Knowing how it’s secured before the ship departs is essential when shipping a car from one country to another. Cars are shackled using nylon tie-down straps to hold them securely. A minimum of four straps is used, but more is required for larger vehicles or those parked perpendicular to the keel. The other ends of the straps are secured to the holes in the floor. Since the straps are so tight, the car cannot move, even when parked in a shady spot. And if the vehicle comes loose during transport, it could damage millions of dollars worth of property. Here are some ways how cars are transported on ships.

Roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ships

Roll-on/roll-off ships are vessels that load and unload cargo on quays. They have significant ramps and can accommodate a variety of freight. The Military Sealift Command most commonly uses these types of ships. They are more convenient for carrying cargo due to the minimal space they need to dock. Rolltrailers allow the LoLo traffic to be held on RoRo vessels.

Roll-on/roll-off (Roro) shipping is becoming a popular choice for international freight. Cargo is rolled onto the ship in the loading port and rolled off at its overseas destination. It is still important to note that RoRo ships are unavailable in all ports. Nonetheless, they are the preferred method for high-value cargo.

Containerized shipping

If you are shipping a classic car worldwide, containerized shipping is the way to go. It protects your vehicle from the elements and extreme weather. Auto-shipping containers are similar to auto hauling trailers, except that they stack cars one on top of the other. They also have built-in hoisting systems and are belted in place for safety. Unlike traditional methods, auto shipping is safer and more accessible. Auto-shipping experts take the time to devise a customized transport plan for car transport services.

While containerized shipping costs are higher than that of Roll on Roll shipping, it is worth it when it comes to safety. Since cars are filled with hazardous materials, they need to be transported in a particular part of the ship. Containerized shipping can save you money and ensure that your car arrives in the best condition possible. While air freight is cheaper, it can be dangerous and takes a long time to reach its destination.

Deck design

When a ship is built for carrying cars, it must meet the strict requirements of a PCC (Proprietary Car Carriers Container). A PCC is specially designed for the purpose and includes all features necessary for transporting road vehicles on the sea. This vessel provides an essential link between land and sea. The speed with which the cars can be loaded and unloaded is crucial. Car carriers are driven on and off the ship via ramps or oversized doors.

The deck design for cars on ships usually includes an aisle. The aisle is the walkway between decks that serves as a vehicle ramp. Liftable car decks are movable, meaning they can be removed and stowed away when not in use. These are typically multi-paneled and controlled by a hydraulic jigger winch. While the decks are not permanently attached, they are easily raised and lowered by the winch.

Ventilation

Ventilation for cars transported on ships is essential for preventing the build-up of harmful gases. However, it must be a priority for ship operators to ensure that the ventilation system is working correctly at sea. To do this, ship crews must become familiar with the ventilation system and create rules, routines, and guidelines. These procedures should be documented for future reference and can help prevent accidents. This article discusses the different options for ventilation on ships.

The most common ventilation method on ships is the installation of exhaust fans in the passenger compartment. The exhaust fans, generally used during loading, are also used to exhaust smoke. The ventilation system on board ships should shut down the supply air if a fire occurs quickly. Fire-safety systems must be able to prevent smoke from spreading into adjacent spaces. In addition, ventilation systems must be controlled by a remote control system and crew exercise.