Shipping vehicles from the United States to Shanghai, China has seen steady growth as demand for American-made cars, SUVs, trucks, and heavy machinery continues to rise. One of the most efficient and widely used methods for transporting these units is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, valued for its affordability, safety, and fast turnaround. Whether you are shipping a personal vehicle to Shanghai or exporting commercial equipment for industrial use, RORO shipping provides a dependable and cost-effective solution.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and heavy equipment logistics, offering smooth, secure, and affordable RORO shipping services from major U.S. ports to Shanghai. With extensive experience, competitive pricing, and reliable sailing schedules, we ensure your shipment reaches China safely and on time—making us a trusted partner for U.S. to China vehicle exports.
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Why Choose RORO Shipping to Shanghai, China?
RORO shipping is one of the most practical methods for transporting vehicles to China. Vehicles are driven directly onto specialized RORO vessels, properly secured during transit, and driven off at the Port of Shanghai upon arrival.
Key advantages include:
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Cost-effective: Generally lower cost than container shipping
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Fast port handling: Quicker loading and unloading
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Reduced risk of damage: No cranes or container lifting
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Versatile shipping option: Cars, SUVs, trucks, vans, buses
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Ideal for machinery: Excavators, forklifts, tractors, loaders
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Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted with extra fees
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
RORO shipping to Shanghai is available from several major U.S. export ports. The ideal port depends on vehicle location, shipping cost, and sailing frequency.
Major U.S. RORO Export Ports
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Newark, New Jersey (EWR)
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Baltimore, Maryland (BAL)
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Savannah, Georgia (SAV)
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Jacksonville, Florida (JAXPORT)
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Galveston, Texas (GLS)
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Freeport, Texas
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Los Angeles / Long Beach – Preferred for West Coast shipments
How to Choose the Best Port
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Select the closest port to reduce inland transport costs
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East Coast ports may offer better availability
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West Coast ports reduce total transit time for China-bound cargo
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Ask All Transport Depot for discounted port rates
Shanghai Port – China’s Largest RORO Gateway
The Port of Shanghai is one of the world’s busiest and most advanced seaports, equipped to handle large volumes of RORO cargo. It offers modern terminals, strict security standards, and efficient customs clearance procedures.
Key features of Shanghai Port:
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Advanced RORO and vehicle handling facilities
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Suitable for personal, commercial, and industrial imports
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Handles cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles, and machinery
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Strong compliance with Chinese import and inspection regulations
All shipments must meet China’s customs, emissions, and import compliance standards.
Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO
RORO vessels support a wide variety of vehicle and equipment types, making this method suitable for both individuals and commercial buyers.
Passenger Vehicles
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Sedans
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Coupes
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SUVs
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Crossovers
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Minivans
Commercial Vehicles
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Pickup trucks
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Vans
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Buses
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Box trucks
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Flatbed trucks
Heavy Machinery
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Bulldozers
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Excavators
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Wheel loaders
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Forklifts
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Agricultural equipment
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Construction machinery
Other Equipment
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Motorcycles
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Boats & jet skis
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RVs and campers
Non-Running Units
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Accepted with special handling
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Forklift loading required
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Additional fees apply
Cost of RORO Shipping to Shanghai (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping costs to China vary depending on several variables. Understanding these factors helps estimate the final shipping price.
Factors That Affect RORO Rates
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Vehicle size and type
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Port of departure in the U.S.
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Running vs. non-running condition
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Weight and dimensions of machinery
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Seasonal demand and fuel rates
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Export documentation and port charges
Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)
(Exact pricing depends on schedule, port, and vessel availability—contact All Transport Depot for accurate quotes.)
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Sedans: Competitive rates from both coasts
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SUVs: Slightly higher due to size
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Pickup Trucks: Based on length and height
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Machinery: Charged by cubic meter (CBM)
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to China
Accurate documentation is critical for smooth export from the U.S. and clearance at Shanghai Port.
Required documents include:
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Original Vehicle Title
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Bill of Sale
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Copy of Passport or U.S. ID
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Export Power of Attorney (provided by All Transport Depot)
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Consignee information in China
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Import license (if required by Chinese customs)
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Additional paperwork for auction or salvage vehicles
Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Car from USA to Shanghai via RORO
All Transport Depot handles every stage of the shipping process.
1. Request a Shipping Quote
Provide vehicle details and destination in China.
2. Vehicle Pickup or Port Delivery
Door-to-port or self-drop-off options available.
3. Vehicle Inspection at Export Port
The vehicle is inspected prior to loading.
4. U.S. Customs Export Clearance
We manage AES filing and export documentation.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
The vehicle is driven onto the vessel and secured.
6. Ocean Transit to Shanghai
Vessels sail on scheduled routes.
7. Arrival & China Customs Clearance
Your licensed clearing agent manages inspection and duties.
8. Vehicle Release at Shanghai Port
The consignee collects the vehicle from the terminal.
Transit Time from USA to Shanghai
Transit times vary depending on the departure port and sailing route.
Estimated transit durations:
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West Coast to Shanghai: ~20–30 days
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East Coast to Shanghai: ~35–45 days
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Gulf Coast to Shanghai: ~40–50 days
Transit schedules may be affected by weather, congestion, or seasonal demand.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to China
Customers can reduce costs by following a few practical strategies:
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Ship from the nearest U.S. export port
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Use West Coast ports for shorter transit
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Submit documents early
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Ensure vehicles are running
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Avoid peak shipping seasons
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Work with a licensed logistics provider
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to Shanghai
Avoiding common issues helps prevent delays and additional costs:
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Incomplete or incorrect documentation
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Leaving personal items inside vehicles
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Incorrect consignee or importer details
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Working with unlicensed shipping agents
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Delays in customs paperwork
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Missing port pickup deadlines
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted provider for U.S. to China RORO vehicle shipping.
Why customers choose us:
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Fully licensed and bonded FMC NVOCC
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Extensive experience with China-bound cargo
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Regular sailings to Shanghai
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Competitive pricing
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Door-to-port and port-to-port service
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Fast documentation handling
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Dedicated customer support
Our goal is to make international vehicle shipping efficient, transparent, and worry-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed vehicle to China?
Only with written authorization from the lienholder.
• Does the vehicle need to be running?
Running vehicles cost less, but non-running units are accepted.
• Are personal items allowed inside the vehicle?
RORO shipments require empty interiors for safety compliance.
• How long does customs clearance take in Shanghai?
Typically 3–7 business days, depending on inspections.
• What is the most affordable way to ship a vehicle to China?
RORO shipping 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
David is a seasoned logistics coordinator at Miami Auto Shippers. With over a decade of experience, he excels in organizing the smooth and efficient transportation of vehicles. He’s known for his attention to detail and ensuring every car reaches its destination safely.