Motorcycle Shipping Services | Strong Young Movers

Motorcycle Shipping Services: Methods, Costs, and Preparation

Shipping your bike is easier than you think. We have moved everything from brand-new Ducatis to beat-up project bikes. Three options, all under $700 for most routes. Let us walk through it.

Three Ways to Ship a Motorcycle

1. Crated Shipping

Your motorcycle is placed inside a wooden or metal crate that is custom-built or adjusted to fit its dimensions. The crate is then shipped via freight carrier. This is the most protective method and is commonly used for international shipping, vintage bikes, and high-value motorcycles.

  • Protection Level: Maximum. Fully enclosed with no exposure to elements or other cargo.
  • Cost: $500-$1,000+ (includes crate construction)
  • Best For: Vintage motorcycles, custom builds, international shipping, bikes valued over $15,000
  • Transit Time: 5-10 business days (longer due to crating and freight scheduling)

2. Pallet Shipping

The motorcycle is strapped to a wooden pallet using professional-grade ratchet straps and wheel chocks. The pallet is then loaded into an enclosed freight truck. This offers strong protection at a lower cost than full crating.

  • Protection Level: High. Motorcycle is secured and enclosed but not fully boxed.
  • Cost: $400-$700
  • Best For: Standard motorcycles, sport bikes, cruisers shipping domestically
  • Transit Time: 4-8 business days

3. Open Trailer Shipping

Your motorcycle is loaded onto an open trailer designed for motorcycle transport. It is secured with wheel chocks and straps. Multiple motorcycles may share the trailer. This is the most affordable and widely available option.

  • Protection Level: Standard. Exposed to weather but securely fastened.
  • Cost: $300-$600
  • Best For: Budget-conscious shippers, standard bikes, short to medium distances
  • Transit Time: 3-7 business days

Motorcycle Shipping Cost Comparison

Distance Open Trailer Pallet Crated
Under 500 miles $300-$400 $400-$500 $500-$650
500-1,000 miles $400-$500 $500-$600 $650-$800
1,000-2,000 miles $450-$550 $550-$650 $700-$900
Coast to coast (2,500+ mi) $500-$700 $600-$750 $800-$1,100

How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Shipping

  1. Clean the motorcycle thoroughly so you can document its current condition.
  2. Take 20+ photographs from every angle, including close-ups of existing scratches, dents, and chrome condition.
  3. Check tire pressure and inflate to manufacturer specifications. The bike needs to roll.
  4. Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank or less. Enough to start and move the bike, but not more.
  5. Check for fluid leaks (oil, coolant, brake fluid). Fix active leaks before shipping.
  6. Charge the battery fully. The carrier may need to start the motorcycle.
  7. Remove or secure loose accessories: saddlebags, GPS units, phone mounts, tank bags.
  8. Fold in mirrors if possible to reduce the profile and prevent breakage.
  9. Disable the alarm system to prevent it from triggering during transit.
  10. Provide one key to the carrier and keep a spare for yourself.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle Carrier

  • Verify the carrier has experience specifically with motorcycle transport (not just cars)
  • Confirm they use proper wheel chocks and soft straps (not ratchet straps on chrome or painted surfaces)
  • Check their USDOT number and insurance coverage at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
  • Ask about their motorcycle-specific insurance coverage amount
  • Read reviews from other motorcycle owners who have used the carrier
  • Get everything in writing: pickup date, delivery estimate, total cost, insurance coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ship a non-running motorcycle?

Yes, but it costs extra, typically $75-$150 more. The carrier needs to manually push or winch the motorcycle onto the trailer. Inform the carrier that the bike is non-running when booking so they come prepared.

Is my motorcycle insured during shipping?

Yes. All USDOT-licensed carriers are required to carry cargo insurance. Coverage typically ranges from $50,000 to $250,000. For high-value motorcycles (Ducati Panigale, vintage Harleys, etc.), consider supplemental insurance.

Can I ship personal items with my motorcycle?

Generally, no. Saddlebags should be empty, and all loose items should be removed. Some carriers allow a small amount of gear in a locked hard case, but this varies. Ask before shipping.

How do I track my motorcycle during shipping?

Most carriers provide regular updates via phone or text. Some offer GPS tracking. Ask your carrier about their tracking and communication procedures when booking.

What if my motorcycle is damaged during shipping?

Document any damage at delivery on the Bill of Lading immediately. Take photographs. Contact the carrier within 24 hours to initiate a claim. Refer to our Insurance & Coverage guide for detailed claim instructions.

Can I ship a trike or three-wheeled motorcycle?

Yes, but trikes require more trailer space and typically cost 20-40% more than standard two-wheeled motorcycles. Crated or pallet shipping is recommended for trikes due to their wider stance and heavier weight. Confirm with the carrier that they have experience with three-wheeled vehicles.

How are electric motorcycles handled?

Electric motorcycles ship the same way as gas-powered bikes. There are no special battery regulations for domestic ground transport of production electric motorcycles. Make sure the battery is charged enough for the carrier to move the bike on and off the trailer. Inform the carrier if the bike requires any special startup procedures.

Types of Motorcycles We Ship

Our carrier network handles all types of motorcycles:

  • Cruisers: Harley-Davidson, Indian, Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha V-Star
  • Sport Bikes: Ducati Panigale, Kawasaki Ninja, Yamaha R1, Honda CBR
  • Touring: BMW R 1250 RT, Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Road Glide
  • Adventure/Dual Sport: BMW GS series, KTM Adventure, Honda Africa Twin
  • Dirt Bikes: Honda CRF, Yamaha YZ, KTM SX, Kawasaki KX
  • Vintage and Custom: Restored classics, bobbers, cafe racers, custom builds
  • Scooters and Mopeds: Vespa, Honda PCX, Yamaha XMAX

Ready to Ship? Get Your Free Quote

Contact Strong Young Movers today for a free, no-obligation auto transport quote. No hidden fees. No deposits required. Just honest pricing and reliable service.

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Or call us to speak with a transport specialist.

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