How to Transport a Motorcycle: An All-Inclusive Manual
When it comes to buying a used motorcycle, selling a pre-owned one, or simply requiring to move your bike from one location to another, there are numerous motorcycle transport companies prepared to provide their services. However, with so many choices available and various aspects to consider, selecting the right one can often appear daunting. Shiply aims to streamline your life by offering a user-friendly platform to evaluate prices and companies, often with estimates up to 75% lower than standard rates. But first, let's investigate the different kinds of motorcycle transport services available.
When it comes to moving motorcycles and considering motorcycle shipping expenses, there are two main methods to select from. The most economical and straightforward choice is to have someone ride your motorcycle to its destination. While this is an easy solution, it comes with the risk of damage during the trip, increases mileage, and is only feasible if the motorcycle is in working order.
The most common method of motorcycle transportation is through the use of trailers. These can be open or enclosed, with enclosed trailers often preferred for costly or vintage motorbikes due to the added protection they provide against accidents and the elements, albeit at a higher price. Open trailers generally cost less but offer less protection for your motorcycle. Door-to-door motorcycle shipping is the most frequently requested service, but if you reside in a hard-to-reach area, terminal-to-terminal delivery is also available at designated pick-up and drop-off points.
The price of transporting a motorcycle varies based on several factors, with average prices ranging from $180 to $300 for distances under 1,000 miles and $300 to $700 for journeys exceeding 1,000 miles. The key factors influencing the cost to transport a motorcycle include:
1. Distance - As mentioned earlier, the distance your motorcycle needs to travel significantly impacts the price quoted by motorcycle transport companies. Cross-country motorcycle shipping will likely cost more than interstate motorcycle transport services.
2. Motorcycle Size - The dimensions of your motorcycle also play a role in the shipping cost, as larger bikes require more space on a trailer.
3. Motorcycle Transport Service Type - Opting for an enclosed trailer will likely increase the cost quoted by motorcycle shippers, while open trailers are typically more affordable.
4. Pick-up and Delivery Locations - If you live in an urban area, there are likely multiple motorcycle transport companies nearby that won't have to go out of their way to pick up your vehicle, and the same applies to delivery in urban areas. These routes are usually less expensive as companies drive them regularly. However, urban areas can also be more costly due to the extra mileage required for pick-up and delivery.
5. Time of Year - Weather conditions can also affect the price of your motorcycle transport, with the ice and snow that winter brings often making shipping a motorcycle slightly more expensive than in summer.
With numerous factors to consider when selecting the right motorcycle transport service, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when starting your search. There are hundreds of motorcycle shippers offering similar services, so how do you determine the best motorcycle transport company for your needs? This is where Shiply comes in.
Shiply's platform hosts many motorcycle transport companies, and all you need to do to start receiving quotes is provide a few details about your delivery, such as the make and model of the motorcycle, the pick-up location, and the delivery destination. Once you submit this information, companies will send motorcycle shipping quotes directly to your Shiply inbox, allowing you to easily compare prices, service types, and companies until you find the quote that suits you best.
It's highly recommended to check the feedback and user reviews for a company. Shiply's system assigns each motorcycle transport company a score and allows you to read reviews from previous users. You can also send a private message to any company that has provided you with a quote to inquire about insurance documents, trailer types, and delivery schedules.
The motorcycle transport companies on Shiply are usually looking to fill space on trips they are already making. By using Shiply to find a motorcycle delivery service, you are not only helping the environment by reducing the number of unnecessary vehicles on the roads but also potentially accessing some of the cheapest motorcycle shipping quotes available. As motorcycle transporters on Shiply are 'going there anyway,' they can offer different pricing compared to dedicated motorcycle transportation services. Their costs are already sunk, and they are simply looking to fill the rest of their vehicle, allowing them to provide some of the most affordable motorcycle shipping quotes, often up to 75% cheaper than usual rates.
Once you have selected a motorcycle hauler you are comfortable with to handle your delivery, it's time to prepare your motorcycle for shipping using the following steps:
1. Documents - Ensure that you provide any necessary documents, especially if you are selling the motorcycle.
2. Cleaning - Remove all personal effects from your motorcycle and give it a thorough cleaning before shipping. This allows you to properly assess the vehicle's condition prior to pick-up, which will help should any damage occur during transit.
3. Running Condition - If the motorcycle will be driven at any point during transit, ensure that it is in running condition, with the necessary fluid levels and tire pressure.
4. Steering Lock - Note whether the motorcycle transport company you have chosen requires the steering to be unlocked or not.
5. Photographic Evidence - Take high-resolution photos of the overall condition of your motorcycle prior to pick-up. Should any damage occur to the vehicle during shipping, you will have evidence of its condition beforehand.
After your selected motorcycle transport company has delivered your vehicle, follow these steps to ensure everything is in order:
1. Check Vital Signs - Inspect lights, engine, brakes, and any other important functions upon delivery to ensure that the motorcycle is in the expected condition.
2. Exterior Condition - Compare the photos taken of the motorcycle prior to shipping with its condition upon delivery to determine if any additional damage occurred during transit.
3. Check Mileage - If your motorcycle was driven to the delivery point, check the added mileage to ensure that it corresponds to the journey made.
Finally, we kindly request that you leave feedback and a review for your chosen motorcycle transport company so that future Shiply users can continue to browse and compare services with a high level of confidence and security.
Lawrence, Kansas, US, is a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts, with many people moving their motorcycles to and from the city. The vibrant motorcycle culture, scenic routes, and numerous motorcycle events make Lawrence an attractive location for riders. When it comes to motorcycle shipping in Lawrence, there are several reputable companies that offer reliable and affordable services. These Lawrence motorcycle shipping providers understand the unique requirements of transporting motorcycles and ensure that your vehicle reaches its destination safely and on time. Whether you're relocating to Lawrence or simply need to transport your motorcycle for an event, you can trust the expertise of these motorcycle transport companies in Lawrence.