Why do ferry companies need my vehicle dimensions?

Ferry companies charge based on vehicle length and sometimes height. Vehicles over a certain length (usually 5m or 5.5m) attract a surcharge. Vehicles that are too tall for standard car decks may need to go on the freight deck. Accurate dimensions ensure you book the right category and avoid being turned away or charged extra at the port.

What height is a standard ferry car deck?

Most ferry car decks have a clearance of 1.85m to 2.0m (approximately 6ft to 6ft 7in). Vehicles over this height, including those with roof boxes, may need to use the freight deck or a high-clearance deck. Some operators have specific height limits — always check with your ferry company.

Do I need to remove my roof box for the ferry?

It depends on the total height. If your vehicle with roof box exceeds the car deck clearance (usually 1.85-2.0m), you may need to remove it or book a high-vehicle space at extra cost. Some ferries require you to declare roof boxes when booking. It is often easier and cheaper to remove it.

How are ferry vehicle lengths measured?

Ferry companies measure the total length including bumpers, tow bars, bike racks, and any trailer. A standard car up to 5m is usually the cheapest category. Each additional metre or category typically adds £20-£50 to the fare. Always measure from the furthest front point to the furthest rear point.

What happens if my vehicle is longer than booked?

If your vehicle is longer than the category you booked, you may be charged an upgrade fee at check-in or, in busy periods, may not be allowed to board. It is always better to book the correct size category. Tow bars can add 15-30cm to your length.

CarCalcs

Ferry Loading Calculator — Vehicle Dimensions for Ferries

Calculate your vehicle's total dimensions and weight for ferry booking requirements.

Vehicle Length

Vehicle Height

Vehicle Weight

Roof Box / Rack

Trailer

How We Calculate This

How Vehicle Dimensions Are Calculated

Total length = Vehicle length + trailer length (if applicable)
Total height = Vehicle height + roof box height (if applicable)
Total weight = Vehicle weight + trailer weight

Typical Ferry Categories

Standard car: up to 5.0m length, up to 1.85m height
Large car: 5.0m to 5.5m length
Large SUV / MPV: 5.5m to 6.5m length
Van: 6.5m to 7.0m length
Vehicle + trailer: 7.0m to 12.0m combined length

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Actual figures may vary based on driving conditions, vehicle specifications, and other factors.