If you’ve just bought a car in the U.S. and need to ship it to Nigeria, you’ll quickly discover there are two main options: RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping and container shipping.
But which one is right for you? 🤔
The truth is, both options have their benefits—and the best choice depends on your budget, the type of car you’re shipping, and whether you’re sending extra cargo.
In this post, we’ll break down the differences between RoRo and container shipping, their costs, pros and cons, and help you decide which is the best fit for your shipment to Nigeria.
What Is RoRo Shipping?
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) shipping means your car is driven directly onto the ship, secured inside, and then rolled off when it arrives at the Nigerian port.
Advantages of RoRo:
- Affordable – Usually the cheapest way to ship a vehicle.
- Fast Loading/Unloading – Cars drive on and off with ease.
- Great for Most Cars – Works for sedans, SUVs, trucks, and even heavy machinery.
Limitations of RoRo:
- Car must be in working condition (able to roll on/off).
- You cannot ship personal belongings or goods inside the car.
- Less protection compared to a sealed container.
👉 Best For: Regular cars, SUVs, and trucks when cost is the main concern.
What Is Container Shipping?
Container shipping means your car is loaded into a secure steel container—either on its own or shared with other cargo.
Advantages of Container Shipping:
- More Security – Your car is enclosed and protected from weather or theft.
- Ship Extra Cargo – You can add personal effects, spare parts, or business goods.
- Good for High-Value Cars – Luxury, classic, or delicate vehicles are safer in containers.
Limitations of Container Shipping:
- More expensive than RoRo.
- Slightly longer loading/unloading process.
👉 Best For: High-value vehicles, cars plus household goods, or bulk cargo.
Cost Comparison: RoRo vs Container Shipping
While prices vary depending on the season, location, and vehicle type, here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- RoRo Shipping: $1,200 – $1,800 per car (average)
- Container Shipping (20ft): $3,500 – $5,000 (fits 1–2 cars)
- Container Shipping (40ft): $5,500 – $8,000 (fits 3–4 cars or cars + goods)
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re only shipping one standard car, RoRo is cheaper. If you’re shipping multiple cars or want to add personal items, a container is more cost-effective in the long run.
Transit Times
Both methods usually take around 4–6 weeks from the USA to Nigeria.
- RoRo tends to be faster at the ports since cars can drive straight on and off.
- Containers may take a little longer for customs clearance and unloading, but offer more protection.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Situation | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping 1 car (affordable option) | RoRo | Cheaper and straightforward |
| Shipping multiple cars | Container (FCL) | Better value for money |
| Shipping a luxury or classic car | Container | Maximum protection |
| Shipping a car + personal effects | Container | Allows mixed cargo |
| Car not running | Container | Still possible to load safely |
Why Jafbis Logistics?
Whether you choose RoRo or container shipping, the most important decision is picking a reliable logistics partner.
At Jafbis Logistics LLC, we:
- ✅ Offer both RoRo and container shipping options.
- ✅ Provide nationwide vehicle haulage to our Dallas hub.
- ✅ Give you transparent pricing with no hidden charges.
- ✅ Handle all paperwork and customs support.
- ✅ Keep you updated until your car arrives safely in Nigeria.
Final Thoughts
Both RoRo and container shipping are excellent ways to move your car from the USA to Nigeria. The right choice depends on your budget, the value of your car, and whether you’re shipping additional cargo.
If you’re unsure which one works best for you, our team at Jafbis Logistics can guide you step by step so you make the smartest decision.
🚗 Your car, your cargo, delivered with care.
👉 Ready to ship? 📞 Contact Jafbis Logistics
