A Guide to the Boats We Ship in and How They Work

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A Guide to the Boats We Ship in and How They Work

Posted on September 1, 2015 – Shipping Vehicles

Whether you’re shipping a car, motorhome, caravan, boat or bike to or from Australia, the UK, the US or Japan, there are some things which remain constant – the ships.

At McCullough, we’ve transported everything from excavators from the UK to Maori carvings to China, so when it comes to understanding the right methods to import and export cargo, and the best types of boats to use, we’re experts with more than 20 years behind us.

First, though, it’s important to know that we are also skilled at arranging and executing air freight too – even difficult cargo like customised or new vehicles.

But if you are more interested in (and have the budget for) shipping, then there’s a few terms you should probably understand. Because we’re not affiliated with a single shipping line, we can always find you the best option and best price to move your cargo – here are answers to some key questions.

What are the main methods of transporting vehicles?
There are two basic methods – Lift-on-lift-off (LOLO) which entails the vehicle is shipped in a container and is handled with specialised shipping container equipment; and Roll-on-roll-off (RORO) which means the vehicle is driven on and off without being packed. It may be cheaper to use RORO for shipping, but LOLO allows greater protection, a choice of more international ports, the ability to ship cargo in the vehicle, and greater cost-effectiveness if you need to ship a container-load of cargo as well as your vehicle.

How do motorbikes differ when they’re transported?
Motorbikes or mopeds can be shipped loose in a container or placed on a pallet on a RORO boat, but most are packed in crates for shipping to ensure greater protection. If you are arranging for your motorbike to be shipped in a wooden crate, the crate must conform to MAF regulations for treatment (the timber must be approved ISPM15) and carry a packing declaration filled out at origin.

When do the boats sail?
We keep track of all relevant vessel arrivals and departures and can keep you up-to-date with any changes and the regular schedule through a weekly email.

For more information about how we can help you import a vehicle or other freight email info@mmnz.biz, or phone us on +64 9 303 0075. If you want a quote to have us help you bring a vehicle to New Zealand, fill out this form and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

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