Rolltrailer (MAFI) Shipping for Breakbulk and Out-of-Gauge Cargo

Depth Logistics is a world leader and highly innovative in shipping static, breakbulk and out-of-gauge cargo efficiently on rolltrailers, also known as MAFI trailers, on roll on/roll off (RoRo) vessels. Rolltrailers range from 6.1 m to 24.4 m long and carry up to 160 t, and the cargo is stowed below deck, out of the weather. We actually prefer this shipment method rather than containerisation or shipment via conventional tweendecker vessels, and overall costs are often lower for many types of cargo.

What we ship on rolltrailers

We routinely ship:

• Mining equipment
• Construction equipment
• Agricultural equipment
• Locomotives and rail cars
• Boats
• Industrial plant and machinery
• Energy generation equipment

What is a rolltrailer (MAFI trailer)?

A rolltrailer (often called a MAFI trailer) is a low, heavy-duty trailer that is part of the ship’s own equipment on modern RoRo vessels. Specialised tractors tow the loaded rolltrailer on and off the ship, and it is stowed below deck, so the cargo is protected from the weather at sea. Rolltrailers come in a range of lengths, widths and weight capacities, and two or more can be combined into a single module for very long or very heavy cargo.

Benefits of rolltrailer shipping

• Safer handling: minimal lifting for loading and unloading, compared with conventional tweendecker ships where cargo is lifted 20 m or more
• Below-deck stowage: cargo is protected from the weather
• Lower handling costs than heavy lift vessels
• Suits all static and breakbulk cargo
• Out-of-gauge cargo is easy to handle: you are not limited to the inside dimensions of a container. Cargo that is wider or longer than the rolltrailer is fine, as long as it is stable, can be securely lashed and fits through the ship’s hatches
• Faster vessel loading and discharge than conventional vessels
• Rail cargo: some rolltrailers have built-in rails, so locomotives and rail cars can be loaded without lifting and stowed safely
• Less dismantling and reassembly than containerisation, saving time and cost

Rolltrailer types and dimensions

20′ rolltrailer

Length 6.10 m · Width 2.50 m · Height 0.60 m · Max. cargo weight 25 t

30′ rolltrailer

Length 9.20 m · Width 2.80 m · Height 0.90 m · Max. cargo weight 160 t

32′ superlow rolltrailer

Length 9.80 m · Width 2.80 m · Height 0.47 m · Max. cargo weight 75 t

40′ rolltrailer

Length 12.20 m · Width 2.60 m · Height 0.70–0.80 m (100 t) or 0.84 m (120 t) · Max. cargo weight 100 t or 120 t For wider cargo, two 40′ rolltrailers can be placed side by side and joined with a coupling system (double-wide rolltrailer).

62′ heavy-duty rolltrailer

Length 18.90 m · Width 2.85 m · Height 1.05 m · Max. cargo weight 140 t · With rails

62′, 72′ and 80′ rolltrailers

Length 18.90 m, 22.00 m or 24.40 m · Width 2.55–2.80 m · Height 0.85–0.86 m · Max. cargo weight 90–100 t · Available with rails (1435 mm and 1067 mm gauge)

Getting your cargo to the ship from Brisbane, Darwin and Townsville

Our Depth Defence Logistics Centres (2DLCs) in Brisbane and Darwin and our Townsville depot are close to each city’s port. Our own road transport and heavy haulage fleet, including low loaders, drop deck widener trailers and prime movers rated up to 140t, can deliver oversize cargo to the wharf for loading. In Darwin, a Kalmar RT240 reach stacker and a 50,000 sqm laydown area are available for project cargo staging close to Darwin Port. We ship rolltrailer/RoRo cargo through the Australian ports of Brisbane, Port Kembla, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle, Darwin, Townsville and Mackay.

Preparing static and breakbulk cargo for RoRo shipping

• Unstable cargo, such as tall and narrow units, should be presented lying down. If this is not possible, tell us when you ask for a quote and book.
• Carriers can reject cargo with missing fuel or oil caps.
• Secure every item in or on the cargo so it cannot move and cause damage in transit.

Marking, labelling and crate design

Cargo must be labelled to comply with international standards and regulations. Labels and marks must be waterproof and fixed so they cannot blow off. Include:

1. Lashing, sling and lifting points clearly marked on cargo over 1 t
2. Inspection hatches in crates
3. Port of loading and port of destination
4. Length, width, height and weight on each breakbulk piece
5. Centre of gravity on all four sides of cargo over 1 t
6. Safe stacking loads per layer on cargo over 1 t
7. “Fragile”, “Keep dry” or “This side up” markings, if applicable
8. “No forklift” if the item cannot be lifted with a forklift
9. ISPM treatment marking, if applicable
10. Any other relevant handling or securing information

If these guidelines are not followed, the cargo may be short shipped and extra costs may be charged to your account. For container and flat rack cargo, see our flat rack packing guide and container packing guide.

Marine insurance

We strongly recommend marine insurance for your cargo. We can quote it if you give us the cargo value. Most underwriters require a condition report before shipping in case of a claim.

Comparative pricing

We are happy to give you comparative pricing and work with you on the most efficient way to ship your cargo, including whether it can be converted to RoRo rolltrailer cargo, as it is the most efficient way to transport any type of heavy or out of gauge cargo. We can also handle customs clearance and international shipping end to end.

Frequently asked questions