⚡ Quick Answer: How Does RoRo Shipping to Philippines from the USA Work?
For the Philippines, RoRo shipping from the USA may involve Manila or Batangas for Luzon cargo, while Cebu requires a separately confirmed service or island connection. Used passenger-car imports are generally restricted except for defined authorized cases. The importer should establish a lawful entry category and taxes before arranging vehicle pickup.
USA → PHILIPPINES RORO SHIPPING SERVICES
A vehicle needed in Cebu cannot automatically be delivered on the same maritime leg as a booking into Manila. All TransportDepot reviews carrier service and island transfers, coordinates U.S. export documentation and checks the vehicle’s loading condition. Philippine buyers should consult Customs and the Department of Trade and Industry on whether their used vehicle qualifies for an import exception or permit.
FMC Licensed & Bonded NVOCC #021693 • U.S. Vehicle Pickup • Asian Port Coordination
Which Vehicles & Equipment Can Ship by RoRo to Philippines?
New Vehicles
Brand-new cars and trucks can be imported, subject to normal duties and taxes.
Used Vehicles Need a CAI
Used motor vehicle imports are generally prohibited under Executive Order 156. Qualifying exceptions need a Certificate of Authority to Import (CAI) before the vehicle ships.
No Right-Hand Drive
Republic Act 8506 bars right-hand-drive vehicles, so U.S. left-hand-drive vehicles are the only option.
Philippines RoRo Ports & Receiving Arrangements
Manila / Batangas / Cebu subject to authorized entry and carrier
Manila and Batangas serve Luzon, while Cebu is a major Visayas cargo center. The booked RoRo line must confirm the specific discharge facility and any onward island leg.
Inland & Alternative Delivery
Davao, Iloilo and smaller Philippine islands require separate inter-island shipping or trucking and terminal clearance.
Port references are routing candidates, not proof of a current RoRo sailing. Verify the vessel and receiving agent before dispatch.
RoRo Shipping Cost & Transit Planning to Philippines
RoRo freight to the Philippines is quoted per vehicle or machine, usually with a connection at an Asian hub. Many vehicle shipments plan around 4–7 weeks overall.
| Philippine port | Serves | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| Manila | Metro Manila and Luzon | Main national gateway |
| Batangas | South Luzon | Important RoRo and vehicle port |
| Subic Bay | Freeport zone | Used for selected vehicle and machinery programmes |
For car shipping planning ranges, see our car shipping to the Philippines guide. Philippine duty, excise tax, VAT and port charges are additional.
Philippines Import Requirements, Customs & Vehicle Taxes
The Philippines generally restricts importing used motor vehicles, with exceptions requiring eligibility or authorization under applicable regulations. Verify duties, VAT/excise, DTI requirements, emissions, local registration and island delivery.
Eligibility
- Used vehicles: generally prohibited without a CAI
- CAI issued by the Department of Trade and Industry before importation
- Left-hand drive only (RA 8506)
- Heavy equipment: confirm the HS code and any permits
Bureau of Customs Charges
- Import duty by HS classification
- Ad valorem excise tax on cars, tiered by price
- 12% VAT on the landed value
- Broker, arrastre and port storage charges
Documents Commonly Needed for Philippines RoRo Shipping
U.S. Export & Booking
- Original vehicle title or accepted ownership documents; lien release if needed
- Purchase invoice or bill of sale, shipper ID and consignee information
- VIN or serial number, dimensions, photos and operating condition
- Applicable AES/EEI filing and ITN, plus terminal delivery order
- Carrier booking and ocean Bill of Lading
Philippine Arrival & Clearance
- Bill of Lading and commercial invoice
- CAI for qualifying used vehicles
- Title and U.S. export documents
- Import entry lodged by a licensed customs broker
- Duty, excise and VAT payment before release
How Our RoRo Shipping Service to Philippines Works
1. Confirm Eligibility
New vehicle, or used vehicle with a CAI.
2. Choose the Port
Manila, Batangas or Subic, based on the carrier and your location.
3. Collect in the USA
Pickup to the departure terminal.
4. Title & AES
Export documents filed before the cutoff.
5. Transpacific Sailing
Usually with an Asian hub connection.
6. Clear with the Bureau of Customs
Taxes paid and the vehicle released to you.
RoRo vs Container Shipping to Philippines
Choose RoRo
For safely operable cars, trucks and rolling machinery where the carrier and receiving port have an approved vehicle-handling service.
Consider Container or Special Cargo
For non-running or damaged units, approved additional goods, oversized components or routes without a viable vehicle-deck service.
Frequently Asked Questions About RoRo Shipping to Philippines
Which port handles RoRo cargo to Philippines?
We initially assess Manila / Batangas / Cebu subject to authorized entry and carrier. The actual terminal and accepted carrier service must be confirmed for the specific booking.
How much does RoRo shipping to Philippines cost?
Freight depends on the vehicle size, U.S. port and Philippine port. Excise tax and 12% VAT on arrival often cost more than the ocean freight.
Can I import a used car into the Philippines?
Used vehicles are generally prohibited under Executive Order 156. Qualifying exceptions need a Certificate of Authority to Import before shipment.
Which Philippine port should I ship to?
Manila serves Metro Manila and Luzon, Batangas is a major RoRo port south of Manila, and Subic Bay serves selected programmes. The carrier booking confirms the port.
Can I ship a right-hand-drive car to the Philippines?
No. Republic Act 8506 bans right-hand-drive vehicles.
What import taxes apply in Philippines?
Expect import duty, ad valorem excise tax tiered by price, and 12% VAT, all calculated by the Bureau of Customs.
Can I put personal effects in the car?
Not on RoRo. Use a container if you need to send belongings with the vehicle.
How long does shipping to the Philippines take?
Many vehicle shipments plan around 4–7 weeks from U.S. pickup to arrival.
Request a Philippines RoRo Shipping Quote
Send your cargo details, pickup ZIP, destination port, dimensions and running condition for a current route assessment and freight quote.
Ruth Kendi serves as International Logistics Coordinator with All TransportDepot Inc., an FMC-licensed and bonded NVOCC (License No. 021693). She supports commercial machinery, RoRo, container shipping, export coordination, port planning, and destination logistics, helping organize the documentation, carrier requirements, cargo specifications, and delivery details involved in international shipments. All TransportDepot Inc. provides ocean freight and export logistics services from the United States to destinations worldwide.