According to Statista, annual motorcycle sales in the United States reach around 581,000 units. With so many bikes in the market, finding your dream bike in the same city, or even the same state, can be pretty hard.
So once you locate your perfect match, chances are that it’ll end up hundreds or even thousands of miles away. Which means when you find it, you’ll have to arrange motorcycle shipping to make it yours.
Or maybe you already own a motorcycle and are looking to safely bring it with you to another city or state. Well, how do you do that? Read on to learn how motorcycle shipping services work.
Which Motorcycle Shipping Options Should You Pick?
You can transport your motorcycle in multiple ways. Here’s a breakdown of each who you should hire and choices amongst other parts of the process:
Who to Hire?
When searching for a motorcycle shipping service, you would mainly encounter two options:
- Broker: While they don’t own trucks, they connect you with the most trusted carriers within their network. They get your work done faster because they are not tied to a schedule, and you often get better pricing.
- Private Carrier/Direct Transport: These motorcycle transport companies manage the entire move on their own trucks. They cost slightly less but most of the time, there’s lack of customer support and updates as they don’t usually have any office or team. They’re always on the road.
Which Transport Method to Choose From?
Once you choose who you want to ship with, you choose how. These are your options:
- Enclosed Motorcycle Transport: Here the bike is inside a fully covered truck - safe from outside elements like dust and rain. Most people with new, custom or luxury bikes choose this.
- Open Transport: In this, your bike is secured on a flatbed or open trailer. It’s more suitable for shorter journeys and is the cheapest professional bike shipping service.
For longer distances or speciality bikes, you can also get your bike tied down on a sturdy pallet or secured inside a crate. People also choose it for international shipping where extra stability is required.
Where do Pick-Up and Drop-Off Happen?
Choosing between these would depend on your budget and convenience:
- Door-to-Door Motorcycle Shipping: The carrier picks up and drops off the motorcycle at the exact addresses you provide. It’s very convenient. You may just need to be available for hand-off or receiving at your location.
- Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: If you’re on a budget, you can drop off the bike at a local freight terminal and pick it up at the one closest to you.
You don’t always have to handle drop-offs yourself. You can designate someone for that but make sure they thoroughly check vehicle condition before signing any delivery paperwork.
Do You Want to DIY it?
You can also decide against a shipping company and choose the following methods:
- Rent a Van or Trailer: You can load your bike carefully using a ramp and tie it down using ratchet straps. However, in case of damage, you can not make any claims and will be responsible for it.
- Ride it Yourself: You can do this for short distances, but it is not safe and would cost higher than shipping costs with all expenses combined.
Need a professional to handle the entire transportation? Call (888) 687-3243 to get free, no-obligation motorcycle shipping quotes right now!
6 Things to Check Before You Choose a Motorcycle Shipper
To save yourself from delays, damage, or problems later inform yourself on the following things:
Delivery Time
Ask how long the whole trip normally takes. Each company handles different schedules. Sometimes motorcycle shipping services move only when the truck is full - which may take some time to start the trip.
Ask them directly:
- When will it arrive?
- Is this a guaranteed delivery window or just an estimate?
- What happens if the bike doesn’t reach on time?
If you need your bike by a certain date, inform the company. Communicate clearly to avoid delays.
Easy Auto Ship offers close estimates thanks to historical data and close communication with carriers going the same route, who will likely deliver the bike faster. Still, things like traffic jams, weather conditions, and hauler breakdown can sometimes cause delays. In this case, we offer a rental allowance.
Reviews and Reputation
Search the company name on Google and Yelp. Check what real customers say, not the testimonials the company puts on their own website.
When reading reviews pay attention to:
- If bikes showed up late
- If anything was scratched or damaged
- If the driver was hard to reach
- If the final price suddenly changed
If you notice the same problem mentioned by multiple reviewers, understand that it is serious.
FMCSA License
Every legal motorcycle transporter in the United States must have permission from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Ask for their USDOT number or MC number. You can look it up online yourself. If they refuse or don’t have one, that is a clear sign to avoid them.
Insurance
Always ask about insurance. Some companies include full coverage. Some only cover a part of the damage. Some ask you to pay extra for protection. Ask how you would file a claim if something happens. Even if you believe you’ll never need it, knowing the process keeps you safe.
Tracking and Communication
Ask how you will get updates. Some companies give you online tracking. Others call or text at each step. You should always be able to reach someone if you’re worried or want to check progress.
Quotes and Pricing
Ask at least three companies for a price. Compare what is included. Don’t go for cheap offers. Low prices could mean slow or damaged delivery because they’ll cut corners to make a profit. Pick a company with transparent pricing.
What Does Shipping in Action Look Like?
This section is to help you understand the operational flow you should expect when you hire a motorcycle shipping service.
- Booking And Verification: Once you verify your carrier, you confirm booking with them. [earlier section advises on how to select carrier]
- Scheduling Pick Up Window: The carrier contacts you to schedule a pickup window. You confirm access details of the bike.
- Inspection and Documentation Before Pick-up: The driver will inspect the vehicle and record the bike’s condition on the Bill of Lading. For further assurance, you should also take your own timestamped photos from each angle to keep recording.
- Loading and Securing: The bike is properly secured with required equipment to ensure least movement and damage during transit. [more on secure transit ahead]
- Transit and Tracking: The carrier provides updates via phone, text, online portal or email. Transit timing depends. [more on transit timing ahead].
- Delivery Inspection and Sign-Off: Once you receive the bike, inspect it. In case of damage, annotate the Bill of Lading with specific descriptions and photos and do not sign as “received in good condition”.
How are Motorcycles Secured for Secure Transits?
Bikes are fragile and need to be shipped carefully. Here’s how most credited motorbike transport providers do that:
- Wheel Chock Installation: The wheel chock used is measured to the size of the bike. It is to prevent forward/back movement.
- Diagonal Ratchet Strap Pattern: They attach two ratchet straps from the handlebar area to opposite truck anchors in a diagonal pattern, not pulling on grips. Then, they are tightened slowly and evenly.
- Rear Anchor Strap: The rear strap is secured at the swingarm or dedicated frame point to stop backward motion.
- Soft Loops and Frame Protection: They strap only solid metal points. If tied on fragile parts, they can break. The straps go on solid metal points only.
- Pallet or Crate for Extra Security: These offer protection during longer and/or international moves. They also assist with forklift handling.
Need safe motorcycle shipping? Call (888) 687-3243 to get free, no-obligation motorcycle transportation quotes right now!
How to Prepare Your Bike Before Pick-up
To keep your bike safe and avoid additional expenses, you must:
- Clean it thoroughly: This will make it easier to sport any dents or damage and document it.
- Take off Items: If the bike has any personal items such as a saddlebag or phone mounts - remove them. They might get damaged.
- Reduce Fuel: Filling your tank to one-quarter is enough. This lowers the chance of spilling and you can move it around if needed.
- Strap Protection: Protect your bike from the right straps by lining it with a soft foam, cloth or bubble wrap. This prevents paint damage.
- Confirm Delivery Details: Confirm pick-up and drop-off address and also inform the carrier of any narrow street or community restrictions during door-to-door motorcycle shipping.
Motorcycle Shipping Transit Time & Cost Range
Costs and transit times vary case-to-case. Generally, here’s what you should expect:
| Route Type | Typical Transit Time | Typical Cost Range | Common Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local or under 300 miles | 1 to 3 days | $200-$300 | Open trailer / local carrier |
| Regional or under 300-1000 miles | 2 to 7 days | $350-$900 | Open or enclosed transport |
| Cross country / Coast-to-coast | 7 to 21 days | $800-$1,500+ | Enclosed or enclosed with expedited options |
| International import/export | Variable by port and clearance | Varies widely depending on customs, duties, shipping and more | Container / Roll-on roll-off with custom clearance |
Key Cost Drivers
Here’s a detailed look at what drives pricing when you use a bike shipping service:
- Distance and Route: Longer trips cost more overall, though per-mile rate often decreases as distance increases
- Transport Method: Choosing enclosed motorcycle transport raises costs compared to open trailer options.
- Delivery Mode: Door-to-Door motorcycle shipping is comparatively higher in cost compared to other methods.
- Bike Type: Heavier, non-running, large or custom bikes often cost more.
- Seasonality: During peak seasons, such as holidays, costs can add up. Same goes for last minute deliveries and rushed booking.
- Insurance & Coverage Level: Basic coverage may be included but declared-value insurance or extra coverage adds to cost.
What You Need to Know About International Motorcycle Shipping to/from the USA
Shipping your motorcycle to another country or receiving one from there depends on the country’s rules and regulations. However, here’s what you need to be careful about:
- The Paperwork: The process has additional documents usually used for customs, taxes and proof-of-ownership.
- Shipping Rules: Each country has its own requirements such as safety checks, no soil or bugs due to agriculture rules, VIN verification, fuel & battery requirements and more.
- Shipping Costs Vary: Final charges are determined by arrival fees, inspection fees, storage fees, broker fees, and more. Always double-check the full breakdown.
- Timing and Buffer Days: International shipping schedules can change unexpectedly. Plan your shipping in before the time you need your bike. Custom and holiday delays can also happen.
- Packing: It is important to choose the most secure packing and crating options to secure your bike from damage. Do not keep any personal belongings or secret items in the crate.
- Inform Correctly: Inform your carrier correctly about your bike’s condition for a smooth move and cost accuracy.
Documents and Requirements for Domestic and International Moves
Generally, this is the paperwork you’ll need:
Domestic (within U.S)
- Bill of Lading issued by the motorcycle transport company.
- Written contract showing service details such as quote, delivery method, etc.
- Insurance coverage statement. Ask for the carrier’s cargo insurance limit, any declared-value upgrades. (Good to have)
International or Importing a Foreign-Registered Bike into the U.S
- Bill of Sale or purchase invoice
- Original Title and Registration from export country
- Compliance documents
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) forms if permanently importing
- Customs/Border Protection (CBP) entry documents
- Duty and tax documents where applicable.
Don’t want to go through the hassle? Need tailored and hands-off motorcycle shipping solutions? Call (888) 687-3243 to get free, no-obligation motorcycle transportation quotes right now!
Why Does Hiring a Professional Motorcycle Transport Service Matter?
A professional motorcycle shipping service can do the job perfectly because:
- They understand that motorcycles are not generic freight. They handle their fragility with special equipment such as wheel chocks and soft ties. This helps prevent damage to the suspensions and body.
- They do not stack or secure bikes incorrectly like traditional carriers might. They also know the best tie-down practices.
- Insurance and claims handling are faster with established motorcycle transport providers who file and track claims routinely.
- They help avoid custom delays as well due to their reputation and connections.
Read reviews online to avoid problems others had and hire the company you feel is most satisfactory and helpful. Just make sure that you have all documentation (signed inspection report) available in case of any delays or mishaps.
Insurance Claims
Here’s what you should verify before booking:
- Always confirm the carrier’s cargo insurance limits and whether they apply to motorcycles specifically. Standard carrier liability may be limited and tied to the weight of the bike rather than full retail value.
- Ask whether the motorcycle shipping service includes declared value coverage and what the deductible is.
- Record pickup condition on the Bill of Lading and get a copy.
- Government databases let you confirm carrier authority and recent safety or claims history.
Easy Auto Ship Helps Seamlessly Ship Your Motorcycle Across The US & Internationally
If you want your 2-wheeled metallic powerhouse transported safely across the US then Easy Auto Ship is your go-to shipping provider. We can ship both crated and uncrated motorcycles depending on your budget, total distance, terrain and weather conditions. So call (888) 687-3243 to get free, no-obligation motorcycle transportation quotes right now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-running motorcycle be shipped?
Yes. You just need to inform the carrier. It may also add to the cost because they need forklift, dollies and labor to load and unload.
What if I receive my motorcycle damaged?
File promptly and preserve all documentations. Ask the carrier to explain the coverage limits beforehand to avoid confusions later.
How to save money on motorcycle shipping?
It is best to choose the safest option rather than the cheapest. However, you can save your money by avoiding peak and holiday seasons. You can also ask the carrier for a discount if you are going to do multiple shipments. Choosing terminal-to-terminal shipping also helps.
Is enclosed motorcycle shipping a good option for vintage and collectible bikes?
Absolutely! It is the best option in most cases. It protects the bike from road and weather elements and also as crates and pallets for an extra layer of protection.
How accurate is in-transit tracking?
Over-the-road freight systems offer periodic updates. Premium providers may offer minute-by-minute GPS tracking. It is best to confirm the tracking level and update frequency when booking.
Do I need to be in the same city where the bike is shipped from?
Not always. The seller or a friend can handle the pickup and paperwork for you. Just stay in touch with the shipping company.
