Rolling cargo makes it possible for businesses and travelers to ship a diverse range of wheeled freight, like vehicles. RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) vessels allow families to bring their own van for inter-island travel, and enable businesses to haul their own cargo truck on board. Services such as rolling shipping containers are also extremely worthwhile for players in the automotive industry, who make use of freighters to move large shipments of vehicles.
This article breaks down what is rolling cargo, the types of freight allowed, and how your wheeled cargo is secured for a risk-free journey.
The Essential Aspects and Impact of Rolling Cargo in the Philippines
What is Rolling Cargo?
It refers to various wheeled freight, encompassing motorcycles, cars, trucks, buses, industrial machinery, and trailers that can be driven directly onto a ship, a method better known as “ro-ro” or roll-on/roll-off. RoRo vessels are typically equipped with stern and internal ramps, which allow vehicles to drive into the cargo deck.
In logistics operations, rolling cargo is not always driven into a ship. Unaccompanied vehicles and heavy equipment can also be transported inside a rolling shipping container, where proper lashing methods are done to secure them in place.
5 Different Types of Rolling Cargo
1. Motorcycles
Motorcycles and big bikes are the smallest units. RoRo vessels have become a reliable option for travelers who wish to use their motorcycle immediately after arrival, as well as for bulk shipments by dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers.
2. Cars and Vans
Private car owners can transport their vehicles, such as hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, minivans, and more. This makes it easy for individuals to travel and relocate. Vehicle transportation via rolling shipping containers presents important commercial benefits, especially for international and domestic dealerships or manufacturers, who require frequent inventory movement.
3. Commercial Vehicles
Buses and trucks make up a large portion of rolling cargo in the Philippines. It enables intermodal transport for both passengers and commercial cargo, especially to major ports in different provinces.
Most shipping companies accept a variety of trucks, such as 4-wheelers, 6-wheelers, and 10-wheeler trucks. Prime movers can also be hauled via RoRo vessel, whether accompanied by a trailer or container van. This is especially beneficial for various industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, food and beverage, pharmaceutics, and retail.
4. Industrial Machinery
Heavy equipment is critical to completing construction projects in different parts of the Philippines. The construction industry faces the challenge of transporting such large, often bulky equipment across the waters. Fortunately, shipping companies make it easy to move wheeled machinery like bulldozers, backhoes, cranes, and mixers.
5. Trailers
Wheeled trailers can be shipped via RoRo vessels, either with a tractor or as unaccompanied cargo. In the latter situation, a trailer may be loaded onto the ship by the sender, and upon arrival at the destination port, is unloaded by the recipient using their own tractor. This facilitates cost-efficient transportation and maximized use of resources for both parties.
Securing Methods of Rolling Cargo
Lashing
This method uses chains, ropes, or straps at vertical angles to secure cargo into place, ideally to the deck or close to the side of the ship. Lashing equipment is usually kept short for easy management and to ensure its strength and tautness.
Locking
A primary securing method that is applied to unaccompanied wheeled trailers. Twistlocks or built-in locking devices on trailers are connected to the deck and mechanically fastened, restricting any potential movement.
Dunnage
It is critical to fill in gaps or voids between cargo, especially those that are irregularly shaped (e.g. heavy machinery). Dunnage is an important material used to fill these spaces to prevent damage and movement during transport. It is commonly made of wood, plastic, and metal. It supports lashing and locking by cushioning wheeled cargo, providing extra security to each unit.
Chocking
Chocks are blocks or wedges placed behind or under the wheels to prevent movement in any direction. It supports lashing and locking by further fixing the vehicle in place on the deck. Heavy-duty chocks are designed with wood and rubber, which increases friction between the wheel and deck.
Business Advantages of Rolling Cargo in the Philippines
Efficient and Versatile Cargo Shipment
As illustrated earlier, sea freight shipping services accept a broad selection of wheeled cargo, which makes it a flexible choice for various personal and commercial vehicle transport. The use of rolling shipping containers also creates an opportunity to combine different types of freight in one voyage.
Business expansion opportunities
Large-scale domestic shipping lines regularly ply common routes in the country, providing a chance for business expansion. For example, services that offer rolling cargo from Manila to Cebu make use of containerized freighter vessels for the commercial transport of vehicles. This service is key to building a strong network between major automobile dealerships and diverse industries.
Minimized Logistics Costs
The straightforward nature of rolling cargo simplifies the logistics process, which simultaneously lowers expenses used for complex packaging, containerization, and handling. Additionally, it is a budget-friendly choice for transporting large, bulky industrial equipment, eliminating the need for more expensive, specialized cargo handling methods.
Optimized Loading and Delivery
The ability to roll vehicles on and off the vessel means a more streamlined delivery process. This cuts down the time needed to load and unload each cargo, effectively maintaining a continuous flow of the supply chain, achieving timely shipments, and enhancing customer trust.
Specialized Vehicle Safety and Security
Shipping companies in the Philippines regularly train staff and crew on advanced techniques in stowing and securing wheeled cargo. Using various methods such as lashing, locking, and dunnage, they can guarantee excellent cargo condition until it reaches its destination.
Common Challenges for Rolling Cargo Transport
1. Lack of specialized equipment.
RoRo vessels are fitted with various mobility and security features; however, smaller ports may not have sufficient areas or equipment to load and unload vehicles. Domestic shipping companies provide a workaround by providing shipping to the closest portlinks, as well as partnering with local land transport services.
2. Potential risk of damage and theft.
Unlike weatherproof, containerized cargo, rolling cargo is susceptible to potential hazards. The rough movement of the sea can result in damage if a vehicle is not secured properly. It is also exposed to the risk of theft, especially if a ship has poor security in the cargo hold.
3. Limitations for special and extremely oversized freight.
While rolling freight can be versatile, shipping companies still place limits on the types of freight that can be transported through this method. It is recommended that out-of-gauge (OOG) and special/project cargo be transported using a separate type of method, which ensures that the right equipment and handling methods are used.
The versatile applications of rolling cargo in the Philippines make for a seamless logistics process, supporting sea transport in an archipelagic country. This service links major travel and economic hubs across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, fostering efficient maritime trade for several industries.
ALSO READ: The Benefits of RoRo Shipping for Businesses in the Philippines
Let Trans-Asia Shipping Lines be your go-to partner when shipping rolling cargo from Manila to Cebu, and vice versa. Our Manila freighter service accepts vehicles in 20ft containers, enhancing the security and safety of each unit. We also cater shipments from Manila to Cagayan de Oro, Davao, General Santos, and Zamboanga. Finally, Trans-Asia’s RoRo vessels make regular trips to various destinations across Visayas and Mindanao.
View our Manila freighter schedules here and inquire with us today.
