# Lift-on/Lift-off (LoLo) cargo vessel operations

*Last updated: 2026-06-25*

> Unlike roll-on/roll-off (RoRo), where cargo boards a vessel under its own power, Lift-on/Lift-off (LoLo) moves all freight exclusively by vertical crane lift – onto the ship and back off again.

Unlike roll-on/roll-off (RoRo), where cargo boards a vessel under its own power, Lift-on/Lift-off (LoLo) moves all freight exclusively by vertical crane lift – onto the ship and back off again. The method applies to containerized cargo, breakbulk, heavy-lift, and project shipments wherever ramp access is unavailable or cargo cannot self-propel. Freight forwarders and ship planners must pre-arrange crane windows, spreaders or slings, and stevedoring crews, adding to port costs relative to RoRo. In return, LoLo permits flexible stowage positioning and remains the standard approach at conventional multipurpose terminals across the globe.

**Source:** [https://www.marineinsight.com/vessels/lolo-cargo-ship-definition-types-and-features](https://www.marineinsight.com/vessels/lolo-cargo-ship-definition-types-and-features)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Lift-on/Lift-off (LoLo) cargo vessel operations |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 91 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-25 |
| Source | https://www.marineinsight.com/vessels/lolo-cargo-ship-definition-types-and-features |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/lift-onlift-off-lolo-cargo-vessel-operations](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/lift-onlift-off-lolo-cargo-vessel-operations)*

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