Preparing your cargo correctly is vital for it to be loaded onto Roll-On/Roll-Off (RoRo) vessels. If machinery is not in good working order, this could increase the risk of damage to your cargo, injure stevedores or damage transportation equipment (i.e. trailers), or the vessel itself. With our personalised customer service, the key considerations detailed below can be discussed further with your local NMT staff when booking your RoRo cargo to ensure safe and efficient loading.
OPERATIONAL STATUS
Machinery and vehicles should be in good working condition with all mechanical, electrical, battery and hydraulic systems functioning properly. This includes engine performance, steering, brakes, transmission, lights, and other essential components. Ensure engine powered cargo has enough grunt to be able to move up the incline of the RoRo vessels ramp. Other checks: does your cargo have remote controls? Are they in good working order and safely stowed away? Is the cargo operated with batteries (or it is key start)? Have the batteries been checked for no leaks or issues?
TYRE CONDITION
Inspect tyres thoroughly for proper inflation, pressure, tread depth, and any signs of damage or wear and tear. Ensure all tyres are in good condition and are capable of safely supporting the vehicle’s weight during loading, transit and unloading operations.
Any cargo with flat or cut tyres will be refused by the carriers.
FLUID LEVELS AND LEAKS
Check all fluid levels: including engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid and hydraulic fluids. Ensure there are no leaks that could pose a risk during transit or contaminate other cargo (or the vessel deck). Cargo should have sufficient fuel to allow for loading and discharge operations, and potential standby idling time. Any leaks must be fixed before delivery ready for loading. Carriers can reject machinery with leaks on safety and environmental grounds. If leaks occur during transit, carriers can charge cleaning fees for the vessel and terminal. Cargo missing fuel and oil caps can also be rejected.
SECURE LOOSE ITEMS
Remove all loose items from the vehicles interior and trunk/boot to prevent them from shifting or causing damage during transit. Ensure all items that cannot be removed are secured, such as spare tyres and accessories which will prevent them from becoming projectiles. Generally, loose items are not allowed for RoRo vessels
(with the exceptions being spare tyre and jack included in cars).
VEHICLE WEIGHTS AND BALANCE
Ensure that the vehicle weight is evenly distributed to prevent instability or tipping during loading – especially for taller or heavier vehicles.
Follow manufacturer guidelines for maximum load capacity and distribution.
CLEANLINESS
All machinery and vehicles need to have a clean interior and exterior. All dirt, debris, and contaminants are to be removed so this doesn’t cause damage or corrosion during transit. The cleanliness of cargo is also a biosecurity requirement for Australian imports, which needs to be free of plant and animal materials (and other contaminants).
DOCUMENTATION AND COMPLIANCE
All necessary documentation – such as vehicle registration, insurance, and customs clearance documents – need to be in order and readily accessible. The startup and shut down procedures of the machine needs to be checked, documented, and secured with the machine. If the machine is complicated to operate or requires special instructions, the shipper must provide detailed operating instructions. The operating instructions should also include a 24-hour phone number for technical support if required.
By thoroughly inspecting and preparing cargo according to these guidelines, any issues that may arise can be addressed and resolved before loading.
