Shipping your car from the USA to Liverpool, England, is easier and more cost-effective with RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping. This specialized service is designed for wheeled vehicles, offering a simple, reliable, and budget-friendly way to transport cars, motorcycles, trucks, and more directly to the Port of Liverpool.
With All Transport Depot as your trusted partner, you gain access to years of experience in international logistics, smooth customs clearance, and a professional team that ensures your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
What is RORO Shipping and How Does It Work?
RORO, short for Roll-On/Roll-Off, is one of the most efficient ways to move vehicles overseas. Instead of loading vehicles inside containers, your car simply drives onto a specialized vessel and is securely strapped for the ocean journey.
When the ship docks at the Port of Liverpool, the vehicle drives off just as easily. This minimal handling reduces risks of damage and speeds up delivery compared to container shipping.
Key Benefits of RORO Shipping to the UK
Less handling reduces the chance of damage
Faster transit times compared to container shipping
Cost-effective for most vehicles
Why Ship Your Vehicle to Liverpool with RORO?
Faster and Safer Transportation
RORO eliminates cranes and heavy lifting, ensuring your car is driven and secured safely by trained staff. This straightforward process often results in quicker delivery times.
Excellent Value for Money
You avoid container rental costs, extra labor, and unnecessary fees. With fewer steps, RORO remains one of the most economical options for shipping vehicles to the UK.
Flexible for Different Vehicles
From standard passenger cars to motorcycles, SUVs, heavy machinery, and motorhomes—RORO vessels can accommodate nearly any wheeled vehicle.
How We Ship Your Car to Liverpool
Our shipping process is designed to be smooth and stress-free:
Drop-Off at a US Port – Deliver your vehicle to one of our departure ports.
Pre-Shipment Inspection – We document your car’s condition before loading.
Secure Loading – Trained crews drive and secure your vehicle onto the RORO vessel.
Arrival in Liverpool – Our UK agents assist with offloading and customs procedures.
Customs & Clearance – We guide you through HMRC, DVSA, and DVLA requirements.
Port of Liverpool: Your Vehicle’s Gateway to the UK
The Port of Liverpool is one of the UK’s busiest and most strategic entry points, located on the River Mersey. Its advanced facilities handle thousands of vehicles each year with direct access to the national road and rail network.
Advantages of Liverpool Port
State-of-the-art vehicle handling facilities
Smooth customs and clearance procedures
Easy access to Northern England and beyond
Documents Needed for RORO Shipping to Liverpool
To ensure a hassle-free process, prepare these documents in advance:
Bill of Lading (BOL)
Original Car Title / Certificate of Ownership
Bill of Sale or Commercial Invoice
Passport / ID copy
Proof of UK residency (if applying for ToR relief)
Transfer of Residence (ToR) forms if eligible
Vehicle Approval Certificate (IVA/MSVA or CoC)
NOVA declaration (must be submitted within 14 days)
Shipping Insurance (recommended for protection)
UK Customs and Vehicle Import Rules
Shipping a car into Liverpool requires compliance with HMRC (customs), DVSA (vehicle approval), and DVLA (registration) rules.
Import Duties & Taxes
Import Duty: Typically 10% of the car’s value (CIF).
VAT: Standard 20% (reduced to 5% for classic cars).
Transfer of Residence Relief: Exempts duty & VAT if you qualify.
VED (Road Tax): Payable annually after registration.
Vehicle Approval & Registration
IVA/MSVA Test: Required for most US imports.
NOVA Declaration: Must be filed with HMRC within 14 days.
DVLA Registration: Needed before your car can be legally driven in the UK.
RORO Shipping Costs to Liverpool
RORO shipping prices from the USA to Liverpool typically range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on vehicle size, port of departure, fuel surcharges, and exchange rates.
Additional Costs to Consider
USA and UK port fees
Customs broker fees
Vehicle modifications for IVA approval
DVLA registration fee (£55)
Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax)
Number plate production
Inland transport within the UK (if required)
Tip: Always request a detailed quote to avoid hidden charges.
RORO vs. Container Shipping
RORO Advantages
Lower cost (no container rental or stuffing fees)
Faster loading and unloading
Less handling reduces damage risks
Accommodates vehicles of all sizes
When Container May Be Better
For non-running vehicles
When shipping personal items inside the car
If maximum security is required
Tips for a Smooth RORO Shipment
Prepare Your Vehicle
Remove all personal belongings
Leave only ¼ tank of fuel
Fix any leaks before shipping
Clean the vehicle for inspection
Handle Documentation Early
Apply for ToR relief before shipping (if eligible)
Submit NOVA within 14 days
Keep digital and hard copies of all papers
Work with Professionals
Choose an experienced RORO shipping company
Consider a UK customs broker for faster clearance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does RORO mean?
It stands for Roll-On/Roll-Off—cars drive directly onto the ship.
Can I ship a non-running car with RORO?
Generally no; vehicles must be drivable. Otherwise, container shipping or towing may be required.
Is insurance included?
Insurance is optional but highly recommended for financial protection.
Can I leave personal items in the car?
No. Customs prohibits personal belongings in vehicles shipped via RORO.
Does RORO include door-to-door delivery?
RORO is port-to-port, but inland transport can be arranged at extra cost.
Contact UK Authorities for Import Questions
For official guidance on duties, VAT, or vehicle approval, contact:
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
Website: Importing vehicles into the UK
NOVA Online Service available
Helpline: +44 208 929 0152
Email (NOVA queries): ecsm.nchcars@hmrc.gov.uk
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.