Even a well-planned vehicle shipment can be delayed. Weather, port congestion, customs holds and vessel reschedules are the four most common causes — and most are outside any shipper's control.
Typical RoRo delays from the UK run 3–10 days beyond the published ETA. Container delays can be longer, especially when transhipment is involved. We always quote realistic dates rather than the carrier's optimistic schedule.
The single biggest factor under your control is paperwork. A V5 logbook, dating certificate or invoice that doesn't match the booking will get a container held at the port. Submitting documents 7 days before sailing eliminates 90% of avoidable delays.
If your shipment is delayed, marine insurance does not normally cover loss of use. Plan accordingly — don't book the destination collection until your vessel has actually sailed.