Using an auto transporter to move your bike will help ensure it arrives safely and quickly to its destination. While there are many similarities between shipping a car and shipping a motorcycle, it’s best to work with companies that have specific experience shipping motorcycles.
To find the best motorcycle shipping company for your needs, make sure to do the following:
Verify that the carrier is registered with the Department of Transportation and has a seven-digit USDOT number. In addition, there are other licensing requirements that are state-specific. Carriers must have the licensing required for their state in order to operate legally.
Motorcycle shipping costs depend on several factors, including distance of travel and shipping method. The average cost to ship a motorcycle in the U.S. a distance of 1,000 miles is $400–$600. The average cost to ship a motorcycle internationally can range from $650–$2,000.
It helps to know all the variables that will affect shipping cost so you can get an accurate motorcycle shipping estimate. The cost of shipping a motorcycle is based on several factors, including:
Exact costs will be determined by carrier and method. Enclosed bike shipping costs, which will protect your motorcycle from the elements, are higher than open shipping costs. You can expect enclosed shipping to be about 50 percent more expensive than open shipping.
The weight of your motorcycle
The weight of the bike can affect the shipping cost. Heavier bikes on average are more expensive to ship than lighter bikes.
The time of year
The season you’re shipping impacts rates. Summer and early fall are more popular times of year for vehicle transport than winter and spring. The rates in winter and spring are therefore lower.
Your delivery location
The specific location where your bike will be shipped matters too. Urban shipments are less expensive than remote or rural deliveries. Door-to-door residential shipment costs more than terminal-to-terminal shipping.
The total distance of transport
How far you are shipping your bike will impact cost. Typical motorcycle shipping rates in the U.S. are around $.50 per mile.
Motorcycle transporters are required to carry liability and cargo insurance to cover theft or damage, so the cost of insurance is included in the initial quote. A typical insurance cost is $.50 per pound, but this could be higher on heavier or specialty motorcycles. Minimum insurance amounts are established by the FMCSA; according to federal guidelines, carriers must maintain coverage of $750,000 or more. However, this amount applies to all the motorcycles or vehicles the carrier is transporting, not just your bike.
Ask for proof of insurance prior to making arrangements with the company, and inquire about what specifically that insurance will cover. If you have a very valuable or vintage bike, this is an especially important step. You may also want to check with your own personal insurance provider to see if they will provide any additional coverage when you transport your motorcycle.
Cheapest motorcycle shipping
Most motorcycle transport companies will offer relatively similar quotes. However, with a little bit of thinking ahead, you can save some money when shipping your motorcycle:
Try open shipping
If you are not overly concerned with the risk of light damage to your bike, then consider open shipping. It is much cheaper than enclosed shipping, which will ensure your bike arrives in pristine condition.
Ship in the winter
If timing is not as big of an issue to you, ship your bike in the winter. This is the offseason for motorcycle and car shipping, and your quote will be lower.
Plan ahead
The more lenient you are with the shipment’s arrival time, the lower it will cost to transport your bike. Waiting until the last second, especially if you have to opt for expedited shipping, will cost much more.
Although it’s great to save money, you shouldn’t necessarily just go with the lowest quote offered you. A quote that is significantly lower than others often may be hiding additional fees, so be careful.
How to transport a motorcycle
Understand the different motorcycle shipping services
Door-to-door shipping
This means the motorcycle carrier will pick up your bike at your home and carry it directly to its new location. Door-to-door shipping is typically more expensive than terminal-to-terminal shipping.
Terminal-to-terminal shipping
This means you will take your motorcycle to a terminal, and the carrier will take it to the terminal nearest to your motorcycle’s new destination. Then, you will have to arrange for alternate transport home.
Transport experts recommend using enclosed shipping for longer distances (such as more than 500 miles), to protect your bike from the elements. Open transport is suitable for shorter distances.
If you’re shipping a motorcycle during a time of year or through a location that may experience inclement weather, consider enclosed shipping over open shipping.
How soon you need your bike delivered
If you are on a strict deadline or need the bike to a certain location at a specific date, open shipping may be the better option.
If you have a luxury, vintage or otherwise fragile or very valuable bike, it’s best to use enclosed shipping.
If you are in a rush, expedited shipping for your bike is always an option. Expect to pay more, just like with any other type of expedited shipping. Your bike will likely be picked up in just 1 to 3 days. If possible, though, try to plan ahead so you can be flexible with your pickup and dropoff dates. That will result in the lowest cost for you.
Prepare your motorcycle for shipping
Clean your motorcycle
Wash your bike thoroughly prior to shipment and make sure there is no dirt or debris deposits on the bike or tires.
Drain fluids
In most circumstances, carriers will require you to drain all fluids for safety during shipping.
For enclosed shipment by crate, you may need to disconnect and remove the battery.
Remove accessories and alarms
Remove any accessories and disable any alarm system for the smoothest ride possible.
Fold the mirrors against the motorcycle to prevent cracking or other damage.
Make sure the tires are adequately inflated. This will act as another protection against damage during transit.
Take note of and photograph any existing damage of the bike. Some carriers also document existing damage, but it’s best to have your own record as well. Ask to see the pre-trip inspection report to make sure it aligns with your documentation.
Bottom line
It’s important to fully prepare your bike for transport to ensure it arrives undamaged at its final destination. Save money by planning ahead and shipping in the offseason. If you want to make sure your bike arrives in pristine condition, choose enclosed shipping to protect it from damage. Last of all, make sure to ask for proof of insurance. Every reliable motorcycle shipper will provide it.
