A Beginner's Comprehensive Guide to Transporting a Motorcycle
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 transport companies ready to help. However, with so many choices and factors to consider, selecting the right company can often feel 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% cheaper than standard rates. Before getting started, it's essential to identify the specific type of motorcycle shipping service you need.
When thinking about motorcycle transportation, there are two main options to choose from, each affecting the overall motorcycle shipping price. The cheapest and easiest option is to have someone ride your motorcycle to its destination. While this is a straightforward solution, it comes with risks of damage during the trip, increased mileage, and is only possible if the motorcycle is in working order. The most common method of motorcycle transport is through the use of trailers, which can be either open or enclosed. Enclosed trailers are often favored for expensive or classic motorbikes due to the added protection they provide against accidents and the elements, although this usually comes at a higher price. Open trailers generally cost less but offer less protection for your motorcycle. Door-to-door motorcycle shipping is the most commonly requested service, but if you live in an area that is hard to reach, terminal-to-terminal delivery is also available at designated pick-up and drop-off points.
The price of shipping a motorcycle varies based on several factors, with average costs ranging from $180 to $300 for distances under 1,000 miles and $300 to $700 for trips exceeding 1,000 miles. Key factors influencing the price include:
- Distance: Cross-country motorcycle shipping will likely cost more than interstate transport services.
- Motorcycle Size: Bigger motorcycles require more space on a trailer, affecting the overall shipping price.
- Transport Service Type: Enclosed trailers typically increase the price quoted by motorcycle shippers, while open trailers are generally cheaper.
- Pick-up & Delivery Locations: Urban areas with multiple motorcycle shipping companies in close proximity may offer lower rates due to regular 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, such as ice and snow in winter, can make shipping a motorcycle slightly more expensive compared to summer months.
With numerous motorcycle shippers offering similar services, deciding on the best company for your needs can be challenging. Shiply simplifies this process by connecting you with a wide range of motorcycle shipping companies on our platform. To start receiving quotes, simply provide details about your delivery, including 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 most suitable quote. It is highly recommended to review 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 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 cheapest motorcycle shipping quotes available. As these transporters 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 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 the vehicle's 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 evidence will be useful if any damage occurs 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 any 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.
Rugby, a small city in North Dakota, US, has become a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Many people often move their motorcycles to and from Rugby for various reasons, such as attending motorcycle events, relocating, or purchasing a new bike. The city's central location and proximity to major highways make it an ideal spot for motorcycle shipping companies to offer their services. With a growing number of motorcycle owners in the area, the demand for reliable and affordable motorcycle transport has increased significantly in recent years.
Finally, we kindly ask that you leave feedback and a review for your chosen motorcycle shipping company to help future Shiply users continue to browse and compare services with a high level of confidence and security.