What is RORO?car shipping to Sabah & Sarawak

🚢What Is RORO?

RORO (Roll‑on/Roll‑off) is a shipping method where vehicles are driven directly onto a specialised vessel via built‑in ramps at the port.

The car is secured on a designated deck and remains stationary throughout the voyage. At the destination port, it is simply driven off the ship.

No crates, cranes, or lifting equipment are required. This drive‑on, drive‑off process dramatically reduces handling risk and speeds up turnaround times.

In Malaysia, RORO is the backbone of vehicle logistics across the South China Sea. Ports like Westports and Northport in Port Klang serve as key hubs for sailings to Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, and Bintulu.

Our fleet includes purpose‑built RORO carriers such as RORO Northport and RORO Westports, built to Malaysian Marine Department standards.

⚙️How Does RORO Work for Shipping to Sabah/Sarawak?

The RORO process follows a tidy sequence designed for safety and efficiency. Here’s how a typical shipment from Port Klang to East Malaysia unfolds:

1. 01

   Documentation and Booking

   Submit your booking with vehicle details (make, model, chassis number). You’ll need a copy of the vehicle registration card (VOC) from JPJ and owner’s IC. We handle the customs declaration using K1/K9 forms for domestic transfers.

2. 02

   Vehicle Inspection

   Before the sailing date, the car undergoes a pre‑shipment inspection. This checks for damage, verifies fluid levels, and confirms the battery is secured. While not mandatory for all shipments, we recommend a PUSPAKOM voluntary inspection for complete peace of mind.

3. 03

   Delivery to the Port

   Drive the vehicle to the appointed loading bay at Westports or Northport. Our ground crew will guide you into the holding area. If you cannot drive it yourself, we offer a collection service from your location within the Klang Valley.

4. 04

   Loading

   A RORO stevedore drives the car up the stern ramp onto the vessel. The vehicle is lashed to the deck with wheel chocks, lashing belts, and tire nets — a procedure aligned with MARIi marine safety guidelines.

5. 05

   Customs Clearance & Pickup

   After the sailing, our port agent clears customs at Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, or Bintulu. Once the vessel berths, you can pick up the vehicle directly from the port compound or arrange local delivery.

💰How Much Does RORO Shipping Cost?

Shipping costs with Rentaka Logistics are transparent and fixed — no hidden surcharges. Pricing depends on vehicle type and destination, and we publish bundled rates covering port charges, lashing, and documentation.

Indicative rates for 2026 (prices may fluctuate with fuel surcharges; check the latest via the quote form):

• Sedan to Kota Kinabalu: RM2,480
• Sedan to Kuching: RM2,150
• Sedan to Bintulu: RM2,500
• SUV/MPV to Kota Kinabalu: RM2,580
• SUV/MPV to Kuching: RM2,350
• SUV/MPV to Bintulu: RM2,600
• Motorcycle to Kota Kinabalu: RM1,250
• Motorcycle to Kuching: RM1,250
• Motorcycle to Bintulu: RM1,650

Need a quote for a heavy vehicle or modified car? Our team calculates bespoke rates using the same fair formula. Get an exact, all‑in price in minutes through our online quote form.

⏱️How Long Does Shipping Take Using RORO?

Transit time from Port Klang to East Malaysia depends on the port of discharge and sea conditions. On average, you can expect:

• Standard transit (sedan, motorcycle): 10–14 days
• Heavy or oversize vehicles (due to loading sequencing): 15–25 days

Note that festive seasons — Hari Raya, Gawai Dayak, Kaamatan, or Chinese New Year — can extend door‑to‑door time by a few days. We advise booking early during these periods.

For up‑to‑date sailing schedules and berthing windows, always refer to our ship schedule page. It lists every confirmed RORO departure.

📋What Vehicle Preparation Is Needed Before Shipping?

Proper preparation prevents delays and protects your vehicle. Use this checklist before the handover day:

1. 01

   Complete Documents

   Prepare:

   • Original Vehicle Registration Card (VOC) — must be valid and transferred to the owner’s name, as per JPJ regulations.
   • Owner’s IC (or passport for foreign owners).
   • Insurance cover note — third‑party is sufficient, but comprehensive is recommended.
   • Customs declaration — we assist with K1/K9 forms, but you must sign the declaration.
2. 02

   Mechanical Condition

   Ensure the vehicle is in running condition — RORO requires the car to be driven on and off. Check:

   • Battery charged and terminals tight.
   • Tyre pressures correct.
   • No major fluid leaks.
   • Fuel level below ¼ tank (safety regulation). If the car cannot move under its own power, special handling is needed — inform us before booking.
3. 03

   Personal Belongings

   Personal belongings are not covered by marine cargo insurance and may delay customs clearance. Remove all loose items from the cabin and boot. A single small bag containing essentials (jack, warning triangle) may be permitted if declared in the inventory list.

4. 04

   Final Inspection

   Photograph the vehicle from all angles at the port. This documentation, combined with our condition report, protects you in the unlikely event of a claim. We also conduct a joint inspection with the PUSPAKOM station if a mandatory test is required.

❓Frequently Asked Questions About RORO

Below are answers to the most common queries from vehicle owners sending their cars to Sabah and Sarawak.

❓FAQ