Shipping vehicles from the United States to Tamatave (Toamasina), Madagascar has grown steadily as demand increases for American cars, SUVs, trucks, and heavy machinery. One of the most efficient and cost-effective methods for transporting these units is RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) shipping, valued for its simplicity, speed, and reduced handling risks. Whether you are shipping a personal vehicle to Tamatave Port or exporting construction equipment for projects in Madagascar, RORO provides a reliable solution for individuals, dealers, and commercial buyers.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in international vehicle and machinery logistics, offering secure, streamlined, and affordable RORO shipping from major U.S. ports directly to Tamatave. With extensive experience, competitive pricing, and dependable sailing schedules, we ensure every shipment is handled professionally from pickup to arrival.
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Why Choose RORO Shipping to Tamatave, Madagascar?
RORO shipping is one of the most practical options for transporting vehicles and machinery to Madagascar. Vehicles are driven directly onto the vessel, securely fastened during transit, and driven off upon arrival at Tamatave Port.
Key advantages include:
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Cost-effective: Typically cheaper than container shipping
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Fast loading & unloading: Minimal handling speeds up the process
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Lower risk of damage: No cranes or container lifting involved
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Wide compatibility: Cars, SUVs, trucks, buses, motorcycles
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Ideal for heavy machinery: Excavators, bulldozers, forklifts, tractors
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Best for running vehicles: Non-running units accepted with added fees
Popular RORO Ports in the United States
RORO shipments to Tamatave depart from several major U.S. ports. The ideal export port depends on vehicle location, shipping schedule, and overall cost.
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 – Best for West Coast shipments
How to Choose the Best Port
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Choose the nearest port to reduce inland transport costs
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East Coast ports usually offer faster sailings to Africa
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Compare schedules and pricing
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Ask All Transport Depot about discounted export rates
Tamatave Port (Toamasina) – Main RORO Gateway of Madagascar
Port of Tamatave (Toamasina) is Madagascar’s largest and busiest seaport, serving as the primary entry point for imported vehicles and machinery.
Tamatave Port highlights:
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Handles personal and commercial vehicle imports
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Equipped for cars, trucks, buses, and heavy equipment
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Central location for nationwide distribution
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Customs and inspections follow Malagasy import regulations
Types of Vehicles and Machinery Shipped via RORO
RORO shipping supports a broad range of vehicles and equipment, making it suitable for both private and commercial shipments.
Passenger Vehicles
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Sedans
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Coupes
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SUVs
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Minivans
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Crossovers
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 machinery
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Construction equipment
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 forklift loading
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Additional handling charges apply
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Early port delivery required
Cost of RORO Shipping to Tamatave (2025 Guide)
RORO shipping rates depend on vehicle size, port of departure, and shipping conditions. Below are the main cost factors to consider.
Factors That Affect RORO Pricing
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Vehicle type and size
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Export port location
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Running vs. non-running condition
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Machinery dimensions (CBM pricing)
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Seasonal demand
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Port and documentation fees
Typical Price Ranges (Estimated)
(Exact rates vary—contact All Transport Depot for current pricing.)
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Sedans: Competitive rates from East Coast ports
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SUVs: Higher due to size and weight
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Pickup Trucks: Priced by class and dimensions
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Heavy Machinery: Calculated by cubic meters
Documents Required for RORO Shipping to Madagascar
Correct documentation ensures a smooth export and clearing process in Tamatave.
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 name, address, and phone number in Madagascar
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Clearing agent details (recommended)
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Auction or salvage vehicles may require additional documents
Step-by-Step Process: How to Ship a Car from USA to Tamatave via RORO
All Transport Depot manages each stage of the RORO shipping process.
1. Request a Quote
Provide vehicle details and destination in Madagascar.
2. Vehicle Delivery or Pickup
Choose door-to-port pickup or self-drop at the export port.
3. Port Inspection
The vehicle is inspected prior to vessel loading.
4. U.S. Export Customs Clearance
All export filings are handled on your behalf.
5. RORO Vessel Loading
Vehicle is driven onboard and secured.
6. Ocean Transit to Tamatave
Sailings operate on scheduled routes.
7. Arrival & Madagascar Customs Clearance
Clearing agent handles duty, inspections, and fees.
8. Final Vehicle Release
Vehicle is collected directly from Tamatave Port.
Transit Time from USA to Tamatave
Transit times vary based on port of departure and sailing schedules.
Estimated transit durations:
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East Coast to Tamatave: ~30–45 days
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Gulf Coast to Tamatave: ~35–50 days
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West Coast to Tamatave: ~50–65 days
Transit times may be affected by weather, vessel routing, and port congestion.
How to Save Money on RORO Shipping to Madagascar
Smart planning can help reduce shipping expenses.
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Ship from the nearest U.S. port
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Avoid peak shipping seasons
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Submit documents early
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Ensure the vehicle is running
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Work with a licensed exporter like All Transport Depot
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Book space early for better rates
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Shipping to Tamatave
Avoid these issues to prevent delays and extra charges:
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Missing or incorrect documents
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Leaving personal items inside vehicles
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Incorrect consignee information
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Using unlicensed shipping agents
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Delayed customs processing
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Ignoring port storage deadlines
Why Ship With All Transport Depot?
All Transport Depot is a trusted provider for RORO shipping from the USA to Madagascar.
Our advantages:
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Licensed & bonded FMC NVOCC
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Experience with Africa-bound shipments
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Reliable sailings to Tamatave
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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
We focus on making international shipping simple, secure, and affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Can I ship a financed vehicle to Madagascar?
Only with lender approval or once the loan is fully paid.
• Must the vehicle be running?
Running vehicles cost less, but non-running units are accepted.
• Are personal items allowed inside the vehicle?
No, RORO requires empty interiors for safety.
• How long does customs clearance take in Tamatave?
Typically 3–7 business days.
• What is the cheapest way to ship a car to Madagascar?
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.