RoRo and LoLo cargo: which ocean method to use
RoRo cargo rolls on and off the vessel on its own wheels or on mafi trailers; LoLo cargo is lifted on and off by crane into a hold, on deck or on a flat rack. Total Connection books both for machinery, rig components and vehicles as a licensed NVOCC, choosing the method from the piece, the lane and the terminal equipment.
How RoRo and LoLo differ
RoRo, roll-on roll-off
Wheeled and tracked equipment drives aboard; static pieces ride on mafi trailers. Fast turnaround, low handling risk, and the cargo stays on its own chassis or a trailer through the voyage.
LoLo, lift-on lift-off
Cranes lift each piece aboard, either into a breakbulk hold, onto deck or onto a flat rack on a container vessel. Serves lanes without RoRo service and pieces too heavy or awkward to roll.
Choosing the method
- Wheeled or tracked equipment on a lane with RoRo service: RoRo, usually lower handling cost and risk
- Static heavy pieces such as rig substructures and vessels: LoRo on mafi where RoRo sails, otherwise breakbulk LoLo
- Lanes served only by container vessels: flat rack LoLo
- Very heavy single pieces: breakbulk LoLo with heavy lift gear
How we book either
Dimensions, weight, lift points and lane are confirmed, then the vessel and method are selected. Lashing and securing are planned to the carrier's standard and certified by marine survey, and the heavy haul, terminal handling and destination legs are run by the same project team. Rig PR-14 moved as 68 breakbulk packages aboard M/V Industrial Courage; Australian rig components moved on flat rack and mafi.
RoRo and LoLo FAQ
Which is cheaper, RoRo or LoLo?
RoRo is usually cheaper for wheeled equipment because it avoids crane handling. For static heavy pieces LoLo breakbulk or flat rack is often the only option, and price depends on the lane.
What is a mafi trailer?
A low roll trailer used to move static cargo on and off RoRo vessels. Rig components and plant modules often ride on mafi trailers.
Can hazmat move RoRo?
Some dangerous goods are accepted on RoRo vessels subject to the carrier's IMDG rules; fuel and batteries in vehicles have their own requirements.
Do you handle both ends of the move?
Yes. Heavy haul to the port, terminal handling, ocean booking, marine survey, customs and delivery at destination are managed by one team.
Quote a RoRo or LoLo shipment
Send the product, origin, destination and timing. 732-817-0401 or quotes@totalconnection.com.
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