Shipping vehicles from the United States to Chennai, India has gained popularity due to increasing demand for American luxury cars, SUVs, specialty vehicles, and heavy machinery. Chennai Port—India’s largest automobile-handling hub—serves as a primary gateway for vehicle imports into Tamil Nadu and surrounding regions. Among the most efficient and practical transport methods is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, known for its affordability, efficiency, and reduced handling risk. Whether you’re shipping a personal vehicle or exporting industrial equipment, RORO provides a reliable solution for individuals, dealers, and commercial buyers in India.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in global vehicle and machinery logistics, offering seamless, secure, and cost-effective RORO shipping from major U.S. ports directly to Chennai, India. With years of industry experience, competitive pricing, and consistent sailings, we make international vehicle shipping stress-free—earning trust from customers worldwide.
Why Choose RORO Shipping to Chennai, India?
RORO shipping is one of the most efficient ways to transport vehicles to India. Vehicles are driven directly onto the RORO vessel, securely fastened during transit, and driven off upon arrival—minimizing handling and reducing the risk of damage.
Key Advantages Include:
-
Cost-effective: Lower cost than container shipping in most cases
-
Fast loading & unloading: Reduced port delays
-
Lower risk of damage: No cranes or lifting equipment
-
Ideal for multiple vehicle types: Cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles
-
Excellent for heavy machinery: Excavators, tractors, loaders, forklifts
-
Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted at extra cost
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
RORO shipping to Chennai departs from several well-connected U.S. ports. The best port depends on your vehicle’s location, cost, and sailing frequency.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
-
Newark, New Jersey (EWR)
-
Baltimore, Maryland (BAL)
-
Savannah, Georgia (SAV)
-
Jacksonville, Florida (JAXPORT)
-
Galveston, Texas (GLS)
-
Freeport, Texas
-
Los Angeles / Long Beach – Ideal for West Coast vehicles
How to Choose the Best Port
-
Select the closest port to reduce inland transport costs
-
East Coast and Gulf ports typically offer faster India routes
-
Choose based on sailing schedules and overall pricing
-
Ask All Transport Depot about discounted port options
Indian Port That Accepts RORO Cargo
Chennai Port (Tamil Nadu)
Chennai Port is India’s premier automotive hub and one of the largest RORO ports in South Asia.
Why Chennai Port is Ideal:
-
Specialized vehicle handling terminals
-
Supports cars, SUVs, buses, trucks, and heavy equipment
-
Strong customs infrastructure
-
Easy inland access across South India
-
Ideal for both personal and commercial imports
All imports must comply with Indian Customs regulations, emissions standards, and road compliance laws.
Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO
RORO shipping supports a wide range of vehicles and rolling equipment.
Passenger Vehicles
-
Sedans
-
Coupes
-
SUVs
-
Crossovers
-
Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
-
Pickup trucks
-
Vans
-
Buses
-
Box trucks
-
Specialty commercial vehicles
Heavy Machinery
-
Bulldozers
-
Excavators
-
Tractor units
-
Wheel loaders
-
Forklifts
-
Agricultural machinery
Other Equipment
-
Motorcycles
-
Construction equipment
-
RVs and specialty vehicles
Non-Running Units
-
Accepted with advance notice
-
Additional handling charges apply
-
Earlier port delivery required
Cost of RORO Shipping to Chennai, India (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping costs depend on several variables.
Factors That Determine RORO Rates
-
Vehicle size and dimensions
-
Port of departure in the U.S.
-
Running vs. non-running condition
-
Weight and CBM for machinery
-
Seasonal demand
-
Documentation and terminal fees
Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)
(Exact pricing varies—contact All Transport Depot for live rates.)
-
Sedans: Most affordable option
-
SUVs: Slightly higher due to size
-
Pickup trucks: Priced by height and length
-
Heavy machinery: Charged per cubic meter (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to India
Proper documentation ensures smooth U.S. export and Indian customs clearance.
Required Documents
-
Original Vehicle Title
-
Bill of Sale
-
Passport copy
-
Export Power of Attorney (POA) – provided by All Transport Depot
-
Consignee name, address, and contact details in India
-
Bill of Lading
Additional documents may be required depending on vehicle type and import purpose.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Vehicle from USA to Chennai via RORO
All Transport Depot manages the entire process.
1. Request a Quote
Provide vehicle details and destination.
2. Deliver Vehicle to U.S. Port
Door-to-port or self-drop options available.
3. Port Inspection
Vehicle must be clean and empty.
4. U.S. Export Clearance
All export filings handled by All Transport Depot.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
Vehicle driven onboard and secured.
6. Ocean Transit
Fixed RORO schedules apply.
7. Arrival & Indian Customs Clearance
Your customs broker manages:
-
Import duty and GST
-
Inspection and compliance
-
Port and terminal fees
8. Vehicle Release
Vehicle collected from Chennai Port.
Transit Time from USA to Chennai, India
Transit times vary by route and port.
-
East Coast to Chennai: ~30–40 days
-
Gulf Coast to Chennai: ~32–45 days
-
West Coast to Chennai: ~25–35 days
RORO remains one of the most efficient shipping options to India.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to India
-
Ship from the nearest U.S. port
-
Avoid peak shipping seasons
-
Keep vehicles operational
-
Submit documents early
-
Use licensed providers like All Transport Depot
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping a Vehicle to India
-
Leaving personal items inside vehicles
-
Missing or incorrect paperwork
-
Importing non-compliant vehicles
-
Using unlicensed agents
-
Delaying customs clearance
-
Ignoring Indian regulations
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted name in U.S.-to-India vehicle shipping.
-
Licensed & bonded in the United States
-
Extensive experience with India-bound cargo
-
Reliable RORO sailings to Chennai
-
Competitive and transparent pricing
-
Door-to-port & port-to-port services
-
Dedicated customer support
-
Fast export documentation processing
Our mission is to make international shipping simple, transparent, and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed car to India?
Only with written approval from the lienholder.
• Does the vehicle have to be running?
Running vehicles are cheaper, but non-running units are allowed.
• Can I place personal items inside the vehicle?
No. RORO requires empty interiors.
• How long does customs clearance take in India?
Typically 5–10 business days depending on compliance.
• What is the cheapest way to ship a car to India?
RORO is usually the most cost-effective option.
✈️ Get a Free Quote Today
Ready to ship your vehicle by air? Here’s what we’ll need to get started:
📧 Email: ship@alltransportdepot.com
📲 WhatsApp: +1 (470) 791-4497
📞 Phone: +1 (678) 528-5794
At All TransportDepot Inc., we ensure premium service for safe, secure, and reliable car air shipping worldwide.
👉 Don’t wait—Get Your Free Quote Now
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.