Best motorcycle shipping companies

Our 4 best motorcycle shipping companies

How to choose a motorcycle shipping company

With so many options available, choosing a motorcycle shipping company can be challenging. Many companies are brokers that work with partner companies for the actual transportation, so it’s important to find a company that vets its shippers and keeps your best interests in mind.

Consider the following to find the right option for you:

• Cost: Gather quotes from multiple shipping companies and compare their prices. Remember to balance cost with the quality of service provided.
• Insurance coverage: Ensure the insurance provides sufficient coverage, review the liability terms, and verify licensing. Auto transporters and brokers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a six-digit MC Docket number (search these on the FMCSA licensing website). Also, make sure the carrier has a USDOT number. There may be state-specific licensing requirements for carriers, too.
• Delivery options: Consider whether the company offers door-to-door or terminal-to-terminal delivery. Ask about estimated transit times and expedited shipping options if you have time constraints.
• Customer support and communication: Choose a company with responsive customer service to address your concerns promptly. Clear communication keeps you informed regarding the progress of your shipment.
• Reputation and customer reviews: Look for professionalism, reliability and adherence to delivery timelines, according to Joan Denizot, CEO and founder of Zize Bikes. “By considering these key criteria and opting for a shipping company that excels in these areas, individuals can have peace of mind knowing their motorcycles are in capable hands,” she said.

How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle?

Motorcycle shipping costs depend on several factors, including distance of travel and shipping method. The average cost to ship a motorcycle in the U.S. a distance of 1,000 miles is $500 to $700. The average cost to ship a motorcycle internationally ranges from $800 to $3,000 or more.

It helps to know all the variables that will affect shipping cost so you can get an accurate motorcycle shipping estimate. The cost of shipping a motorcycle is based on several factors, including:

• The method of transport: Most companies offer only enclosed shipping for motorcycles, though a few offer both enclosed and open transport options for those willing to expose their bike to the elements in exchange for a lower shipping cost.
• The weight of your motorcycle: The weight of the bike can affect the shipping cost. Heavier bikes are typically more expensive to ship than lighter bikes.
• The time of year: The season you’re shipping may impact the quoted rate. Summer and early fall are more popular times of year for vehicle transport, and the higher demand typically leads to higher prices.
• Where the vehicle is picked up and delivered: The specific location where your bike will be shipped matters too. Urban shipments tend to be less expensive than remote or rural deliveries. Companies may also offer an option of door-to-door delivery or the use of distribution centers — using distribution centers requires more effort from you but is less expensive.
• The total distance of transport: How far you're shipping your bike will impact cost. Typical motorcycle shipping rates in the U.S. are between 50 cents and $1.50 a mile. Longer trips tend to cost less per mile (though the added mileage means the total cost is more expensive).

Motorcycle shipping insurance costs

While shipping companies are required to carry insurance, purchasing supplemental insurance is a good idea for high-value motorcycles.

Motorcycle transporters are required to carry liability and cargo insurance to cover theft or damage, so the cost of insurance is included in the initial quote. A typical insurance cost is 50 cents per pound, but this could be higher for heavier or specialty motorcycles.

Minimum insurance amounts are established by the FMCSA; according to federal guidelines, carriers must maintain coverage of $750,000 or more. However, this amount applies to all the motorcycles or vehicles the carrier is transporting — not just your bike.

Ask for proof of insurance prior to making arrangements with the company, and inquire about what specifically that insurance covers. If you have a very valuable or vintage bike, this is an especially important step. You may also want to check with your own personal insurance provider to see if it will provide any additional coverage when you transport your motorcycle.

How to save money when shipping your motorcycle

Most motorcycle transport companies charge relatively similar costs. However, with a little bit of thinking ahead, you can save some money when shipping your motorcycle:

• Try open shipping: If you’re not overly concerned with the risk of light damage to your bike, then consider open shipping. It’s cheaper than enclosed shipping — though enclosed shipping provides much better protection.
• Ship in the winter: If timing is not as big of an issue for you, ship your bike in the winter. This is the offseason for motorcycle and car shipping, and your quote will be lower.
• Plan ahead: The more lenient you are with the shipment’s arrival time, the less it costs to transport your bike. Waiting until the last second to book transport, especially if you have to opt for expedited shipping, typically costs much more.

» WHICH ONE IS RIGHT? Open vs. enclosed shipping

Although it’s great to save money, you shouldn’t necessarily just go with the lowest quote offered to you. A quote that's significantly lower than others is often hiding additional fees, so be careful.

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