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 place to another, there are numerous motorcycle transport companies prepared to help you. However, with so many choices available and various aspects to consider, discovering the ideal motorcycle shipping service can be daunting. Shiply streamlines the process by offering a user-friendly platform to evaluate prices and companies, frequently providing quotes up to 75% lower than standard rates. Before diving in, it's essential to identify the specific type of motorcycle shipping service you need.
When exploring motorcycle transportation options and considering the cost to transport a motorcycle, there are two main methods to choose from. The most economical and straightforward approach is to have someone ride your motorcycle to its destination. While this is an easy solution, it comes with risks of damage during the trip, increased mileage, and is only possible if the motorcycle is functional. The most common method for moving motorcycles is through the use of trailers, which can be either open or enclosed. Enclosed trailers are often preferred for valuable or classic motorbikes due to the enhanced protection they provide against accidents and the elements, although this typically comes at a higher cost. Open trailers are generally more budget-friendly but offer less protection for your motorcycle. Door-to-door motorcycle shipping is the most frequently requested service, but if you live in a hard-to-reach area, terminal-to-terminal delivery is also available at designated pick-up and drop-off points.
The cost to transport 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 trips exceeding 1,000 miles. When estimating the cost of shipping a motorcycle, consider the following factors:
- Distance: The distance your motorcycle needs to travel significantly impacts the price quoted by motorcycle shipping companies. Cross-country motorcycle shipping will likely cost more than interstate motorcycle transport services.
- Motorcycle Size: Larger motorcycles require more space on a trailer, affecting the overall shipping cost.
- Transport Service Type: Opting for an enclosed trailer will likely increase the price compared to open trailers, which are typically cheaper.
- Pick-up and Delivery Locations: Urban areas with multiple motorcycle shipping companies nearby may offer more competitive rates, as the companies regularly drive these routes. However, urban areas can also be more expensive due to the extra mileage required for pick-up and delivery.
- Time of Year: Weather conditions can impact motorcycle transport prices, with ice and snow in winter often making shipping slightly more expensive than in summer.
With numerous factors to consider and hundreds of motorcycle shippers offering similar services, selecting the right motorcycle shipping company can be challenging. Shiply simplifies the process by connecting you with various motorcycle shipping companies on our platform. To start receiving quotes, simply provide details about your delivery, such as the make and model of the motorcycle, pick-up location, and delivery destination. Companies will then send motorcycle shipping quotes directly to your Shiply inbox, allowing you to easily compare prices, service types, and companies until you find the perfect quote for your needs. We highly recommend checking feedback and user reviews for each company, as Shiply's system assigns scores and provides access to reviews from previous users. You can also privately message any company that has provided a quote to inquire about insurance documents, trailer types, and delivery schedules.
Motorcycle shipping companies on Shiply often aim to fill space on trips they are already making, which not only helps the environment by reducing unnecessary vehicles on the roads but also leads to some of the most affordable motorcycle shipping quotes available. As these transporters are already "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 remaining space in their vehicles, resulting in quotes up to 75% cheaper than usual rates.
Once you have selected a motorcycle hauler you are comfortable with, follow these steps to prepare your motorcycle for shipping:
- Documents: Provide any necessary documents, especially if you are selling the motorcycle.
- Cleaning: Remove all personal effects and thoroughly clean your motorcycle before shipping. This allows you to assess its condition prior to pick-up, which will help if any damage occurs during transit.
- Running Condition: If the motorcycle will be driven at any point during transit, ensure it is in running condition with the necessary fluid levels and tire pressure. Note whether the shipping company requires the steering to be unlocked or not.
- Photographic Evidence: Take high-resolution photos of your motorcycle's overall condition before pick-up. This will serve as evidence of its condition should any damage occur during shipping.
After your chosen motorcycle shipping company has delivered your vehicle, follow these steps to ensure everything is in order:
- Check Vital Signs: Inspect lights, engine, brakes, and other important functions upon delivery to confirm the motorcycle is in the expected condition.
- Exterior Condition: Compare the motorcycle's condition upon delivery with the photos taken prior to shipping to identify any additional damage that may have occurred during transit.
- Check Mileage: If your motorcycle was driven to the delivery point, check the added mileage to ensure it corresponds with the journey made.
Lastly, we kindly request that you leave feedback and a review for your chosen motorcycle shipping company, enabling future Shiply users to browse and compare services with a high level of confidence and security.
Lexington, Kentucky, US, is a city that often sees a high volume of motorcycle shipping activity. Many people choose to move their motorcycles to and from Lexington for various reasons, such as attending motorcycle events, relocating for work or personal reasons, or purchasing a motorcycle from a seller in the area. Lexington's central location within the United States makes it a convenient hub for motorcycle shipping, with many motorcycle shipping companies offering services to and from the city. When searching for motorcycle shipping in Lexington or Lexington motorcycle shipping, it's essential to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best deal and ensure a smooth, safe transport for your beloved motorcycle.