- Overseas & International Motorcycle Shipping
- Overseas & International Motorcycle Shipping Companies
- Motorcycle Shipping Costs & Time Examples
- International Motorcycle Transport Options
- Cost Factors & Required Documents For Overseas Motorcycle Transport
- Required Documents
- Secondary Resources For International Motorcycle Shipping
- Related Information
Overseas & International Motorcycle Shipping
We transport motorcycles internationally for collectors, auto shows, dealers, travelers, motorcycle enthusiasts, expatriates and anyone else who needs a bike transported to another country. Price estimates for shipping motorcycles overseas include loading and unloading, transport, full insurance coverage and assistance with import and export laws specific to the countries involved.
Save up to 50% by requesting a quote through our online form! All international motorcycle shipping quotes are FREE of charge! Call us at 1-800-518-8708 for a FREE consultation!
Overseas & International Motorcycle Shipping Companies
Shipping a motorcycle to another country is not much more complex than transporting it within the U.S. The main difference is that there is another step involved (in most cases) pertaining to transport by ship. The majority of shipments internationally involve three steps:
- Transport from the current location to the shipping port.
- International motorcycle shipping from port to port.
- Transport from port to the final destination
Though it is cheaper to ship a motorcycle than a car or truck, the additional steps involved with shipping overseas add up. The extra steps make the process lengthy and come with an additional cost to ship your motorcycle. If the bike’s current location and ultimate destination are not near a shipping port, that will raise the shipping cost due to the ground transport part of the equation.
Here are some examples of shipments and costs that give a good estimate of what you can expect in terms of total shipping costs.
*Note that there are other costs affiliated with international shipping, such as import duties and applicable taxes (see the second section below for more information about duties and taxes).
Motorcycle Shipping Costs & Time Examples
| To/From | Ground | Ocean | Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY to (New York port) to Germany | $275 | $365 | 5+19 |
| Los Angeles to (California port) to UK | $350 | $700 | 5+32 |
| Las Vegas, NV to (California port) to New Zealand | $450 | $450 | 5+26 |
| Portland, OR to (California port) to Puerto Rico | $475 | $600 | 6+20 |
| Phoenix, AZ to (California port) to Hawaii | $550 | $370 | 6+15 |
| Columbus, OH to (New York port) to Spain | $550 | $365 | 5+19 |
| Detroit, MI to (New York port) to Argentina | $575 | $515 | 6+26 |
| Chicago, IL to (New York port) to Costa Rica | $675 | $650 | 6+16 |
| Miami, FL to (New York port) to Belgium | $925 | $370 | 7+18 |
| Dallas, TX to (California port) to Australia | $1,025 | $400 | 7+30 |
- *Prices and times are estimated and can vary depending on the shipment's specifics (see below for cost factors).
- *Save on ground transport costs by delivering the motorcycle to the nearest port.
- *Allow at least ten days to process documents.
- *Prices are for one motorcycle in a shared 20-foot container.
International Motorcycle Transport Options
RORO (Roll on, roll off) - Roll-on, roll-off service is a popular method for shipping a motorcycle or heavy equipment that involves travel by ship. In simple terms, your motorcycle is driven onto the transport boat, secured internally with a built-in mechanism or using tie-downs and skids, and then transported to the port nearest your destination. After arrival, it is transported by a standard overland carrier to the specified location.
Crated - Crated motorcycle shipping is a secure and affordable way for shipping a motorcycle internationally, usually in a shipping container. With crating, the bike is fastened tightly onto a crate, enclosed securely, and then placed on a pallet before transport. (This can also be called palletized motorcycle shipping.)
Container - Shipping multiple motorcycles in a shipping container can save time and money. Motorcycles shipped by container may be created for protection or they may be secured with straps and tie downs to prevent movement during transit. Shipping your vintage bikes can get expensive but sharing a container with other people can help you save money.
Door to door - Even for international transport, shipping a motorcycle right to your door can be an option. Naturally, it will cost more than if you picked it up at a local terminal or port, but it’s an ultimate convenience for long-distance vehicle transport. Door-to-door motorcycle shipping is ideal for the delivery of rare, high-end or classic bikes.
Port to port - A more affordable overseas transport option than door-to-door is the port-to-port delivery service. Port-to-port transport requires the bike to be delivered to the shipping port of origin and then picked up at the port in the country where it’s being shipped. There is some more legwork involved, but it can save money by eliminating the cost of overland transport, costing between $200 to $500 on both ends, depending primarily on the distance.
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Cost Factors & Required Documents For Overseas Motorcycle Transport
As far as the cost of shipping is concerned, there are a few key factors that have the most impact on what you can expect to pay. These are the main points to consider along those lines:
- Type/size of motorcycle
- Transportation distance
- Method of transport
- Import duties & VAT (Value-Added Tax)
Import duties and the value-added tax should be considered separately from the cost to ship since they are independent of one another. While they both affect your final cost, the duties and taxes are not paid to the shipper but are assessed in the country of destination.
Speaking in very general terms, you can expect those import duties to range from 6% to 8% for a motorcycle, while the VAT will range from 15% to 20%. It should be noted that most countries have a much lower VAT (around 5% to 8%) for bikes that are more than 25 years past the manufacturing date.
Required Documents
To ensure that your shipment doesn’t experience any unnecessary delays, you must have all the required paperwork. Though this too can be different from country to country, most carriers will require the documents listed below. It is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced shipper to ensure that you have everything necessary for the specific country you’re transporting to.
- Title or Manufacturers Certificate
- Photo ID
- Certificate of release if a lien or loan is involved
- Proof of ownership or bill of sale
- Proof of insurance
- Keys
- Power of Attorney (If applicable)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Secondary Resources For International Motorcycle Shipping
World’s Best Motorcycle Rides - An article from CNN.com that details 10 of the best motorcycle rides in the world. From exotic bike trips through Morocco to Australia’s Shipwreck Coast and California’s Pacific Coast Highway, there’s something for everyone in this informative piece.
Motorcycle Rides, Rallies & Events - A listing of motorcycle events from all over the world. You can search events by date or use the interactive map to find motorcycle rides and rallies in different countries around the world.
Related Information
- How much will state to state shipping of your bike cost you?
- Quotes calculator - get the quotes of motorcycle shippers
- I need my motorcycle shipped
- Worldwide motorcycle shipping
- Transporting motorcycle by plane
Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to ship a motorcycle to its final destination without issue, then you must prepare it for international motorcycle transport. Before the carrier arrives to load your motorcycle, we recommend that you:
- Clean Your Bike
The first step to preparing your motorcycle for international motorcycle transport is to thoroughly clean it. Make sure to wash away dust and debris. This will make it easier for you to detect any damage or imperfections on your dirt bike. Plus, your bike will be spotless and ready to ride when it arrives at your new home.
- Remove Any Detachable Parts
Your motorcycle is about to travel thousands of miles in the back of a crate or shared trailer. While our international motorcycle shippers are careful to take great care of your bike, it is still going to endure a few bumps along the way.
That is why you should remove any detachable components like windshields or raised seatbacks. If they become dislodged during transit, they could damage your bike.
- Adjust Fuel Levels
Shipping a motorcycle with a full tank of gas can be dangerous for auto transport companies. In addition, it adds to the overall weight of your bike, which will increase motorcycle shipping costs. That is why your gas tank should only have about a quarter full when it is picked up.
- Check Tire Pressure
Your motorcycle’s tires need to be properly inflated before it is shipped. Otherwise, your motorcycle might lean or tip over while in transit. Check that both tires are retaining air and are inflated to manufacturer specifications.
- Repair Any Leaks
Oil or other fluid leaks can cause quite a mess during transit. This fluid could get on other people’s property, as well. If you know that your motorcycle is leaking fluids, make any necessary repairs before booking international motorcycle transport services.
If you are unable to make repairs, notify the carrier so that they can take extra precautions to guard against leaks.
- Document Your Bike’s Current Condition
The final step to prepare your motorcycle for transit is to document its current condition. Note any damages and take photographs of your motorcycle from all angles.
When your bike arrives at its final destination, use these photographs as a benchmark to inspect it for new damage. If you find any concerns, be sure to contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company so that we can connect you with our insurance team.
Many of A-1 Auto Transport’s clients are unable to drop their motorcycles off at the port. If that is the case in your situation, we can arrange door-to-door transit. A carrier will arrive at your home and load your bike. They will deliver it to the nearest port for international motorcycle transport services.
Yes, The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company works with world-class international motorcycle shippers that offer a full suite of transport solutions. Shipping your motorcycle internationally involves both ground and air freight or ocean transit. We offer RoRo, shared container, and enclosed shipping options via ocean freight. If you need your bike in a hurry, you can opt for air freight.
RoRo means roll-on/roll-off shipping. Your bike will be driven onto the ship and parked in an enclosed container. It will be strapped down and secured so that it does not move during transit. When the ship arrives at the next port, your motorcycle will be driven off the ship.
RoRo shipping is cost-effective and allows for reliable arrival dates. However, sometimes delays occur on occasion due to the complexity of international freight.
Shared container motorcycle shipping is the most affordable way to ship your bike overseas. When you schedule your pickup, our carrier will load your bike into a container with other motorcycles.
This container is stored in a warehouse until it is filled to capacity. Once enough motorcycles have been loaded into the container, they will all be shipped.
Although cost-effective, shared container motorcycle shipping is not very reliable in terms of the pickup date. It could take a few weeks for the shared container to get full. As a result, we do not recommend this option if you need to get your motorcycle delivered fast.
Enclosed freight offers the most protection for your ride. If you cannot take your motorcycle to the port yourself, one of our carriers can pick it up from your residence. They will load it into an enclosed trailer that is being hauled by an air ride truck.
The carrier will deliver it to the nearest port so that it can be loaded onto a ship and transported to your new home.
The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company can facilitate the shipping of a variety of other vehicles, including trikes along with the following:
- Classic motorcycles
- Quads and ATVs
- Off-road buggies
- Snowmobiles
- Jet skis
If you need any vehicle shipped overseas, A-1 Auto Transport and our partner carriers can make it happen. Reach out to our sales team and let them find the perfect international shipping solutions to meet your needs.
The average cost of transporting your motorcycle overseas varies depending on several factors, including:
- Distance
The further that your dirt bike is traveling, the more expensive the motorcycle shipment. Most motorcycle shipping companies charge per mile for shipping during the ground portion of the transit.
- Weight
Carriers will also set rates based on the weight and dimensions of your motorcycle. The larger and heavier your bike, the more space it consumes. As a result, your rates will increase.
- Shipping Method
Ocean freight is more affordable than air freight, especially if you opt for shared container transit. When you work with The A-1 Motorcycle Transport Company, we will discuss all of the available options so that you can choose the most suitable method.
- Deadlines
Many of our carriers offer express international motorcycle shipping services. However, these services cost a premium. If you need your motorcycle shipped in a hurry, you might want to select a more comprehensive payment package.
- Pickup Method
Dropping your motorcycle off directly at the port can reduce shipping costs. If you need door-to-door international shipping, then we will need to also arrange ground transport. This extra process increases the cost to ship, but it can be incredibly convenient for you.
The two primary freight options for overseas delivery are air freight and ocean freight. Air freight is the fastest method, but ocean freight is more affordable.
If you want to ship a motorcycle to Mexico or Canada, for instance, the entire trip can be handled via ground transportation.
By far, the cheapest way to transport your motorcycle overseas is via shared container shipping. If your goal is to maximize savings, opt for shared container shipping during the fall or winter months. Many clients ship their products in the summer to avoid weather-related delays, which escalates the demand for our services.
Terminal-to-terminal motorcycle transport involves taking your motorcycle directly to a port and picking it up at the destination. Terminal-to-terminal shipping usually involves RoRo loading. This method is efficient and affordable. Often, terminal-to-terminal shipping is available for customers who want specific international motorcycle transportation packages.
Door-to-door shipping maximizes convenience, but it costs a bit more than the terminal option. We will arrange for a carrier to meet you at your residence and load up your motorcycle. They will then deliver it to the port and load it onto the ship or air freight.
When your motorcycle arrives at your new country of residence, the carrier will put it on a trailer then take it directly to your home. All you have to do is sign the necessary documents at pick-up and drop-off.
Yes, A-1 Auto Transport or our carrier will contact you approximately 12 to 24 hours before your scheduled loading time. Due to the nature of motorcycle shipping, we will be unable to provide you with a precise arrival time. Instead, we will advise you of the projected pickup window, which is usually about four hours.
If the carrier experiences any traffic or weather-related delays, we will reach out to notify you as soon as possible. While these delays are rare, they can happen.
With the help of The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company, you can have your motorcycle shipped virtually anywhere. We have partners that serve multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and even Australia.
If you need a safe and reliable international motorcycle shipping service, contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company.
If you are using door-to-door shipping, you must be present at the time of delivery. You will need to inspect your motorcycle for damage and sign receiving paperwork.
However, if you are using terminal-to-terminal shipping, you do not need to respond immediately. A-1 Auto Transport can arrange for your motorcycle to be stored on-site if you cannot retrieve it right away.
If you are using door-to-door shipping, then you must be present at the time of delivery. You will need to inspect your motorcycle for damage and sign receiving paperwork.
However, if you are using terminal-to-terminal shipping, you do not need to respond immediately. A-1 Auto Transport can arrange for your motorcycle to be stored on-site if you cannot retrieve it right away.
When you partner with A-1 Auto Transport, we will do our best to accommodate your chosen pick-up date and time. However, we are not always able to do so. The longer you wait to arrange your motorcycle shipping, the more difficult it will be to provide you with your preferred shipping date.
With that being said, we work with a variety of carriers that can handle last-minute international shipping requests. We can usually arrange pick-up within three days of your preferred date.
The sooner the better. If you want to increase the odds of getting your preferred motorcycle shipping date and time, schedule your international shipping about a month in advance. Shipping your bike overseas involves a lot of moving parts and is a complex undertaking, so it’s best to get started early.
As you might expect, shipping your motorcycle overseas takes longer than domestic transit. Carriers must adhere to strict customs and import regulations on both the departure and arrival ports.
The following factors influence how long it takes your motorcycle to arrive:
- Destination
Shipping your motorcycle to a country such as Mexico or Canada is more efficient than overseas transit. Since these nations share borders with the United States, the entire trip can be handled via ground transit.
On the other hand, transporting your motorcycle to somewhere like England requires either ocean or air freight.
- Shipping Method
Air freight will drastically reduce international shipping time. Motorcycles shipped via airplane typically arrive within a few days to a week. However, this method is more expensive.
Ocean freight can take anywhere from a week to a month. A single delay can result in the ship being held up at a checkpoint for a week or more. When we’re providing customers with estimated delivery dates, we typically give them a broad window to accommodate these potential delays for 100% customer satisfaction.
- Type of Service
If you live near a port and can deliver your motorcycle directly to the carrier, you can reduce overall transit time. However, if the carrier has to transport your bike via trailer, the motorcycle shipping time will increase.
- Weather Conditions
Summer is the most popular time to transport motorcycles internationally. The warm weather reduces the chances of delays but could escalate motorcycle shipping prices. If you wait until the cooler months, shipping rates could be lowered. At the same time, you could also increase the risk of prolonged transit times.
- Distance
Distance traveled is the biggest factor that impacts how long your motorcycle will take to arrive. Many carriers charge by the mile, but they decrease the per-mile rate as distance increases.
For instance, the per-mile rate for a 1,500-mile trip will be higher than the rate for a 2,500-mile trip.
Yes, crating your motorcycle is an extremely important step when you’re trying to prepare for international shipping. If your motorcycle is pre-crated when the carrier arrives, the loading process will be much more efficient. In addition, crating your own motorcycle will reduce the overall cost.
If you're unsure about crating your own motorcycle, our carriers can help. They will make sure that your bike is crated properly and safe during the entire international journey.
We recommend that motorcycles be crated, especially if they are rare or extremely high-value bikes. Ask about full service crating when you’re speaking with our international shipping sales team.
If you are a dealer that needs to transport multiple motorcycles overseas, you may be eligible for discounts. The best way to find out is to contact the A-1 Auto Transport sales team.
We will discuss your specific shipping needs and find out whether any of our partner motorcycle shipping companies offer reduced rates for bulk discounts. In order to answer this question accurately, we will need to know where your bikes are being transported from and how many you need to transport.
As most international shipping companies do, A-1 Auto Transport honors pre-set international motorcycle transport quotes until the end of the business day.
Transporting your bike to a different country is complex and requires precise logistical planning. Since a number of variables are subject to change daily, we cannot guarantee prices for multiple days.
However, we can provide you with a new quote if you do not reserve your shipping services before the end of the business day.
Yes, our partner carriers offer simple and accurate tracking services for shipping your motorcycle overseas. You can quickly locate your vehicle by inputting some basic information about your shipment. This gives you peace of mind during the entire international shipping process.
Besides, you can access the satellite location of your motorcycle with any internet-connected device, including a tablet or cell phone.
Yes, your motorcycle is protected during international shipping. A-1 Auto Transport and our carriers are required to provide insurance when shipping items domestically or internationally. However, our coverage may not adequately cover your motorcycle in the event of significant damage or total loss.
For that reason, we recommend purchasing supplemental insurance before transporting your motorcycle overseas. You can acquire this coverage from a dedicated insurance provider.
Your current motorcycle insurance company may also offer supplemental coverage. Make sure to look into this coverage before your motorcycle is picked up for shipping.
Unfortunately, damage can occasionally occur when shipping your motorcycle overseas. If it does, make sure to contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company immediately. We will document the incident and refer you to our insurance company. Our provider will guide you through the claims filing process.
In addition, you need to contact your insurance provider if you purchased supplemental coverage. They will also need to document the incident and file a claim.
If you photographed your motorcycle before it was shipped, make sure to include those pictures with your claim. This can expedite the process and help you get the funds you need to repair your bike.
Yes, A-1 Auto Transport can facilitate international shipping even if your motorcycle does not currently run. However, it is important that you let us know when booking your shipping services. We will need to pass this information onto the carrier so that they can bring the appropriate loading equipment with them.
If they are unaware that your motorcycle is not drivable, then they may need to reschedule the pick-up.
You cannot transport loose or spare parts with your motorcycle. Loose parts pose a danger to the carrier and can cause damage to your motorcycle. These items can also damage other people’s property or impose fines on the motorcycle transport company.
Before your bike is loaded, check to make sure that all saddlebags and other storage compartments are empty. In addition, remove any aftermarket parts that are not securely attached to the motorcycle.
The only way to find out is to contact A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company. Our motorcycle shipping companies offer a variety of cost-saving opportunities, including discounts for:
- Veterans
- Students
- Government employees
- Dealers
- Healthcare professionals
- Seniors
In addition to the above discounts, many international motorcycle shipping companies offer seasonal rates and bulk shipping savings opportunities. When you reach out to our team, make sure to ask them about these potential discounts.
When you arrange international motorcycle shipping, A-1 Auto Transport will provide you with projected arrival date. For instance, we may advise that your motorcycle will arrive at its destination within 7 to 24 days. If your motorcycle did not arrive after day 7, then you have no cause for concern. Check the real-time tracking information or contact us for a status update.
However, if your motorcycle has not arrived by the 24th day, then it may have experienced delays, including:
- Severe Weather
Severe weather can delay ground and ocean transit. These types of incidents are more common during the winter months.
- Permit Issues
Although rare, permit issues with the ocean vessel or ground carrier can occur. If such incidences arise, the carrier may not be granted access to the port until the permit concern is resolved.
- Port Holds
International transport regulations vary from country to country. If your motorcycle is being imported to a nation with extremely strict laws, the carrier may be placed under a hold when it arrives. Your motorcycle cannot be offloaded until the hold is lifted, which could take a week or more.
Whenever a delay happens, A-1 Auto Transport will notify you as soon as possible. We strive to maintain open lines of communication for 100% customer satisfaction.
Yes, you can ship as many motorcycles as you want. Many of A-1 Auto Transport’s clients need to ship more than one motorcycle or other pieces of machinery simultaneously.
If you own a motorcycle and a car, for instance, we can arrange to ship for both. We are your one-stop-shop for reliable international shipping solutions.
A-1 Auto Transport has been involved in the international shipping industry for decades. During that time, we have formed partnerships with many companies that have a great reputation for providing fast, safe, and reliable shipping services.
We have an unwavering commitment to our clients and only work with the best carriers that share our core values and dedication to excellence. When you partner with us for your international motorcycle shipping needs, you can rest assured that you will get exceptional service.
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