How Does RORO Shipping Work for Vehicles?
RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) vessels are specifically designed to transport wheeled cargo without lifting or craning. Your vehicle is driven onto the ship at Port Klang, secured on the deck by trained stevedores, and driven off at the destination port. This method eliminates containerisation, cuts handling damage, and keeps shipping costs low.
Common ports served include Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and Bintulu. Cars, SUVs, motorcycles, and even light commercial vehicles can all be shipped via RORO. The process is identical for each: you drop off the vehicle, it sails on the next scheduled departure, and you collect it in Sabah or Sarawak.
Rentaka Logistics uses dedicated Malaysian-flagged RORO ships that operate on fixed schedules. Because the vessels are purpose-built for vehicle cargo, loading and discharge is often completed in a single day, reducing port charges and congestion.
RORO Ship Schedule: Northport, Westports, and the Main Ports
Rentaka Logistics coordinates RORO sailings from two main terminals at Port Klang: Northport and Westports. Each voyage aligns with the arrival of vessels servicing specific routes:
- Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
- Kuching, Sarawak
- Bintulu, Sarawak
Our planners publish schedules at least 30 days in advance. Because port slots, weather, and public holidays can shift sailings, we update the live schedule on our dedicated page — Sarawak shipping schedule. You’ll find departure dates, estimated time of arrival (ETA), and vessel names. We recommend checking the schedule at least two weeks before your preferred shipping window.
For example, a standard sedan shipped to Kuching departs almost every week. Sabah routes may run every 10 days. Always verify current dates as they can change. If a sailing is full, we’ll suggest the next available date with no extra charge.
How to Check the Latest RORO Schedule?
- 01
Visit the live schedule page
Go to Sarawak shipping schedule and select your destination port (Kuching, Bintulu, or Kota Kinabalu). The page displays all upcoming sailings for the chosen month.
- 02
Check available sailings
Review the list of departures. Each entry shows the vessel name, departure date from Port Klang, and estimated arrival date. For Sabah routes, arrival is typically 10–14 days after departure.
- 03
Cross-check with your timeline
Ensure the arrival date fits your relocation or delivery window. If you need the vehicle urgently, contact our dispatch team — we may have earlier slots if a cancellation occurs.
- 04
Request a quote
Once you choose a sailing, request a fixed price via our quote form. We’ll confirm the total cost based on your vehicle type and destination.
Factors That Affect the RORO Schedule
While RORO schedules are planned meticulously, several external factors can shift sailing dates or transit times:
- Major festive seasons: Demand spikes during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Gawai Dayak (June), and Kaamatan (May). Bookings for these periods fill months in advance. During festive seasons, extra vessels may be deployed, but passengers should always confirm sailing dates at least 6–8 weeks ahead.
- Monsoon season: The northeast monsoon (typically November to February) can cause rougher seas, especially for the South China Sea crossing to Sabah and Sarawak. While RORO vessels are large enough to operate safely, port congestion and slower sailing speeds may extend transit by a day or two.
- Port public holidays: Port operators observe federal and state public holidays. On these days, loading and unloading may pause. For example, a public holiday in Sarawak can delay discharge in Kuching. Always check the official holiday calendar from the Ministry of Transport (mot.gov.my) before finalising your sailing.
We proactively inform customers of any schedule changes. If your chosen departure is rescheduled, we’ll work with you to adjust the booking at no extra cost.
Step-by-Step RORO Booking for Your Vehicle Shipment
- 01
Prepare your vehicle documents
Gather the original registration card, a copy of your NRIC, and a valid Puspakom inspection report (if required by JPJ for ownership transfer). For vehicles under loan, secure a letter of release from the bank. Refer to JPJ guidelines for inter-state vehicle transfer.
- 02
Select a sailing date
Choose your preferred departure from our live schedule page. Consider buffer days for document processing and vehicle drop-off at the port.
- 03
Receive a fixed quote
Request your transparent price through our quote form. The rate includes sea freight, port charges, and standard insurance. No hidden fees.
- 04
Drop off your vehicle
Drive your car to our designated collection point at Port Klang at least 24 hours before sailing. Our team will inspect the vehicle condition and load it onto the vessel. You’ll receive a confirmation with the vessel name and ETA.
- 05
Track your shipment
We provide updates during transit. On arrival, our agent at the destination port will contact you for vehicle collection. Ensure you have your identity card and any additional state-specific forms for Customs clearance (refer to customs.gov.my for Sabah/Sarawak import requirements).
RORO Shipping Cost: Fixed Rates With No Surprises
Rentaka Logistics believes in upfront, all-in pricing. The cost of RORO shipping is determined by your vehicle category and destination:
- Kota Kinabalu (Sabah): Sedan — RM2,480 | SUV — RM2,580 | Motorcycle — RM1,250
- Kuching (Sarawak): Sedan — RM2,150 | SUV — RM2,350 | Motorcycle — RM1,250
- Bintulu (Sarawak): Sedan — RM2,500 | SUV — RM2,600 | Motorcycle — RM1,650
These rates cover sea freight, port handling, customs documentation assistance, and basic insurance. Heavy or oversized vehicles (e.g., commercial vans, lorries) follow the 15–25 days transit window and are quoted case-by-case. There are no hidden surcharges for peak seasons; we honour the confirmed price even if demand surges.
Need a precise calculation? Use our quote tool — it takes 30 seconds.
FAQ
How often do RORO ships depart from Port Klang to East Malaysia?
RORO vessels sail weekly or bi-weekly, depending on the destination. Port Klang–Kuching services run nearly every week, while Sabah routes typically depart every 10 days. Check our live [schedule](/jadual-kapal-hantar-kereta-ke-sarawak/) for the latest sailing dates and real-time availability.
Can I ship a modified vehicle via RORO?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is roadworthy and meets standard dimensions. Oversized or extremely modified vehicles may need a custom assessment. Contact our team for a free evaluation before booking your slot.
What happens if the schedule changes due to bad weather?
You will be notified immediately. We rebook your shipment to the next available sailing at no extra cost. Your vehicle remains insured during the delay, and we manage all port re-scheduling paperwork on your behalf.
Do I need to be present at the port for vehicle drop-off?
Yes, or you can authorise a representative with a signed letter and a copy of your NRIC. Our ground team at Port Klang will guide you through the drop-off process and ensure your car is safely loaded onto the vessel.
Ready to Ship Your Vehicle?
Check live RORO schedules and get a fixed price in minutes. Secure your slot before it fills up.



