RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping from the United States to Guatemala is one of the most reliable and cost-effective methods for transporting vehicles and heavy equipment overseas. Widely chosen by individuals, businesses, and industries, this service makes it easy to move cars, trucks, buses, boats, and machinery quickly and efficiently.
At All Transport Depot, we offer reliable and professional RORO shipping services designed to meet the specific needs of clients moving vehicles from the U.S. to Guatemala. With extensive experience in international auto shipping, we guarantee streamlined operations, transparent pricing, and a hassle-free customer experience. Whether you’re a car dealer, a construction company, or a private owner, we ensure your shipment is handled with the highest level of care from departure to arrival.
What is RORO Shipping?
RORO shipping refers to the process of transporting wheeled cargo by driving it directly onto specialized vessels designed for this purpose. These vessels are equipped with built-in ramps that allow cars, trucks, trailers, and machinery to roll on at the port of departure and roll off at the port of arrival.
Unlike container shipping, RORO eliminates the need for cranes and complicated loading procedures. This makes it faster, safer, and more affordable for most vehicle types, from compact cars to oversized equipment.
Benefits of RORO Shipping
RORO shipping is one of the most widely chosen options worldwide because of its many advantages:
Lower Costs – Avoids container fees and reduces handling expenses.
Speed and Efficiency – Loading and unloading are quick and straightforward.
Reduced Risk of Damage – Vehicles stay on their wheels, minimizing lifting-related risks.
Global Reach – RORO connects U.S. ports with international destinations, including Guatemala.
RORO Shipping Process
The RORO process is simple, but it follows strict safety standards to ensure reliability at every stage.
Pre-Departure Preparation – Vehicle inspection, documentation, and customs clearance.
Loading at U.S. Port – Vehicles are driven onto the vessel and secured with tie-downs.
Ocean Transit – Specialized RORO carriers transport cargo safely across the sea.
Arrival at Guatemalan Port – Vehicles are rolled off and moved through customs for final clearance.
RORO Shipping Destinations
RORO connects the U.S. with international markets across the globe, including Central and South America. For Guatemala, services primarily operate from major U.S. ports with strong links to the Caribbean and Latin America.
Global RORO shipping terminals support international operations.
U.S. ports act as departure hubs for vehicles heading south to Guatemala.
Dedicated infrastructure ensures safe handling of cars, trucks, and heavy machinery.
Why Choose All Transport Depot for RORO Shipping to Guatemala?
Fast and Reliable Shipping Services
At All Transport Depot, we prioritize on-time delivery and efficient logistics. Our partnerships with top carriers and access to key U.S. ports allow us to maintain fast turnaround times.
Optimized shipping schedules reduce delays.
Experienced logistics professionals handle every stage.
Tracking systems provide updates throughout the journey.
Competitive Pricing and Transparent Quotes
We believe shipping to Guatemala should be affordable without compromising quality. Our cost structure is straightforward, with no hidden fees.
Upfront estimates tailored to your cargo.
Flexible plans for individuals and businesses.
Affordable options for single vehicles or fleet shipments.
Secure and Safe Transportation
We use industry-standard procedures to safeguard your cargo during transit. Vehicles are driven carefully, secured with straps and wheel chocks, and monitored until delivery.
Professional loading and unloading at both ports.
Insurance options to cover your shipment.
Secure onboard stowage for added protection.
What Can You Ship via RORO?
Automobiles
Shipping cars to Guatemala is one of the most common uses of RORO shipping. Whether you’re moving a personal car or exporting for sale, this method is both reliable and cost-effective.
Passenger vehicles
SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks
Luxury and collector cars
Heavy Machinery
RORO is particularly useful for industries that require moving large equipment. These include construction companies, agricultural operations, and industrial businesses.
Bulldozers, excavators, and loaders
Cranes and forklifts
Tractors and farming equipment
Boats and Yachts
RORO ships are designed to handle not just land-based vehicles but also watercraft.
Sailboats
Speedboats and jet skis
Small to mid-size yachts
How RORO Shipping Works with All Transport Depot
Efficient Loading and Unloading
Instead of relying on cranes or dismantling equipment, your vehicle simply drives onto the vessel, is secured, and then rolled off at its destination.
Reduced risk of damage
Faster loading compared to containerized methods
Simplified logistics
Seamless Integration with Trucking Services
We combine inland trucking with port operations, ensuring a smooth transition from your location to the port.
Pickup and delivery options within the U.S.
Door-to-port services for convenience
Reduced delays through coordinated logistics
Customized Shipping Solutions
Every shipment is unique. That’s why we create tailored shipping solutions to match your timeline and cargo type.
Flexible schedules and routes
Options for oversized or unusual cargo
Support for single shipments and recurring business exports
U.S. Departure Ports for RORO Shipping
Baltimore
A top East Coast facility offering modern RORO terminals, excellent rail and road links, and a reputation for fast processing.
Los Angeles
The largest U.S. port, located on the West Coast, and ideal for serving Pacific routes and Latin American markets.
Galveston
Strategically positioned on the Gulf Coast, offering direct connections to Central America and the Caribbean, including Guatemala.
Guatemala Arrival Ports
La Aurora International Airport
Located in Guatemala City, it serves as a major hub for air cargo with customs services, bonded warehouses, and duty-free facilities.
Santo Tomas de Castilla
Guatemala’s main Caribbean seaport, well-equipped to handle vehicles and heavy equipment with specialized RORO facilities.
Required Documents for RORO Shipping
To ship a vehicle from the U.S. to Guatemala, the following documents are typically required:
Original Bill of Lading
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Import License (if applicable)
Insurance Certificate
Export Declaration
Customs & Clearance in Guatemala
Customs Regulations
Guatemala has specific import requirements, including tariffs, taxes, and restrictions on certain vehicles. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for smooth clearance.
Clearance Process
Submission of all required paperwork
Vehicle inspection at the port of entry
Payment of duties and taxes
Release authorization for pickup or delivery
Customs Brokers
Working with a licensed customs broker is highly recommended to avoid delays and ensure all paperwork is filed correctly.
RORO Shipping Costs to Guatemala
Port Charges
These include handling, storage, and terminal fees charged by both U.S. and Guatemalan ports.
Shipping Distance
Longer routes with higher fuel costs can impact total shipping expenses.
Customs Duties and Taxes
Guatemala applies import duties, VAT, and other clearance fees that vary depending on vehicle type, age, and value.
Why RORO is Better Than Container Shipping
Faster Loading and Unloading
RORO eliminates the need for cranes and container preparation, reducing handling time.
Cost-Effective Solution
Without container costs, RORO is often the cheapest option for single vehicles.
Flexibility and Versatility
RORO vessels transport multiple vehicle types, making them suitable for a wide range of cargo.
Tips for Smooth RORO Shipping
Proper Documentation
Make sure all documents are accurate and ready before shipping to avoid clearance delays.
Vehicle Preparation
Before you ship your vehicle, you must clean it, remove all personal items, check for any leaks, and ensure the battery has a full charge.
Choosing the Right Shipping Company
Work with a trusted company like All Transport Depot for expertise, customer support, and reliable services.
Frequently Asked Questions for RORO Shipping
What is RORO Shipping? It is a method where vehicles roll on and off specialized vessels.
How does it work? Vehicles are driven onto the vessel, secured, and driven off at arrival.
What can be shipped? Cars, trucks, buses, heavy machinery, and boats.
What are the benefits? Lower costs, faster transit, and safer handling.
Are there restrictions? Some oversized vehicles may need special arrangements.
How are vehicles secured? With straps, wheel chocks, and tie-downs.
Can shipments be tracked? Yes, tracking services are available with updates.
How to Contact Guatemala Customs
For more information or assistance with customs procedures, you can contact the Guatemalan customs office directly:
Custom Office in Guatemala
Email: customoffice@guatemala.com
Phone: +502 1234 5678
Address: 123 Main Street, Guatemala City
Website: www.customofficeguatemala.com
Ryan is an experienced truck driver at Lone Star Auto Transport. He’s logged thousands of miles, safely delivering vehicles across the vast expanse of Texas and beyond. His commitment to on-time deliveries and vehicle care is unmatched.