Get a Quick Quote for Motorcycles
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How Motorcycles Shipping Works
Three simple steps to get your motorcycles shipped.
Enter Bike Details
Specify year, make, model, and whether your motorcycle is running or non-running. Choose crated or uncrated transport.
Carrier Quotes
Specialized motorcycle transport carriers bid with pricing for enclosed or open trailer shipping.
Safe Delivery
Your bike is strapped, secured, and delivered with care. Inspect on arrival and sign the delivery receipt.
Recent Motorcycles Loads
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Shipping Tips for Motorcycles
- 1Check tire pressure and battery charge before pickup.
- 2Remove or secure saddlebags and loose accessories.
- 3Take detailed photos from all angles.
- 4Note any existing scratches or damage on the Bill of Lading.
- 5Fold in mirrors or remove them to prevent breakage during transport.
- 6Disable alarms and leave one key with the carrier.
- 7Clean the bike before shipping so pre-existing damage is easy to identify.
- 8Confirm the carrier uses soft straps and wheel chocks, not hard chains.
Motorcycles Shipping Guide
Everything you need to know about shipping motorcycles.
Shipping a motorcycle requires care and expertise that differs from standard vehicle transport. Bikes are more vulnerable to scratching, tipping, and weather damage than cars, which is why choosing the right carrier and transport method matters so much. Whether you are buying a bike online, relocating, heading to a rally, or sending a vintage ride to restoration, understanding motorcycle shipping helps protect your investment.
The two main transport options are open and enclosed trailers. Open trailers are the most affordable choice and work fine for everyday riders, commuter bikes, and shorter distances. Enclosed trailers provide full protection from rain, road salt, UV exposure, and highway debris, making them the best choice for high-value bikes, vintage motorcycles, custom builds, and long-distance moves. Some carriers specialize exclusively in motorcycle transport and operate purpose-built trailers with individual wheel chocks, soft tie-down systems, and hydraulic lift gates for easy loading.
How your motorcycle is secured on the trailer is just as important as the trailer type. Professional carriers use soft loop straps around the handlebars or triple tree, combined with wheel chocks that lock the front tire in place. The bike should be held firmly upright with compression on the front suspension. Never accept a carrier who uses hard metal hooks directly on your frame, forks, or any painted surface. For non-running bikes, carriers use ramps or dolly systems to roll the motorcycle into position. Always confirm the securing method with your carrier before booking.
Preparing your bike properly prevents the most common shipping damage. Ensure tires are inflated and the battery holds a charge so the bike can be rolled on and off the trailer. Remove or fold in mirrors, retract antennas, and secure any loose accessories. Leave the fuel tank at one-quarter full or less. Clean the bike beforehand — a clean motorcycle makes it easy to spot any new damage at delivery. At both pickup and delivery, perform a thorough walk-around inspection with the driver and document everything on the Bill of Lading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shipping motorcycles.
Ready to Ship Your Motorcycles?
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