How to Transport a Motorcycle: A Thorough Guide
When it comes to buying a used motorcycle, selling an old one, or simply needing to move your bike from one place to another, there are numerous motorcycle shipping companies ready to help you. However, with so many choices available and various aspects to consider, discovering the ideal motorcycle transport service can often seem daunting. Shiply aims to make your life easier by providing a user-friendly platform to compare prices and companies, often offering quotes up to 75% lower than standard rates. But before jumping in, it's essential to determine the specific type of motorcycle shipping service you need.
When exploring motorcycle transportation options and considering the cost of shipping a motorcycle, there are two main methods to choose from. The most budget-friendly and straightforward approach is to have someone ride your motorcycle to its destination. While this is a simple solution, it comes with the risk of damage during the trip, increases mileage, and is only possible if the motorcycle is in working condition. The most common method of transporting motorcycles is through the use of trailers, which can be either open or enclosed. Enclosed trailers are often preferred for expensive 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 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 an area that is difficult to reach, terminal-to-terminal delivery is also available at designated pick-up and drop-off points.
The cost of shipping a motorcycle can vary 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. When estimating the cost to ship a motorcycle, consider the following factors:
1. Distance: The distance your motorcycle needs to travel significantly impacts the price quoted by motorcycle shipping companies. Shipping a motorcycle cross-country will likely cost more than interstate motorcycle transport services.
2. Motorcycle Size: The size of your motorcycle also plays a role in the shipping cost, as larger bikes require more space on a trailer.
3. Transport Service Type: Opting for an enclosed trailer will likely increase the cost compared to open trailers, which are typically cheaper.
4. Pick-up & Delivery Locations: If you live in an urban area, there are likely multiple motorcycle shipping companies nearby that won't have to go out of their way to pick up or deliver your vehicle, resulting in lower costs. However, urban areas can also be more expensive due to the extra mileage required for pick-up and delivery.
5. Time of Year: Weather conditions can affect the price of motorcycle transport, 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 overwhelming. This is where Shiply comes in. To start receiving quotes from motorcycle shipping companies on our platform, simply provide a few 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. It's highly recommended to check feedback and user reviews for each company, as Shiply's system provides a score and allows you to read reviews from previous users. You can also send private messages to any company that has provided you with a quote to inquire about insurance documents, trailer types, and delivery schedules.
Motorcycle shipping companies on Shiply are often looking to fill space on trips they are already making, which means that by using Shiply to find a motorcycle delivery service, you are not only helping the environment by reducing unnecessary vehicles on the road 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, it's time to prepare your motorcycle for shipping using the following steps:
1. Documents: 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. Note whether the motorcycle shipping company requires the steering to be unlocked or not.
4. Photographic Evidence: Take high-resolution photos of the overall condition of your motorcycle prior to pick-up. Should any damage occur during shipping, you will have evidence of its condition beforehand.
After your selected motorcycle shipping 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 the motorcycle is in the expected condition.
2. Exterior Condition: Compare the motorcycle's condition upon delivery with the photos taken prior to shipping 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 it corresponds to the journey made.
Finally, we kindly request that you leave feedback and a review for your chosen motorcycle shipping company, enabling future Shiply users to continue browsing and comparing services with a high level of confidence and security.
Troy, located in New York, US, is a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Many people often move their motorcycles to and from Troy for various reasons, such as attending motorcycle events, relocating, or purchasing a new bike. When searching for motorcycle shipping services in Troy, it's essential to consider companies that offer "motorcycle shipping troy" or "troy motorcycle shipping" to ensure they cater to the specific needs of the area. By utilizing Shiply's platform, you can easily compare quotes from multiple motorcycle shipping companies serving Troy, New York, US, and find the most suitable option for your requirements and budget.