliability, which are confirmed by many years of successful use of this type of logistics in different parts of our planet.

Ro Ro Vessels: Features

Ro Ro vessels have a unique design and features. We have already mentioned the ramps and doors. No other type of vessel has such features. These options were added for a reason. Thanks to them, there is no need to use cranes and other specialized equipment designed for such purposes during loading and unloading.

Another distinctive feature is the presence of several decks. This means that during one trip, vessels can carry several types of vehicles that will not come into contact with each other during transportation. The decks that are present on the ship are adaptable. What does this mean? The ship's crew can set the desired deck height.

Why is Ro Ro so popular?

One of the significant advantages of Ro Ro shipping is speed. The point is that the loading and unloading process takes a minimum of time. Therefore, the ship does not need to stay in the port for very long, which reduces costs and allows companies to save both time and money.

Another advantage of Ro Ro vessels is simplicity. As mentioned above, neither the port nor the ship itself should have special unloading equipment.

Ro Ro as an important part of Global Shipping

If it were not for these ships, the process of transporting cars, trucks, etc. would be much more complicated and expensive. This, of course, would also be reflected in the final cost.

Ro Ro shipping is crucial in today's economy. It supports import and export activities. This type of logistics also helps reduce downtime at ports, positively influencing the capacity of global logistics as a whole.