- Motorcycle Transport Services - How to Safely Ship Your Bike
- Motorcycle Transport Costs and Quotes
- Delivery Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Motorcycle Examples
- Why Use a Motorcycle Shippers to Ship Your Bike? What Are The Benefits To Motorcycle Riders?
- Types of Motorcycle Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Open-Air Transport
- Door-to-Door Shipping
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
- Crated Shipping
- Your Shipping Options To Ship Motorcycles Video
- Preparing For Your Motorcycle Shippers
- Other Motorcycle Transport Companies' Considerations to Take Into Account
- Related Information And Helpful Tips
- Another option for motorcycle shipping and transport - uShip

Motorcycle Transport Services - How to Safely Ship Your Bike
Motorcycle transport refers to the transportation of motorcycles from one location to another. The process can be done using various methods, such as shipping, towing, or carrying the motorcycle in a truck or trailer. Professional motorcycle transport services are available for those who prefer professional handling and care during the transportation process.
Over 80% of motorcycle owners in the United States use motorcycle transport services at least once in their lifetime. As a reliable leader in the auto shipping industry, we can cater to almost any motorcycle shipping request, whether you need your motorcycle transported across the state, country, or even internationally. All motorcycle shipping quotes include real-time satellite tracking nationwide and insurance coverage while your vehicle is in our care. We are a full-service auto transporter licensed, bonded, and insured, offering you the utmost peace of mind at the most reasonable price.
To get an instant quote for shipping your motorcycle, simply fill out the form at the top of the page and let the industry's top auto transport professionals work for you to get you the best shipping rate. Although we don't operate during normal business hours, our exceptional customer service goes above and beyond. You can call us from the comfort of your home 24 hours a day at 1-888-230-9116 to speak to our excellent customer service and explore your motorcycle about your haulage.
Motorcycle Transport Costs and Quotes
Our services cater to a diverse range of motorcyclists, including seasoned racers, first-time bike shippers, and Harley-Davidson enthusiasts. We understand the trust you place in us by choosing our services, and we strive to earn that trust by offering the most affordable and reliable shipping options. We have the expertise to ship bikes of all models and sizes. Our reviews speak for themselves, highlighting our exceptional customer service.
Delivery Shipping Cost & Time To Ship Your Motorcycle Examples
Shipping To/From | Cost | Distance | Transit Days |
---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles to Las Vegas, NV | $650 | 270 miles | 2-4 days |
Chicago, IL to Memphis, TN | $680 | 530 miles | 2-4 days |
Atlanta, GA to Detroit, MI | $680 | 725 miles | 3-5 days |
San Diego, CA to Dallas, TX | $680 | 1360 miles | 4-6 days |
Phoenix, AZ, to Seattle, WA | $680 | 1425 miles | 4-6 days |
Houston, TX to New York, NY | $730 | 1630 miles | 5-7 days |
Miami, FL to Denver, CO | $750 | 2065 miles | 6-8 days |
Portland, OR to Memphis, TN | $750 | 2245 miles | 6-8 days |
Boston, MA to Phoenix, AZ | $780 | 2650 miles | 7-9 days |
San Jose, CA to Miami, FL | $780 | 3070 miles | 7-9 days |
- *Prices and times are estimated. They can vary depending on the season and what type of motorcycle you are shipping.
- *$7000 liability insurance coverage is included per vehicle.
- *Additional insurance coverage is available.
- *Call us for specific pick-up and delivery date requests.

Why Use a Motorcycle Shippers to Ship Your Bike? What Are The Benefits To Motorcycle Riders?
Our customers choose our products for various reasons. Some of them need to buy or sell a bike and require it to be delivered to their final destination. Others are planning a road trip or attending a rally in a different country or state. However, what all our customers have in common is that they expect their shipment to be delivered safely and in perfect condition to ensure 100% customer satisfaction. Additionally, they want to be assured that their bike is in safe hands.
Our company provides several service options to cater to the shipping needs of our Harley-Davidson enthusiasts who ride on two wheels. The style is simple. Vehicles can be shipped on a semi-transport truck, flatbed, or trailer pulled behind another car. We also offer enclosed trailers and door-to-door shipping options for motorcycles. So, if you are a rider looking to move your bike, we're at your service.
Types of Motorcycle Transport
When transporting a motorcycle, you should consider several motorcycle carrier options from the best company to determine which method is best for you. Here are some of the options available from a motorcycle mover:
- Enclosed motorcycle moving
- Open-air motorcycle transportation
- Door to door
- Terminal to terminal
- Crated motorcycle shipping
- cheap rates

Enclosed Transport
Enclosed motorcycle shipping is the safest and most secure way to move your bike. Using enclosed, reliable auto shipping ensures that your shipment will be protected from the elements and potential storage or transport hazards. In addition, enclosed transport ensures positive customer reviews!

Open-Air Transport
Open-air auto shipping is also an option if you're comfortable slightly exposing your bike to weather and driving conditions. This method typically involves the bike being secured to a flatbed truck or a tow trailer.

Door-to-Door Shipping
Some motorcycle transport companies offer door-to-door service, picking up the motorcycle from the owner's location and delivering it to the desired destination. It is precisely what it sounds like.

Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping
This auto-shipping method is more cost-effective, but it can mean picking up your bike at a depot which is not always convenient, depending on your proximity to the terminal.

Crated Shipping
Crated shipping involves securing your bike to a pallet and loading it onto a truck in a wooden crate. This is a popular option, but it's essential to remember that crated motorcycle shipping typically requires extra preparation. For example, all fluids need to be drained; the battery needs to be disconnected, and, in some cases, you may require the removal of mirrors and handlebars.
Your Shipping Options To Ship Motorcycles Video
Preparing For Your Motorcycle Shippers
Whatever option you choose, it is essential to ensure that your bike is ready to be shipped when it's time. This shortlist covers the basics:
- Clean the bike of dirt and deposits
- Remove any accessories or loose items
- Disable the alarm system if it has one before motorcycle shipping
- Check fluids, tire pressure, and battery before motorcycle shipping
- Gas reading should not be above 1/4 tank before shipping
- Inspect and document any pre-existing damage for your records (photos recommended)
Other Motorcycle Transport Companies' Considerations to Take Into Account
We are a Smart Way Partner with the Environmental Protection Agency, with whom we work to reduce harmful emissions in the auto shipping industry. Our Ship company is also Verify Sign Secured, which ensures that all online communications through our online platform are securely encrypted for the privacy of our customers.
While the various options may seem complicated at first glance, we strive to make the shippingprocess as simple as possible. We aim to keep you aware of all the options available and deliver top-notch performance of trusted and affordable service. Whether shipping your standard, off-road, or dual-purpose bike, we have a motorbike transport services option that will work for you! To get started, fill out the form at the top of the page for a free quote today!
Call 1-888-230-9116 or fill out the form at the top of the page to get a FREE quote today!
Related Information And Helpful Tips
- How much will shipping across the country cost you?
- Create and ship
- Enclosed shipping
- Shipping across country
- Shipping brokers
- Shipping by train
- Seasonal shipping discounts
- Door-to-door services
- Military Discount
- Shipping Sturgis Bike Week
- Shipping Overseas
- Harley Davidson transportation
- Trike shipping
- Shipping liability insurance
- The cost of shipping explained
- How long will my shipment take?
- How to keep your bike safe during transit
- What happens if my bike is damaged during the shipping process
- What's the difference between international and domestic shipping
- What's the most popular way to ship?
Another option for motorcycle shipping and transport - uShip
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Shipping
How Long Does Motorcycle Transport Take?
Generally, the answer depends on how far you're shipping your motorcycle. For example, going from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, might take two to four days, while shipping your motorcycle across the country averages about two weeks.
There are options available for owners who need higher priority service, so contact A-1 Auto Transport for a quote to get a more specific timeframe for your move.
How Much Does It Cost to Transport a Motorcycle?
Like with any vehicle shipping, several variables determine the cost of delivery. These include the following:
Distance
Generally, the farther you ship, the more expensive it will be.
Weight
Heavier motorbikes will usually cost more to ship since most trucks have a limited weight capacity.
Destination
Delivering to a major city will likely cost you less than shipping it to a location that's more out of the way.
Size
While weight is usually the determining factor, giant bikes or ones with unusual dimensions might be more challenging to handle, making transport more expensive.
Season
The season can also affect the price. There are usually fewer cars during the winter, meaning there's less competition and lower prices. However, winter weather can potentially delay your shipment.
Summer avoids most weather delays, but more motorbike enthusiasts are likely to be shipping a motorbike, so you may pay more for your shipment.
Delivery
A-1 Auto Transport helps owners arrange terminal-to-terminal and door-to-door delivery. While door-to-door service is more convenient , delivering your motorbike to a terminal costs less, although you'll have to arrange a time and method to pick it up from there.
Timeline
If you cannot pick up your motorbike when it arrives, or you need to store it for a short period before you schedule a pickup, there will usually be an additional fee.

Where Can I Get the Cheapest Motorcyle Transport Quotes?
If you're looking for the most affordable way to ship your bike and motorcycle shipping rate, you have a few motorcycle car shipping companies to choose from. First, have your motorcycle shipped from terminal to terminal. Then, choose the open transport method. While these transport companies will expose your bike to the elements, open-air carriers are less expensive than enclosed carriers.
What is Terminal-to-Terminal Service?
While you can have your motorcycle picked up and dropped off at your home or other location, it's often cheaper to drop it off at a central motorcycle shipping terminal instead.
When you drop off your bike with the motorcycle shipping company, it will be loaded onto the motorcycle transport truck there, along with several other bikes, saving time and money for retrieving motorcycles from multiple locations.
Delivery works the same but in reverse. Your motorcycle will be shipped to an arrival terminal near your destination, where it will be unloaded, waiting for the motorcycle riders to come to pick it up.
While this is cheaper, it also means you'll have to figure out how to get to the terminal to retrieve your bike from the motorcycle shipping company.
What is the Safest Way to Ship a motorbike?
It's natural to want your bike to arrive at your destination in the exact condition you shipped it in, especially if you want to ship a motorbike, vintage, exotic, or classic car. However, if you're looking to protect your bike, you should choose one of the two options:
Enclosed Transport
Enclosed motorcycle transport will load your bike into a motorbike shipper with rigid walls and a ceiling. This protects your motorbike against the elements, like snow, rain, and hail, and keeps it from being damaged by road debris that may kick up along the way while having your motorbike delivered.
Crated Transport
If you're especially concerned, you can have your bike loaded onto a pallet and crated up, then loaded onto a truck. While this option adds time and expense, it's the surest way to ensure that your motorbike arrives unharmed.

How Do I Choose a Trailer?
Choosing either an open trailer or enclosed auto shipment to transport your motorcycle is mostly about balancing how much protection your bike needs against the cost of vehicle shipping. The more security you add, the less likely your motorcycle will be damaged. However, it also means you'll spend more on transporting your motorcycle.
Open-air trailers are usually flatbed trucks , most companies will have this option. They're the most cost-effective transport option since they can accommodate more motorcycles and don't necessarily require lift gates. However, they do leave your bike exposed to the elements, including road debris.
An enclosed trailer is a semi-truck with hard shells covering the truck bed. While they offer protection against damage during transit, they also tend to cost more since they require more equipment on the truck.
Because flatbed trucks are less expensive, there are usually fewer enclosed trailers on the road. As a result, competition can drive up the cost of shipping.
What Areas Can Be Shipped to?
Your motorcycle can be picked up and shipped almost anywhere, including local, state-to-state, and international destinations. Many residential areas with narrow streets are typically not a problem regarding pickup and delivery. However, there are some things to keep in mind when you're planning your shipment.
While a door-to-door bike shipper is available, the truck may have difficulty reaching you if your pickup location is in a tight space. If that's the case, they'll contact you about arranging an alternate location for pickup.
Shipping overseas involves more complications. Depending on where you ship your precious motorcycle, you will need to abide by their import laws. In addition, all paperwork and taxes must be completed before you ship your bike. We'll help to ensure you know what documents and taxes you'll need to take care of.
Do I Need to be Present When the Truck Driver Arrives to Pick Up My Motorbike?
You or a designated representative must be there when your motorcycle is picked up. When your driver arrives, you will be given a bill of lading that states the condition of the bike and the final destination. You or a designated representative will need to sign the paper.
If you can't attend, let us know as soon as possible who will be there instead so we can give this information to the driver.
While we're happy to work with you to make pickup and delivery as smooth as possible, we can only accept or release vehicles to people with prior authorization.
Can I Choose the Time and Date for Pickup and Delivery?
When you request a date for pickup, we will do our best to make that happen. However, if we cannot accommodate your request, we will arrange for a date as close as possible, usually within two to three days.
It's harder to predict when your bike will be delivered, however. We will give you a window, but the actual date may change based on factors we can't control, including weather, traffic, and limits on driving time enforced by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT caps drivers at 500 miles per day and limits the number of days a driver can work in a row.
However, we offer door-to-door customers the option to guarantee a delivery date for a small additional fee. So, let us know that you'd like to be guaranteed a specific delivery date when requesting motorcycle shipping quotes.
How Far in Advance Should I Book Motorcyle Transport Services?
Please don't wait too long to book your motorcycle shipping services at our great transport company. The rule is generally the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find the dates you need (and usually at a lower price). However, if you wait until too close to when you want to move a motorcycle, you may find that there are no motorcycle shipping companies available.
How Do I Prepare My Motorcycle for Transport?
You need to take several steps to prepare for motorcycle shipping, all of which help ensure that your bike arrives undamaged while protecting the equipment. Here are the basic steps you should take:
- Remove any personal belongings from the bike
- Completely drain all of the fluids from your bike
- You can leave your gas tank up to ¼ full
- Disable any alarm systems on your bike
- Disconnect your motorcycle's battery
- Clean your bike before shipment, including excess debris, grime, and grease
- If you're using a crate, remove the handlebars and other parts that stick out
- Please take pictures of your motorcycle to document its condition.
- Make sure your bike is mechanically sound before loading it
While all of these steps may sound like a lot, they're intended to protect both your bike and the bike carrier, helping ensure a smooth, easy, damage-free trip.
How Do I Crate My Bike?
You have two options: You can create your motorcycle yourself, or you can leave it to your motorcycle hauling companies. While doing the work yourself may save you some money, transport professionals likely have more experience in crating bikes for shipment. They can secure your bike more effectively.
When crating your motorcycle, it will first be attached to a wooden pallet or "skid." Once it's securely fastened, it will be enclosed entirely within a crate. The crate is then loaded into either a carrier or an international shipping container, where it's secured in place a second time by the motorcycle shipping company, ensuring it stays in place during the journey.
Can I Pay Companies to Crate My Motorbike for Me?
The best motorcycle shippers will provide crating services for your motorcycle, although it will usually increase your motorcycle shipping costs.
Are There Discounts for Dealers?
We work with a number of the best motorcycle shipping companies, all of whom have their promotions and discounts. Unfortunately , while there is a good chance that dealers may be eligible for discounts (especially for bulk transfers), we can't guarantee that they will be available.
You can request a quote to know if you qualify for any discounts, including discounts for dealers, military personnel, students, or seniors.
How Long is My Costing Good for?
Like most other companies, our quote is typically good through the end of the business day. However, our shipping organization reserves the right to change the quote if we determine that you require additional motorcycle transport services not included in the original quote.
Because the factors determining a shipping rate change quickly.

How Can I Track the Progress of My Motorcyle During Transport?
Satellite tracking of your shipment is available on almost all freight. This means you can get real-time shipment details about where your bike is, using any internet-capable device, including computers, phones, and tablets, via your motorcycle shipper.
Who Offers Insurance Coverage for My Motorcylce During Transport?
Yes, your bike will be covered under our insurance policy. All reliable companies are required by law to have insurance covering their shipments, which means that your bike will be covered in the rare event that it becomes damaged during shipment.
If you do notice some damage that wasn't there before, contact us immediately so we can start the insurance claim process. We'll document the claim, then send it to our insurance company, which will give you more shipment details on how you can get your motorcycle repaired or replaced.
Be aware, though, that most companies cover $7,000 worth per vehicle. If you feel you need additional insurance coverage, you can purchase supplemental insurance from your provider.
Can I Send Extra Parts or Other Items Along with Delivery?
Unfortunately, no. The only thing you can move is the bike itself. Everything else must travel separately, including spare parts, loose and unsecured parts, paperwork, boxes, and keys.
You can take your helmet, but only if it's securely fastened to your motorcycle. This prevents any parts from getting lost during transport, especially since our insurance does not cover these parts.
How Can I Get a Discount?
The only way to know if you can receive a discount is to ask! Contact our team of experts to see whether you qualify for any discounts or promotional deals from one of our mot. Among the more common discounts are those for:
- Seniors
- Students
- Military personnel
- Dealers
- Seasonal discounts
Not all of our discounts are available at all times, so make sure to contact us to find out how much you can save on transporting your motorcycle.
How Does Transporting Motorcycles Enclosed Shipping Process Work?
If you're looking to keep your bike out of the elements but don't feel that you need the protection of crating, then an enclosed trailer is likely the best solution for you.
Unlike open-air motorcycle shippers, which are usually flatbed trucks, a fully enclosed carrier is covered on all sides by either hard or soft material, offering protection against debris and weather.
Shipping a motorcycle in a fully enclosed trailer is more expensive than open-air transport. Still, it is usually much cheaper to haul bikes with this method than crating, making it an excellent midpoint when you want to provide affordable protection for your bike.
It Hasn’t Been Delivered Yet. Why Not?
While we will provide you with a delivery window, the variables that go into delivering your bike can sometimes cause delays. Delays are occasionally inevitable, whether it's a significant traffic jam or a major snowstorm. We'll do our best to let you know when they occur.
When delays do occur, we'll contact you as soon as possible so that you can adjust your schedule to find a delivery time that works for you. And with our satellite tracking, you can also keep an eye on your shipment, too.
Can I Move More than One at a Time?
Absolutely! It's common for motorcycle shipping companies to ship multiple motorcycles for one customer. Whether you're a dealer or a collector, we'll work with you to ensure that your motorcycles are transported safely and quickly. Ask about any possible discounts, including bulk motorcycle shipping costs.
Will A-1 Let Me Know When They’re Coming to Pick Up or Drop Off My Motorbike?
You should receive word from your carrier 12 to 24 normal business hours before your expected pickup or motorcycle delivery date. While we can't give you an exact time of day, we can provide you with a window of time in which you can expect your driver to arrive.
If any problems with the schedule arise , we'll contact you to schedule an updated motorcycle delivery or pickup time.
Who Will Actually Be Shipping My Motorcycle?
A-1 Auto Transport works with the best motorcycle shipping companies around the country, and it's our mission to ensure that your motorcycle arrives safely without cutting any corners. There's a reason our core values are expertise, authority, and transparency. We ensure that all of our partners also live up to these standards. , as well.
We had a single tow truck when we started A-1 Auto Transport in 1988. A little more than 20 years later, we're now one of the nation's largest logistics and motorcycle shipping companies, serving local, interstate, and international customers.
When you partner with A-1 Auto Transport, you can rest assured that your motorcycle is in the right hands.
Will You Move My Trike?
Yes, we will! Shipping a trike is much like shipping a motorcycle, although they usually weigh more and have much bulkier dimensions. That's why shipping a trike is usually more expensive than shipping a motorcycle. However, with the more stable base, transporting a trike is much safer.
When you're looking for a carrier to ship your trike, be sure to let us know when you're requesting your quote so you make sure you get the most accurate quote possible.
How Do I Pay?
We want the process to be as stress-free as possible. That's why we offer several different payment methods for our customers, giving you the flexibility to pay in whatever is most convenient .

Can You Move The Vehicle If It Doesn’t Run?
In general, as long as your motorcycle rolls, we can ship it. At the same time, your bike should be transported as is if the condition is noted on the paperwork.
However, you must be sure that it isn't leaking any fluids and has been cleaned so that we can take note of any damage before it's hauled using loading equipment onto the carrier.
Do You Take Vintage/Classic/Exotic Motorbikes?
Yes, we do! We work with motorcycle shippers specializing in transporting high-value motorcycles, including classic makes, exotic varieties, and other bikes that may have more sentimental value.
You should make sure of a few things when you're shipping a motorcycle. First, you'll want to be sure your bike is fully protected. Since you can choose either an open trailer or an enclosed carrier, you'll probably want to ship your motorcycle in a fully enclosed carrier to protect it from weather and road debris. For an added layer of protection, you can even have your bike shipped in a crate.
Another benefit of these motorcycle transport options is that it limits the number of interested onlookers who might take an interest in your motorcycle. While theft from a carrier is quite rare, enclosed and crate shipping eliminate the possibility that any passerby might want to either steal or vandalize your bike.
Finally, you will probably want to choose door-to-door service. While this is more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping, it also means that your bike will be both picked up and delivered right in front of you. That way, you can inspect your bike when it comes off the truck to ensure it hasn't sustained any damage.
Will You Take to Online Buyers?
Shipping a motorcycle using third parties after online sales or auctions is more common nowadays. When you purchase a bike from an auction or an online seller, your best bet is to arrange delivery yourself.
Online dealers and auction sites may offer to set up delivery for you, but they will likely charge you a premium for your service, which is often rolled into the price of your vehicle.
Instead, contact A-1 Auto Transport, and we'll help you set up fast, affordable delivery on your new purchase.
Do Most Movers Have a Lot of Paperwork?
When shipping businesses pick up your motorcycle, they usually give you a bill of lading and a copy of your liability insurance coverage.
If you cannot be at pickup or delivery, your authorized representative may need an authorization form. In addition, some localities require documents for lienholders, as well as photo IDs and title and registration.
Why Should I Move My Bike Instead of Driving It?
There are many reasons motorcycle owners may choose to ship their bikes instead of driving them to their destinations on their own. These include:
- To avoid putting excess miles on your motorcycle
- You're moving and need to transport your car, too
- You don't have the time to drive it yourself
- To avoid the danger of a long trip on a motorcycle
- Your bike isn't currently running
- You're presently restoring a bike, and it needs more work
- To prevent damage during the journey
- You're transporting a classic or vintage bike to a bike show
These are only a few of the reasons owners may choose to transport their bikes on a carrier. No matter your reason , A-1 Auto Transport has the experience of getting your bike where you need it, working on getting it delivered as quickly and safely as possible.
What is motorcycle shipping?
Motorcycle shipping refers to the process of transporting a motorcycle from one location to another using specialized shipping services. This can be done for various reasons, such as selling or buying a motorcycle, relocating to a new place, or participating in motorcycle events in different regions or countries.
Motorcycle shipping services might use trucks, ships, or even planes, depending on the distance and the service requested. These companies often provide specialized equipment and methods to ensure the safe transport of the motorcycle, such as secured pallets, crates, or strapping systems to prevent movement and potential damage during transit. Depending on the service, motorcycles can be shipped domestically or internationally.
How does motorcycle shipping differ from regular vehicle shipping?
Motorcycle shipping differs from regular vehicle shipping primarily in terms of the equipment and methods used. Motorcycles are smaller and lighter than cars, so they often require specialized crates or pallets for safe transport. Additionally, due to their design, motorcycles can be more susceptible to damage during shipping, necessitating extra care in handling and securing them.
Are there any size or weight restrictions for shipping a motorcycle?
Yes, there can be size and weight restrictions for shipping a motorcycle, but these limitations often depend on the shipping company and method chosen. Some companies have specific weight limits or may charge extra for oversized or particularly heavy bikes. Always check with your chosen carrier for any specific requirements.
Can you ship a motorcycle internationally?
Yes, you can ship a motorcycle internationally. However, this involves more paperwork, customs clearances, and potentially additional fees compared to domestic shipping. Ensure you're aware of the import and export regulations of the involved countries and be prepared for potential duties or taxes upon arrival.
Can I track my motorcycle while it's being shipped?
Most modern shipping companies offer tracking services for shipments, including motorcycles. When you ship your motorcycle, you should receive a tracking number, allowing you to monitor the progress and location of your bike during its journey.
Can I ship additional items with my motorcycle, like helmets or gear?
It depends on the shipping company. Some may allow you to ship additional items with your motorcycle, often for an extra fee, while others might have restrictions. It's essential to check with the shipping company beforehand and ensure any additional items are packed securely.
What is door-to-door motorcycle shipping?
Door-to-door motorcycle shipping is a service where the shipping company picks up the motorcycle from your specified location (typically your home or place of business) and delivers it directly to the destination address you provide. This service offers convenience as it eliminates the need for you to transport the motorcycle to and from shipping terminals.
How Do I File A Claim if My Motorcyle is Damaged During Transport?
If your motorcycle gets damaged during shipping, you should immediately notify the shipping company. Most reputable shipping companies have insurance policies that cover damage during transport. You will likely need to provide evidence of the damage, such as photos, and may be required to fill out a claim form. Compensation procedures and amounts can vary by company, so it's essential to understand the terms of your agreement and the company's insurance policy beforehand.
What's the difference between open and enclosed motorcycle shipping?
Open motorcycle shipping involves transporting the motorcycle on an open trailer, exposed to the elements. While this method is generally less expensive, it offers less protection for the bike. On the other hand, enclosed motorcycle shipping uses a closed container or truck, providing better protection against weather, road debris, and potential theft. Enclosed shipping is often preferred for high-value or antique motorcycles, though it tends to be more expensive than open shipping.
What documents do i need for motorcycle transport?
Shipping a motorcycle, whether domestically or internationally, requires certain documentation to ensure a smooth process and to comply with regulations. The exact documents may vary depending on the shipping company, country, and specific circumstances, but generally, you can expect to need the following:
Title and Registration: The original title and registration of the motorcycle will verify that you are the rightful owner and have the authority to ship it.
Bill of Sale: If the motorcycle has been recently purchased and hasn't been titled or registered in your name yet, a bill of sale can act as proof of ownership.
Photo Identification: A copy of your driver's license or another form of government-issued ID.
Proof of Insurance: Some shipping companies will want to see proof of insurance for the motorcycle. This ensures that damages, if any, can be claimed.
Shipper's Export Declaration (SED): If you're shipping internationally, the U.S. Census Bureau may require a SED for tracking purposes.
Power of Attorney (POA): Some shippers require a POA to act on your behalf during the shipping process, especially if you're not present to receive the bike at the destination.
Consent to Search: In certain situations, especially for international shipping, you might need to provide written consent for customs or other officials to search the motorcycle.
Customs Declaration: For international shipments, a customs declaration will be needed to provide details about the motorcycle, its value, and its purpose (e.g., personal use, sale, etc.)
Import Duty Receipts: If you're importing the motorcycle into another country, you may need to provide proof that any applicable import duties or taxes have been paid.
Bill of Lading: This is a contract between the owner of the motorcycle and the shipping company. It outlines the terms of the shipping agreement and can be used as a receipt and a document of title.
Inspection Report: Before shipping, the shipping company will often perform an inspection of the motorcycle and detail its current condition. This is crucial for insurance and damage claims.
Other Country-Specific Documents: Depending on the destination country, you may need additional paperwork or certifications to comply with local regulations.
Remember to always check with your chosen shipping company for their specific requirements and also look into the regulations of the destination country if shipping internationally. Proper documentation is crucial for avoiding delays and additional costs.
What should i consider when choosing a motorcycle transport company?
Choosing a reputable motorcycle shipping company is crucial to ensure that your motorcycle arrives safely and in the same condition in which it was sent. Here are some key aspects to consider when selecting a motorcycle shipping company:
Experience and Reputation:
Ensure the company has a track record of successfully shipping motorcycles.
Check for reviews and testimonials from previous customers.
Insurance Coverage:
Ensure they offer adequate insurance coverage in case of damage or loss.
Ask about the terms of the insurance, what it covers, any deductibles, and how claims are handled.
Transport Options:
Do they offer enclosed transport? Enclosed transport provides better protection for your motorcycle.
Can they handle door-to-door shipping, or is it terminal-to-terminal?
Equipment and Handling:
Ensure the company uses proper equipment like specialized pallets or crates.
Check if they use soft straps to avoid scratching the motorcycle.
Price:
Get multiple quotes to compare prices.
Ensure there are no hidden costs.
Delivery Time:
How long will it take for your motorcycle to be delivered?
Do they offer expedited services if needed?
Tracking and Communication:
Can you track the shipment in real-time?
How responsive are they to questions or concerns?
Licensing and Accreditation:
Ensure the company has the necessary licenses and is registered with the Department of Transportation.
Membership in professional organizations, like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), can indicate credibility.
Preparation Guidance:
The company should guide you on how to prepare your motorcycle for shipping, such as draining fluids, disconnecting the battery, or folding in the mirrors.
Contract Clarity:
Thoroughly read and understand the shipping contract.
Ensure you're clear on terms regarding pick-up, delivery, insurance, and any potential additional charges.
Remember, the cheapest option might not always be the best. Prioritize safety, reliability, and reputation over cost. Your motorcycle is a valuable possession, and it's essential to choose a shipping company that treats it with the care it deserves.
What factors affect motorcycle shipping costs?
Motorcycle shipping costs can be influenced by a variety of factors. When obtaining a quote or estimating the cost of shipping a motorcycle, consider the following aspects:
Distance: One of the most significant factors. The further you need to ship the motorcycle, the higher the cost will be.
Pick-up and Delivery Locations:
Urban vs. Rural: Shipping to and from urban areas might be cheaper due to better accessibility and more frequent routes.
Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal: Door-to-door services, where the motorcycle is picked up from your location and delivered to a specific address, are usually more expensive than terminal-to-terminal services.
Transport Type:
Enclosed vs. Open Transport: Enclosed transport provides more protection for the motorcycle but is generally more expensive than open transport.
Shared vs. Exclusive Transport: If the motorcycle shares the transport space with other vehicles (consolidated shipping), it may be cheaper than exclusive transport.
Size and Weight of the Motorcycle: Larger and heavier motorcycles might cost more to ship due to the space they occupy and the effort required to load and unload.
Operational Condition: If the motorcycle isn't running, there might be additional charges because of the special equipment or additional labor required to load and unload.
Time of Year:
Peak Season: Prices can be higher during peak moving seasons (typically summer).
Weather Conditions: Shipping during winter might incur additional costs, especially in regions prone to snow and ice.
Insurance:
Basic insurance is often included in the shipping quote, but if you need additional coverage, it will increase the cost.
Special Requirements: If your motorcycle requires special handling or arrangements, there may be additional fees.
Domestic vs. International:
International shipping will generally be more expensive, considering customs duties, additional paperwork, and longer distances.
Different countries might have varying import taxes and regulations, affecting the cost.
Customs and Duties: For international shipping, customs clearance and duties can add to the cost. The amount will vary depending on the destination country.
Urgency: If you need expedited shipping, it will typically cost more than standard shipping times.
Additional Services: Costs can increase if you opt for additional services, such as storage or packing.
It's always a good idea to obtain quotes from multiple shipping companies to compare prices and services. Make sure to inquire about what each quote includes to avoid unexpected costs and ensure you're comparing apples to apples.