How To Haul a Motorcycle: Beginner’s Guide

Rochdi Rais Rochdi Rais · Updated April 10, 2023

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Are you planning to haul a motorcycle to a new location? Do you need to transport your motorcycle across the country? Whether you’ve bought a new motorcycle or sold your existing bike, shipping your motorcycle can be challenging. While you can ride your motorcycle to a new destination, hauling isn’t always an option, especially if you’re covering a long distance.

Fortunately, there are several ways to transport a motorcycle, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to haul a motorcycle safely and efficiently.

Why Consider Motorcycle Shipping?

Motorcycle shipping is an ideal solution for several reasons. Here are some of the top reasons why you should consider hauling your motorcycle:

1. Distance – If you’re moving your motorcycle across large distances, riding it yourself may not be practical. Hauling your bike can be much more convenient and safer.

2. Weather – If you need to transport your motorcycle in poor weather conditions, such as rain or snow, hauling is the safest option.

3. Time – If you don’t have the time to ride your motorcycle to a new destination, motorcycle hauling can save you time.

4. Protection – Motorcycle hauling companies use specialized equipment, such as pallets and straps, which protect your motorcycle from damage during transportation.

Now that we’ve established why you should consider motorcycle shipping let’s look at how to haul a motorcycle safely and efficiently.

1. Research Your Options

Before looking for motorcycle shipping companies, you must research your options. This involves comparing different services, such as door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal delivery, and getting quotes from multiple companies.

When researching motorcycle shipping companies, consider the following factors:

1. Reputation – Look for reviews and references from past customers to gauge the company’s reputation.

2. Experience – Consider the experience of the company when hauling motorcycles.

3. License & Insurance – Ensure that the motorcycle shipping company has the proper licenses and insurance to transport your motorcycle.

4. Specialized Equipment – Verify that the shipping company has specialized equipment to handle motorcycles safely.

2. Prepare Your Motorcycle

Before you transport your motorcycle, you need to prepare it for shipping. This involves removing any loose items, such as mirrors or stickers, and securely packing them with your other belongings.

Here are some steps to prepare your motorcycle for shipping:

1. Clean your motorcycle – Perform a thorough cleaning of your motorcycle before delivery.

2. Document the condition – Take photos of your motorcycle before it’s shipped to document any existing damage.

3. Drain fluids and disconnect the battery Remove gasoline, oil, and other fluids from your motorcycle before shipping it. Disconnect the battery to avoid draining it during transportation.

4. Secure the motorcycle – Use straps to hold your bike during transport securely.

3. Choose the Right Service

Once you’ve selected a motorcycle shipping company and prepared your bike, you need to choose the right delivery service. There are several options available, including:

1. Open shipping – This is the most common type of delivery service, in which your motorcycle is transported in an open truck.

2. Enclosed shipping – This option is more expensive but offers more protection for your motorcycle.

3. Expedited shipping – If you need your motorcycle to be delivered quickly, you can opt for expedited shipping.

4. Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Delivery: When choosing a delivery service, you’ll also need to decide whether you want your motorcycle to be delivered directly to your doorstep or at a terminal.

Door-to-door delivery offers more convenience but is more expensive than terminal-to-terminal delivery. With terminal-to-terminal delivery, you’ll need to go to pick up your motorcycle from a nearby terminal.

5. Insurance: Finally, verify that the shipping company offers insurance coverage before shipping your motorcycle. Even if the company has insurance, make sure you understand the policy and know what it covers.

FAQs: How To Haul a Motorcycle

How Can I Transport My Motorcycle to a New Location?

You can transport your motorcycle by hauling it, which involves using a specialized carrier to transport it by truck.

What Is the Best Way to Haul a Motorcycle?

The best way to haul a motorcycle is by using a specialized carrier that has the necessary equipment, such as pallets and straps, to protect your motorcycle during transportation.

Should I Use an Open or Enclosed Carrier for Motorcycle Hauling?

An enclosed carrier offers more protection for your motorcycle but is more expensive than an open carrier. The choice ultimately depends on your budget and how much protection you need.

How Do I Prepare My Motorcycle for Shipping?

You should clean your motorcycle, document its condition with photos, drain fluids, disconnect the battery, and securely pack any loose items before shipping it.

Do I Need Insurance for Motorcycle Shipping?

It’s recommended that you verify that the shipping company offers insurance coverage before shipping your motorcycle. Even if the company has insurance, make sure you understand the policy and know what it covers.

How Do I Choose a Motorcycle Shipping Company?

When choosing a motorcycle shipping company, consider their reputation, experience, licenses and insurance, specialized equipment, and delivery options. Getting quotes from multiple companies to compare prices is also a good idea.

How Long Does It Take To Haul a Motorcycle?

The time it takes to haul a motorcycle depends on the distance, delivery option, and any potential delays. Typically, your motorcycle can take several days to a couple of weeks to be delivered.

Bottom Line

Shipping a motorcycle can be daunting, but with proper planning and preparation, you can haul your bike safely and efficiently. Research your options, prepare your motorcycle, choose the right service, and ensure your shipment is insured. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your motorcycle arrives at its destination in top condition.

If you’re looking for a reliable motorcycle shipping company, look no further than CitizenShipper. With our vast network of drivers, we provide convenient and cost-effective motorcycle shipping services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more!