In international freight transportation, understanding vehicle dimensions and loading restrictions is crucial to ensuring smooth operations. This guide provides detailed information on vehicle shipping, particularly focusing on roll-on/roll-off (ro-ro) vessel requirements and fee structures. Based on actual vessel conditions, loading restrictions can be broadly categorized as follows:
1. Vehicle Specifications and Loading Restrictions
Depending on a vessel's dynamic load capacity, strict regulations apply to vehicle size and weight. These include:
- Vehicles with a dynamic weight under 100 tons (non-powered vehicles under 70 tons), subject to the vessel's stern load capacity.
- Vehicles with a dynamic weight under 75 tons (non-powered vehicles under 65 tons), also subject to stern load verification.
Appearance and dimension requirements:
- Length ≤ 23 meters, height ≤ 6.5 meters, width ≤ 5.5 meters.
- Length ≤ 18 meters, height ≤ 5 meters, width ≤ 5.5 meters (subject to the vessel's hatch dimensions).
2. Fee Structure
- Booking Fee: Ocean freight is categorized by vehicle height (high-tier and low-tier), with a typical price difference of approximately $10. Final rates must be confirmed with the vessel operator.
- Port Fees: Variable charges apply, including additional costs if containers cannot be opened automatically.
- Tow Truck Fees: Non-operational vehicles require towing into the vessel, incurring extra fees. Additional charges apply for lifting and securing the vehicle. Note that tow truck rentals and securing services are billed separately.
3. Key Considerations for Vehicle Transportation
To ensure safety and functionality during transit, clients must adhere to the following:
- Fuel: Vehicles must have sufficient fuel to operate for 50 km upon arrival. In cold northern winters, use appropriate low-temperature diesel (e.g., -20°C or -30°C) to prevent waxing.
- Condition: Ensure brakes and batteries are fully functional. Vehicles must be clean and undamaged before delivery to the port. Remove side mirrors and apply protective coatings to rust-prone areas like the chassis.
- Maintenance: Conduct pre-shipment inspections and arrange for professional guidance. The carrier is not liable for defects or delays caused by the vehicle's condition.
- Documentation: Accurate and timely dynamic data must be recorded. Windshields must display attached labels, and all spare parts require shipping tags.
- Dimensions: Provide exact measurements (length, width, height). Misreported dimensions may result in adjusted fees, with clients bearing any additional costs.
- Loading Coordination: Clients must confirm arrangements with the carrier's agent.
- Accessories: Lock all accessory packs and clearly label keys. No loose parts are permitted unless pre-approved in writing.
- Vehicle Information: Submit accurate details (VIN, chassis/engine numbers) for bill of lading verification.
