Ro-Ro Operations • Ramp SWL • Axle / Wheel Load • Gradient • Clearance • Traction • Loading Sequence

Ro-Ro Ramp SWL, Axle Load & Ramp Gradient Tool

Screen whether a truck, trailer, MAFI, heavy plant or project vehicle can use a ship ramp without exceeding the certified ramp SWL, approved axle/wheel loading or ramp-gradient limits. Simple mode answers the core loading question quickly. Advanced adds impact factors, tyre contact pressure, vehicle geometry, breakover, traction, edge clearance and additional concurrent vehicle groups.

Figures represent
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Need much more depth? Click Advanced above.Advanced adds impact factor, wheel/tyre load, local contact pressure, approach/departure/breakover, ramp occupancy, edge clearance, uphill traction and additional concurrent vehicle groups.
Fast9 primary inputs
Core answerSWL + axle + gradient
TransparentApproved limits control

Fast Ramp Loading Screen

Use the vessel’s certified ramp SWL and approved loading limits. Simple mode uses an operational factor of 1.00 and does not attempt local wheel-pressure, traction or breakover checks.

m.
m. Sign does not affect gradient magnitude.
t for the approved operating condition.
t. 0 disables this gate.
t.
t.
%. 0 disables this gate.

Ramp Geometry & Certified Limits

The vessel’s approved loading manual, class drawings, operating procedures and manufacturer data control. This tool does not derive a structural SWL.

m.
m.
m.
t.
t. 0 disables.
t. 0 disables.
kPa. 0 disables.
Use the approved vessel/class/project basis. Enter 1.00 if the certified limit already includes the applicable dynamic basis.
%. 0 disables.

Primary Vehicle & Geometry

t.
m.
m.
m between vehicles.
t static.
m².
degrees.
degrees.
m.
m.
%.

Additional Concurrent Vehicle Groups

Optional. Add only other vehicle groups that may be on the ramp at the same time. The primary vehicle group above is already included automatically.

Vehicle typeGVW tLength mWidth mConcurrentMax axle tTyres / axleContact m²

Traction & Vehicle-Control Screen

User/OEM/site assumption.
% of normal load.
m/s².
m each side.

Ramp Certification & Operational Readiness

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Structural limitation: this tool does not calculate ramp plating, stiffener, hinge, cylinder, wire, bearing or supporting-hull strength. Certified SWL, approved axle/wheel limits, class drawings, operating manual and vessel procedures always control.
Current regulatory / class context: SOLAS regulation II-1/3-13 on onboard lifting appliances entered into force on 1 January 2026. Applicability depends on the particular ramp/appliance and operating arrangement. Separately, classification rules for vehicle decks and fixed ramps address wheeled loads, axle/wheel loading and tyre-print effects. The vessel’s certified SWL, approved loading manual, class drawings and manufacturer instructions remain controlling for operational acceptance.
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