Companies and individuals looking to purchase merchant’s vessels need to examine each vessel carefully to ensure all functions work as intended. This remains true whether they are looking to purchase a vessel designed for carrying passengers on leisure voyages or those that carry both vehicles and humans. Anyone in this position should consider RORO vessels for sale.
Before purchasing a vessel of this type, determine whether it offers easy loading and unloading options. In addition, the vessel should provide flexible shipping solutions. A failure to examine these functions before purchasing could lead to a vessel that fails to fulfill the goal of moving the company or individual ahead of the competition.
When choosing a vessel, look for one that includes safe zones for cargo and passengers. It should allow for convenient loading and unloading while also providing cargo solutions the owner may customize. Visit http://www.nautisnp.com/rollonrolloff to see some of the options available today. Before doing so, however, understand what RORO ships are and their many uses.
What are RORO Vessels?
RORO serves as an acronym for roll-on/roll-off. Ships with this designation function to carry wheeled cargo from one point to another. The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) defined this type of vessel as “a passenger ship with RORO cargo spaces or special category spaces”. They established this definition in the November 1995 amendments to Chapter II-1 in SOLAS, 1974.
This vessel carries both private and commercial vehicles. In addition to transporting cargo, the vessel often carries passengers for short water rides. They come in a range of sizes and various types, allowing each individual or company to choose the vessel which best meets their needs.
A RORO ship differs from lift on-lift off (LOLO) vessels in that it doesn’t use a crane to load cargo. Built-in ramps make it easy to load and unload vehicles quickly. The ramps are usually located towards the vessel’s stern or backside. However, some ships come with ramps on the front or bow side and possibly on the sides. The vessel may be used for transporting civilians or the military and their vehicles.
Buyers must understand the benefits of RORO vessels and compare these benefits to other vessel options. Many owners find this option serves as the best choice for their needs. This is due to the several types of RORO vessels offered today and the benefits of offering RORO transport.
Types of RORO Vessels
Ropax vessels are those ships capable of carrying both passengers and transport cargo. They function to offer maximum efficiency while seamlessly transferring passengers, cargo, and vehicles. The abbreviation refers to roll-on and pax, which means passenger abroad. Vessels capable of carrying more than 500 passengers go by the name cruise ferries. These vessels typically handle short sea transport and must comply with passenger ship international standards along with RORO standards. Most vessels of this type are found in Northern Europe.
ConRo vessels, in contrast, bring together a RORO vessel and a container ship. The top deck holds freight while the bottom portion of the ship carries the vehicles. Owners typically find they can hoist or lower the tween decks to accommodate the cargo being carried. In certain situations, the vessel comes separated into two parts. The underdeck features cell guides where containers can be loaded. On the other side underdeck, vehicles are carried. Vessel owners must load and discharge the freight carefully with this type of ship. The weight distribution could affect the stability of the ship, one that was first introduced in the 1950s. These vessels come with less windage area than their RORO siblings.
Pure car carriers function to carry passenger vehicles in large quantities. These vessels store the cargo completely, keeping the vehicles enclosed throughout the journey. The carrier features a box-type framework that spans the width and length of the vessel’s hull. A version of the pure car carrier is a pure car truck carrier. This vessel carries trucks and other four-wheeler variations.
ROLO or roll-on lift off-vessels serve as a fourth option for those in need of a RORO vessel. This hybrid vessel comes with ramps for loading and unloading vehicles. Cargo decks, on the other hand, can only be accessed using a crane. These vehicles carry vehicles and general cargo or heavy metals. The weight of the general cargo pieces or heavy metal items might exceed the ramp’s payload, leading to the need for cranes to load and discharge the items into the hold.
Why Buy a RORO Vessel?
Owners often select RORO vessels for their speed. They can easily drive the cargo onto the ship and drive it off when it reaches its destination port. This saves time and money while guaranteeing swift transportation. The vessel easily integrates with other containers and allows for rapid shipping over large distances. People appreciate having access to RORO vessels because they can take their vehicle on holiday and get around on their own.
Vessel owners love the vessels because they offer one of the least expensive shipping options today. Vehicle owners likewise enjoy this option, as it saves them money when compared to exclusive container service and air shipping. Furthermore, they appreciate knowing when their vehicle will depart and arrive at the selected destination.
Purchasing a RORO vessel
Individuals and companies looking to invest in a RORO vessel should consider working with a shipbroker company. The shipbroker works to find clients the right vessels for their needs at affordable prices. With many types to select from, buyers may wonder which vessel they should purchase to get the best return on investment. The broker helps them select from the many options available today.
Purchasing a RORO vessel offers several benefits. Buyers find they don’t have to settle for a particular type of ship, as there are options available today. Nevertheless, they must understand the options and the benefits and drawbacks of each. An experienced shipbroker becomes of great help at this time in determining which vessel will allow for the best return on investment. Contact an experienced broker today to begin the process and you’ll be the proud owner of a new ship in less time than you may have imagined possible.
Cover photo credit: Port of Tacoma / Flickr
