Tips For Shipping Motorcycles Overseas

Tips For Shipping Your Motorcycle Overseas

Motorcycle enthusiasts often want to ride wherever the road may take them. However, when the next road is across the ocean, auto transport is the only option to keep chewing up the road. Shipping a motorcycle overseas not only depends on working with a company knowledgeable about this type of transport, but also a certain level of preparation for the bike owners as well. This is an intricate process, but taking the time to do it right ensures that your bike makes it to its overseas destination with no issues.

There are numerous reasons why you would need auto transport to ship a motorcycle overseas. Perhaps you purchased your bike from a company in another country; or you may be relocating to another corner of the world to explore new roads figuratively and literally. Whatever the reason, hiring a professional shipping company is essential and the first step to successful shipping a motorcycle overseas. People that try to handle the matter on their own run a much greater risk of ruining the bike or causing some unfixable damage before it ever even arrives at the destination. Given the expense put into purchasing and customizing a motorcycle, professional shipping is as much an investment in the maintenance of the bike as it is the price paid for peace of mind.

The company in question should have significant experience with motorcycle transport and educate you on the preparation for shipping your bike overseas. It is important to note that motorcycle auto transport is much different than that of a traditional vehicle. Given the size and composition of a motorcycle, the way it is shipping is an important consideration. Moreover, since motorcycles range in size and type, a customized shipping option is key.

There are some steps that you can take to properly prepare your bike for transport. As is the case with a traditional vehicle, it is important to remove all the extras from your bike prior to shipping it. This include saddle bags, removable mirrors, exterior audio equipment and anything else that can be lost or damaged during shipping. After all, you’ve likely taken steps to customize your bike in a way that makes it your own. The last thing you want is for any of those extras to be lost inadvertently during the shipping process.

While different shipping companies may offer equally unique options, crated shipping is generally optimal for motorcycles, particularly those smaller in size. This is in direct contrast to open shipping, which consists of strapping the bike down to keep in place while it is being transported. This does not guard against exposure to the elements, however, and is the main reason that this form of shipping is not as ideal as crated shipping for bikes.

When choosing an auto transport company, ask about the various options and then choose accordingly. The important thing is to work with a company that provide assurances that your motorcycle will arrive at your overseas destination in good working order. This gives you an opportunity to get it out on the road and enjoying your new destination quickly.