Shipping a motorcycle is quite different from moving a standard car. Motorcycles are high value assets with exposed components, making them more susceptible to scratches or mechanical shifts if not handled correctly. Whether you are relocating across the country, selling a bike to an out of state buyer, or heading to a rally, ensuring your ride arrives in pristine condition is the top priority.
This guide provides a roadmap for safe motorcycle transport. We will cover everything from choosing the right shipping method to the final inspection at delivery.
1. Choose the Right Shipping Method
The first step in safe transport is deciding how your motorcycle will travel. There are two primary options in the industry.
- Enclosed Transport: This is the gold standard for motorcycle shipping. Your bike is placed inside a hard sided trailer, protecting it from rain, dust, road debris, and harsh sunlight. For classic bikes, custom builds, or expensive sportbikes, enclosed transport offers the highest level of security.
- Open Transport: In this method, the motorcycle is secured on an open trailer. While this is a more budget friendly option, the bike is exposed to the elements and road grime. It is a reliable choice for shorter distances or for riders who do not mind giving their bike a thorough wash upon arrival.
2. Research and Select a Reliable Carrier
Not all auto transport companies are equipped to handle motorcycles. You need a specialist who understands the physics of balancing a two wheeled vehicle.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure the company is registered with the Department of Transportation.
- Check Reviews: Look for feedback specifically mentioning motorcycle shipments. Pay attention to how they handle claims or delays.
- Ask About Equipment: A professional motorcycle shipper should use specialized straps, wheel chocks, and soft ties to prevent metal on metal contact.
3. Prepare Your Motorcycle for Transport
Preparation is the best way to prevent damage and ensure a smooth pickup process. Follow these steps before the driver arrives.
- Clean the Bike Thoroughly: A clean bike allows you to see every existing scratch or dent. This is vital for the Bill of Lading report. If the bike is covered in dirt, new damage might be hidden during the initial inspection.
- Document the Condition: Take high quality photos from every angle. Capture close ups of the engine, handlebars, and exhaust. If there is a dispute later, these photos serve as your primary evidence.
- Check for Leaks: The carrier will not want fluid dripping onto other vehicles. If your bike has a noticeable leak, repair it before shipping or inform the driver so they can place it on the bottom rack.
- Reduce Fuel Levels: Keep the gas tank at about one quarter full. This reduces the weight of the shipment and minimizes fire hazards while providing enough fuel for the driver to move the bike if necessary.
- Remove Loose Items: Take off any GPS units, toll tags, or soft luggage bags. If you have custom mirrors or a tall windshield that could catch the wind or get bumped, consider removing them and packing them separately.
4. Understand the Loading Process
Safety starts at the ramp. Watch how the professionals load your bike. They should use a wide, sturdy ramp or a hydraulic lift gate. Once inside the trailer, the motorcycle should be secured using a “four point” tie down system. The straps should be tightened enough to compress the suspension slightly, preventing the bike from bouncing, but not so tight that it blows the fork seals. Using soft loops around the handlebars or frame ensures the ratchets do not scratch the chrome or paint.
5. Insurance Coverage
While reputable carriers carry cargo insurance, you must understand the limits. Ask for a copy of their insurance certificate. Verify if the policy covers the full replacement value of your motorcycle. In many cases, your personal motorcycle insurance may also provide coverage during transit. It is worth a quick call to your agent to confirm.
The Cost of Shipping a Motorcycle
Several factors influence the final quote for motorcycle transport. Being aware of these can help you plan your budget.
- Distance: Longer hauls cost more, but the price per mile often drops as the distance increases.
- Location: Shipping between major cities is usually cheaper than shipping to or from a remote rural area.
- Seasonality: Rates may spike during the spring and summer when motorcycle rallies are in full swing.
- Bike Size: A heavy touring bike takes up more space and weight than a lightweight dirt bike, which impacts the price.
Final Delivery and Inspection
When the truck arrives at your destination, do not rush the process.
- Inspect the Bike: Compare the current state of the bike to the photos you took before shipping.
- Check the Controls: Ensure the handlebars, clutch, and brakes feel right.
- Review the Bill of Lading: If you notice any new damage, note it clearly on the Bill of Lading before signing. This is the most important document for any insurance claim.
- Test Start: Fire up the engine to make sure everything is running as it should.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ship my helmet with the motorcycle?
Most carriers prefer that you do not leave loose items like helmets or jackets with the bike. These items are generally not covered by the carrier’s insurance and could be lost or damaged during transit.
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle?
On average, long haul shipping takes between seven to ten days. Shorter regional trips might take three to five days. Factors like weather and driver rest requirements can affect these timelines.
Does the motorcycle need to be created?
Crating is not required for standard door-to-door shipping. Most professional transporters use specialized skids or tie-down systems that eliminate the need for a wooden crate, which saves you money and reduces waste.
Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
It is highly recommended that you or a trusted representative be present. You need to sign the inspection report and verify the condition of the motorcycle at both ends of the journey.
Can I ship a non-running motorcycle?
Yes, many carriers can accommodate non-running bikes, provided they can still roll and steer. Be sure to mention this when booking, as it may require a winch or specialized loading equipment.
Conclusion
Shipping a motorcycle does not have to be a stressful experience. By choosing a dedicated carrier, preparing your bike correctly, and documenting everything, you can ensure your pride and joy reaches its destination safely. At Amerigo Auto Transport, we specialize in providing secure and reliable transport solutions tailored to the needs of every rider. Are you ready to move your motorcycle? Contact us today for a free quote and let our team of experts handle the logistics for you.
About the Author
Zach Asher has spent years in the trenches of the U.S. auto transport world — from the broker’s desk to dispatch to customer service and everything in between. He’s a people-first guy through and through, the kind who’d give a customer the shirt off his back if that’s what it took to make things right. Before founding Amerigo Auto Transport, Zach worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, saw just how broken the system had become, and set out to build something better — a company grounded in honesty, communication, and doing what it says it will.
