Shipping vehicles from the United States to Puerto Barrios, Guatemala has become increasingly common due to strong demand for American cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and heavy equipment. One of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to transport these units is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, a method known for its simplicity, speed, and reliability. Whether you are shipping a personal vehicle or exporting commercial machinery, RORO provides a dependable solution for individuals, dealers, and businesses in Guatemala.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, offering safe, affordable, and streamlined RORO shipping services from major U.S. ports directly to Puerto Barrios. With extensive experience, competitive pricing, and regular sailings, we make shipping vehicles to Guatemala simple and stress-free.
Why Choose RORO Shipping to Puerto Barrios, Guatemala?
RORO shipping is one of the most practical and widely used methods for transporting vehicles to Guatemala. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel, securely fastened during transit, and driven off at arrival.
Key advantages include:
-
Cost-effective: More affordable than container shipping
-
Fast loading & unloading: Reduced handling time
-
Lower risk of damage: No cranes or container lifting
-
Ideal for all vehicle types: Cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles
-
Perfect for heavy equipment: Excavators, tractors, loaders, forklifts
-
Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted with extra charges
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
RORO shipments to Puerto Barrios depart from several major U.S. export ports. The best port depends on vehicle location, shipping schedule, and total cost.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
-
Newark, New Jersey
-
Baltimore, Maryland
-
Savannah, Georgia
-
Jacksonville, Florida
-
Galveston, Texas
-
Freeport, Texas
-
Los Angeles / Long Beach – Ideal for West Coast shipments
How to Choose the Best Port
-
Choose the nearest port to reduce inland transport costs
-
East Coast and Gulf ports often offer faster routes to Guatemala
-
Compare sailing schedules and pricing
-
Ask All Transport Depot about discounted port rates
Puerto Barrios Port – Guatemala’s Main RORO Gateway
Puerto Barrios is one of Guatemala’s primary Caribbean ports and a key gateway for vehicle and machinery imports. The port is well-equipped to handle RORO cargo efficiently and securely.
Puerto Barrios port features:
-
Handles personal and commercial vehicle imports
-
Efficient customs inspection and clearance
-
Suitable for cars, trucks, SUVs, buses, and heavy machinery
-
Convenient access to inland destinations across Guatemala
All shipments must comply with Guatemalan import regulations and customs requirements.
Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO
RORO shipping supports a wide range of vehicles and equipment, making it suitable for both individual and commercial shipments.
Passenger Vehicles
-
Sedans
-
Hatchbacks
-
SUVs
-
Crossovers
-
Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
-
Pickup trucks
-
Cargo vans
-
Buses
-
Box trucks
-
Flatbed trucks
Heavy Machinery
-
Excavators
-
Bulldozers
-
Tractors
-
Wheel loaders
-
Forklifts
-
Agricultural equipment
Other Equipment
-
Motorcycles
-
Boats & jet skis
-
RVs and campers
Non-Running Units
-
Accepted with forklift assistance
-
Additional handling fees apply
-
Early port delivery required
Cost of RORO Shipping to Puerto Barrios (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping costs depend on multiple factors. While rates vary with fuel prices and vessel availability, the following outlines what impacts pricing.
Factors That Affect RORO Rates
-
Vehicle size and type
-
Port of departure
-
Running vs. non-running condition
-
Weight and dimensions (for machinery)
-
Shipping season and demand
-
Documentation and port fees
Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)
(Actual pricing depends on departure port and availability—contact All Transport Depot for an exact quote.)
-
Sedans: Budget-friendly rates
-
SUVs: Moderately higher due to size
-
Pickup Trucks: Based on vehicle dimensions
-
Heavy Machinery: Priced by cubic meters (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to Guatemala
Correct documentation is essential for smooth export and fast clearance at Puerto Barrios.
Required documents include:
-
Original Vehicle Title
-
Bill of Sale
-
Copy of Passport or U.S. ID
-
Export Power of Attorney (provided by All Transport Depot)
-
Consignee details in Guatemala
-
Customs broker or clearing agent information (recommended)
Additional documentation may be required for salvage or auction vehicles.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Car from USA to Puerto Barrios via RORO
All Transport Depot manages the shipping process from start to finish.
1. Request a Quote
Submit vehicle details and Guatemalan destination.
2. Deliver Vehicle to Port or Schedule Pickup
Choose door-to-port or self-drop-off.
3. Vehicle Inspection at Export Port
Port authorities inspect the unit before loading.
4. U.S. Customs Export Clearance
All export documentation is handled by our team.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
The vehicle is driven onboard and secured.
6. Ocean Transit to Puerto Barrios
Vessels sail on fixed schedules.
7. Arrival & Guatemala Customs Clearance
The clearing agent handles import duties and inspections.
8. Vehicle Release to Consignee
Pickup directly from Puerto Barrios Port.
Transit Time from USA to Puerto Barrios
Transit times vary based on port of departure and vessel routing.
Estimated transit times:
-
East Coast to Puerto Barrios: ~7–14 days
-
Gulf Coast to Puerto Barrios: ~10–18 days
-
West Coast to Puerto Barrios: ~25–35 days
Weather conditions and port congestion may affect schedules.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to Guatemala
You can reduce costs by following these tips:
-
Ship from the closest U.S. port
-
Avoid peak shipping seasons
-
Submit documents early
-
Keep the vehicle running
-
Work with a licensed shipping provider
-
Book space in advance
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to Puerto Barrios
Avoid these common issues to prevent delays and extra charges:
-
Missing or incorrect documents
-
Leaving personal items inside the vehicle
-
Incorrect consignee information
-
Using unlicensed shipping agents
-
Delayed customs processing
-
Missing port pickup deadlines
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted name in international vehicle shipping to Central America.
Why customers choose us:
-
Fully licensed and bonded FMC NVOCC
-
Extensive experience with Central American routes
-
Regular RORO sailings to Puerto Barrios
-
Competitive pricing
-
Door-to-port and port-to-port services
-
Fast documentation processing
-
Dedicated customer support
Our goal is to make international shipping smooth, affordable, and reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed vehicle to Guatemala?
Only with written authorization from the lender.
• Does the vehicle need to be running?
Running vehicles cost less, but non-running units are accepted.
• Can I load personal items inside the vehicle?
RORO shipments require empty interiors.
• How long does customs clearance take in Guatemala?
Usually 3–7 business days.
• What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Guatemala?
RORO shipping is typically the most affordable 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
Maria is the operations manager at SoCal Auto Movers, where she oversees the daily operations of their car shipping services. Her efficiency and problem-solving skills ensure that each shipment, whether local or long-distance, goes off without a hitch.