What Riders Should Know Before Shipping a Motorcycle

Photo: Harley-Davidson

Shipping your bike can feel like a big step for many riders. Whether you’re relocating across the country, selling your bike to someone far away, or heading off on a long tour, getting your bike where you need it safely and efficiently is essential. Unlike driving your bike on a trailer yourself, using a professional delivery service is much less stressful, but there are some important things you should know before handing over the keys. This guide details what riders should consider so they can prepare, protect their bikes, and handle the process with confidence.

Why ship your bike?

For many riders, shipping makes sense, especially when a ride isn’t practical due to distance, weather, logistics, or other reasons. But knowing how it works and what to expect can help you get the best experience and avoid common pitfalls.

Choosing the right shipping service

One of the first and most important steps is to choose a professional bike transportation provider that fits your needs. Not all carriers are created equal. Some companies specialize in enclosed transport, others in open carriers, and still others offer door-to-door service rather than terminal-to-terminal pick-up and delivery.

When comparing services, consider whether you want a budget-friendly option or maximum protection. For example, fully enclosed trucks cost more, but are better protected from weather and road debris. When transporting an expensive bike or custom model, investing in sealed shipping is often worth the peace of mind.

Photo: Rachel Clare

costs and estimates

It’s important to understand pricing before booking a delivery. Bike transport quotes vary depending on distance, type of transport, season, and location. Shipping your bike short distances using an open carrier is usually cheaper than long distance enclosed shipping.

Please note that the first quote you receive may not be the best one. It’s wise to get at least three quotes from different carriers so you can compare prices and services. Take a close look at what’s included. Quotes may or may not include pickup, insurance, boxing, and delivery services.

Also keep in mind additional costs. Additional charges may apply if your bike requires special preparation or if you choose weekend pickup or delivery. Clarifying these details upfront will prevent any surprises when the final bill arrives.

Preparing the bike for shipping

Proper preparation will ensure that your bike is safe for transport. Most carriers have shipping requirements and require you to follow certain steps before pickup.

Next, check the liquid level. Many carriers ask that you leave gas only about a quarter of the way in the tank to reduce weight and eliminate the risk of leaks. Secure any loose parts, remove any aftermarket accessories that may be damaged or missing, and remove the battery as required by your carrier.

Tires should be properly inflated and steering should be straight when the bike is loaded. We also recommend disabling the alarm to prevent it from going off during transport.

Insurance and liability

Most reputable bike transport companies offer some level of insurance, but the details can vary widely. Before choosing a carrier, ask about its insurance policy and what it covers. I would like to know if I will be compensated for the full replacement price or only a portion of the bike’s value.

Make sure you understand your deductible and how your claim will be processed. Some carriers require you to purchase additional insurance for complete protection, while others include full coverage in their quote. Please read the terms carefully and ask questions if you have any questions.

Having your own insurance riders and supplements can give you added peace of mind, especially when transporting expensive or vintage bikes.

Photo: Vignesh Rajendran

Schedule pickup and delivery

Communication is key when coordinating pickups and deliveries. Most airlines will give you a time frame rather than an exact time. Be prepared to be flexible, especially if there are delays or schedule changes due to weather.

On the day of pick-up, please check the condition of the bicycle with the driver. Take photos and note any existing scratches, dents, or mechanical issues. Proper condition reporting protects you and your carrier in the event of damage.

For delivery, please check address and accessibility. If you won’t be home when your bike arrives, make sure someone you trust can pick it up on your behalf.

Don’t choose your carrier based solely on the lowest price. Extremely low estimates can be a red flag, as they may indicate minimal insurance coverage, poor handling, or unreliability. Also, don’t skip reading reviews or asking for references. Feedback from real riders can tell you a lot about a company’s performance.

Final thoughts…

There’s no need to stress about shipping your bike. With proper preparation and knowledge, you can ensure your bike arrives safely and on time. Start by choosing a reliable shipping company, getting multiple quotes, and properly preparing your bike. Remember to double check your insurance coverage and be flexible with pickup and delivery windows.