Ship Your Motorcycle with Confidence: A Comprehensive Guide

Rochdi Rais Rochdi Rais · Updated November 12, 2024

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If you’re an avid motorcycle rider, you might want to take your ride with you wherever you go. Whether you’re moving across the country, sending a motorcycle as a gift, or selling a bike, shipping your motorcycle is much easier than hauling it across the country. However, to ship your motorcycle you’ll need a bit of preparation to ensure it doesn’t get damaged in transit.

In this article, we’ll provide valuable insights on how to ship your motorcycle safely to your desired destination. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to ship your motorcycle safely.

Choose the Right Motorcycle Shipping Company

When it comes to motorcycle shipping, choosing the right shipping company is crucial. You can’t afford to trust your valuable asset to just anyone. Research shipping companies specializing in moving a motorcycle and read customer reviews.

Check whether the company has been in business for an extended period and has a good track record. They should have a robust insurance policy covering the entire shipping process, ensuring that you are compensated in case of damages.

Prepare Your Motorcycle

Before you ship your motorcycle, you need to prepare it for transit. This process involves several steps:

Clean the motorcycle – Before delivering your motorcycle, ensure that it’s clean. This not only prevents dirt and dust from causing scratches on your motorcycle but also makes it easier for the transport company to inspect your motorcycle.

Remove personal belongings – Shipping companies cannot take responsibility for personal belongings left inside your motorcycle. Therefore, removing any accessories or personal items from the motorcycle is crucial before shipping it.

Document existing damages – Take pictures of your motorcycle before shipping it. This is primarily done to document the condition of your motorcycle pre-transit. If you want to claim damages after shipping, the photographs and video will provide evidence.

Drain fluids – Before shipping your bike, it’s essential to prepare it for transport by draining fluids from the motorcycle. Shipping companies advise removing gasoline and other fluids because leaks can cause potential hazards and other bikes in the truck.

Disable the alarm system – Motorcycle shipping companies are not liable for alarm systems that go off during transport. Thus, disabling the alarm system before handing your motorcycle to the shipping company is important.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

There are three main types of shipping methods for motorcycles:

Open-air trailers – These are similar to those used for car shipping, only they’re designed for motorcycles. Although this is the cheapest shipping method, it provides less protection from the elements and potential damage.

Enclosed trailers – Enclosed trailers offer a higher level of protection since motorcycles are secured in an enclosed space however, they are more expensive.

Crated Shipping – This method provides the highest level of security, with the motorcycle mounted inside a crate. This method is ideal for fragile or valuable motorcycles since it offers maximum protection from theft, elements, and potential damage. However, the cost is significantly higher.

It’s important to note that the costs involved in motorcycle shipping vary depending on the shipping company, the distance, and the shipping method. However, it’s essential to prioritize the safety of your motorcycle above the costs involved.

Schedule Your Motorcycle Delivery

After considering the shipping company, preparing your motorcycle and choosing the right shipping method, it’s time to schedule your motorcycle delivery. Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation, such as your motorcycle registration, bill of sale, or a title, before shipping. The shipping company will provide an estimated delivery date, and you should expect the actual arrival date to be within a few days of that estimated period.

Stay Updated on the Shipping Process

To ensure the safety and security of your motorcycle during the shipping process, it’s essential to stay updated on its progress. Choose a shipping company that provides a tracking number or real-time GPS location tracking for your motorcycle. This will allow you to monitor your bike’s location throughout its journey and give you peace of mind.

Additionally, maintaining open communication with the shipping company can help address any concerns or queries you may have during the shipping process. A responsive and reliable shipping company will keep you informed about the status of your motorcycle and any potential delays or issues that may arise.

Inspect Your Motorcycle Upon Arrival

Once your motorcycle arrives at its destination, it’s essential to inspect it thoroughly to ensure it’s in the same condition as when it was shipped. Compare the current state of your motorcycle with the photos and videos you took before shipping to identify any discrepancies or damage.

If you notice any damages, report them immediately to the shipping company and provide photographic evidence. The shipping company should have an established claims process to address any issues that may occur during transportation.

Secure Your Motorcycle During Transit

An essential aspect of shipping your motorcycle safely is ensuring it’s properly secured during transit. The shipping company you choose should have the necessary equipment and expertise to safely secure your motorcycle, preventing it from moving or falling during transportation.

Motorcycles should be secured with high-quality straps or harnesses that are specifically designed for motorcycle transportation. The bike should be anchored to the shipping container, crate, or trailer, and the straps should be tensioned correctly to avoid putting excessive pressure on the motorcycle’s suspension system.

By ensuring your motorcycle is properly secured during transit, you minimize the risk of damage or accidents during the shipping process.

FAQs on Shipping Your Motorcycle

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Motorcycle?

The cost of shipping a motorcycle depends on several factors, including the shipping method, distance, size, and weight of your bike. To get an accurate estimate, request detailed quotes from multiple shipping companies.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Motorcycle?

The time it takes to ship a motorcycle varies based on the distance between pick-up and delivery locations and the shipping company’s schedule. Generally, shipping within the same country can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Is It Safe to Ship a Motorcycle?

Shipping a motorcycle is generally safe when you choose a reputable shipping company and properly prepare your bike for transportation. Ensure that the company offers comprehensive insurance coverage for added peace of mind.

Can I Ship My Motorcycle Internationally?

Yes, you can ship your motorcycle internationally. It’s essential to work with a shipping company experienced in international motorcycle shipping and familiar with the customs regulations of the destination country.

How Do I Prepare My Motorcycle for Shipping?

To prepare your motorcycle for shipping, clean the bike, drain any fluids, disconnect the battery, and remove any loose accessories. Take photos of your motorcycle from all angles before it’s loaded onto the trailer. This will help you document its pre-shipping condition.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, motorcycle shipping can be daunting, but with proper preparation and research, you can ship your motorcycle safely to its destination. Choose a reputable motorcycle shipping company, prepare your motorcycle correctly, choose the right shipping method, and schedule your delivery. Motorcycle shipping ensures that your motorcycle arrives at your desired destination safely and on time.

Remember, your motorcycle is an asset that deserves to be handled with care. If you need assistance shipping your motorcycle, contact CitizenShipper for a hassle-free quote!