Shipping · 24 September 2026
RoRo vs Container Shipping From Japan to Ireland: Cost, Time and Risk (2026)
In short: RoRo (roll-on, roll-off) is the cheapest and most common way to ship a car from Japan to Ireland. Container shipping costs more but adds security, and it makes sense for high-value cars or when several cars share a container.
What is RoRo?
A RoRo ship is a floating car park. Your car is driven on in Japan and driven off in Ireland. There is no crane and no box.
What is container shipping?
Your car is strapped inside a 20ft or 40ft steel container, alone or with up to three or four other cars, and the container is sealed until it is unloaded.
Side by side
| RoRo | Container | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical cost to Ireland | Lower, and the usual choice for a single car | Higher for one car; can match RoRo when shared |
| Transit time | About 6 to 8 weeks | About 6 to 9 weeks, including consolidation |
| Security | Car accessible to crew; keep it empty | Sealed; personal items can travel |
| Weather exposure | Stored inside the ship's decks | Fully enclosed |
| Best for | Everyday cars, hybrids, MPVs | Premium, classic and performance cars, or group shipments |
Which should you choose?
- Choose RoRo for most imports: an Aqua, Prius, Golf, C-HR or Alphard.
- Choose a container for a high-value or rare car, or if you are importing two or more cars together.
What happens on arrival?
The car is discharged at Dublin Port, customs clears it, and it moves on to the VRT inspection and registration. Our shipping page shows every stage and lets you track the vessel.
Frequently asked questions
Is RoRo safe for shipping a car from Japan?
Yes. It is the standard method for most car imports. Cars travel inside the ship's decks and are insured in transit.
How long does shipping from Japan to Ireland take?
Around 6 to 8 weeks at sea for RoRo, and slightly longer for containers once consolidation is included.
Can I put personal items in the car?
Not with RoRo, where the car should be empty. Container shipping can allow it.