# Ro/Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off)

*Last updated: 2026-06-22*

> A Ro/Ro vessel – Roll-on/Roll-off – is a cargo ship designed so that wheeled or tracked cargo drives aboard under its own power or by tow vehicle via a stern or side ramp, is lashed to the deck, and rolls off again at destination.

A Ro/Ro vessel – Roll-on/Roll-off – is a cargo ship designed so that wheeled or tracked cargo drives aboard under its own power or by tow vehicle via a stern or side ramp, is lashed to the deck, and rolls off again at destination. No cranes are required. This makes Ro/Ro the standard mode for new automobiles, trucks, agricultural machinery, and heavy construction equipment, where lift-on/lift-off handling is impractical or cost-prohibitive. Ports handling Ro/Ro traffic must provide dedicated ramp infrastructure, wide marshalling yards, and vehicle storage areas. Compared to container vessels, Ro/Ro ships offer faster turnaround and lower per-unit handling costs – but cargo must be self-propelled or towable, an essential point to confirm when booking.

**Source:** [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roll-on/roll-off](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roll-on/roll-off)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Ro/Ro (Roll-on/Roll-off) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 116 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-22 |
| Source | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roll-on/roll-off |

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