Top 12 Motorcycle Shipping Companies
Moving a motorcycle, whether for relocation, a rally, or after an online purchase, presents challenges, especially over long distances. Motorcycle shipping companies offer a convenient and secure way to transport bikes without the wear and tear of riding. With the growing demand for motorcycle shipping, there are now many options that cater to different needs and budgets.
We’ve researched the top motorcycle shipping companies, evaluating their services, pricing, and reliability. This guide simplifies the process, helping you choose a company that ensures your bike arrives safely and efficiently, whether you’re shipping across states or nationwide.
Key Highlights
- Shipping your motorcycle offers a convenient alternative to riding long distances, making it ideal for events like rallies or relocating across the country.
- Enclosed trailers offer maximum protection for your motorcycle during transit, safeguarding it from weather and road debris, while open trailers provide a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious riders.
- Top motorcycle shipping companies offer essential features like insurance coverage, GPS tracking, and secure handling to ensure your bike arrives in perfect condition.
Top Motorcycle Shipping Companies: Featured Partners
AutoStar Transport Express | |
Montway Auto Shipping | |
Motorcycle Shippers | |
Haul Bikes | |
U Ship Auto Transport | |
Mercury Auto Transport | |
AmeriFreight | |
SGT Auto Transport | |
Nexus Auto Transport | |
Easy Auto Ship | |
American Auto Shipping | |
CitizenShipper |
Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
- AutoStar Transport Express
- Montway Auto Transport
- Motorcycle Shippers
- Haul Bikes
- U Ship Auto Transport
- Mercury Auto Transport
- AmeriFreight
- SGT Auto Transport
- Nexus Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- American Auto Shipping
- CitizenShipper
Our Methodology: How We Chose the Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
We researched and analyzed top motorcycle shipping companies, considering factors like customer reviews, pricing, insurance coverage, shipping options, and delivery times. We also evaluated each company’s experience, reputation, and customer service. From this, we selected companies that excel in both service quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring you have the most reliable information on the best transport options.
AutoStar Transport Express
Our Rating: 4.2/5
4.2
A-
5.0
4.5
Why We Choose It?
When it comes to auto transport, this company is one of our favorites. The AutoStar Transport Express is an excellent company that will make sure your motorcycle makes it from point A to point B without any hassles.
Whenever they transport motorcycles, they use enclosed carriers, so you won’t have to worry about road debris damaging your bike.
AutoStar Transport Express professionals handle every motorcycle move as if it were a small sedan or SUV. Because of this, motorcycles are not limited in size, weight, or height.
With AutoStar Transport Express, you can choose from many options, read quality reviews, and set the price you want. The company provides many options for motorcycle transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Motorcycles are only shipped in enclosed trailers.
- Real-time tracking is provided by GPS-enabled carriers.
- Provides services in all 50 states.
- Shipping prices are not affected by motorcycle size.
- With VIP express shipping, you get premium service.
Cons
- Do not Offer Expedited Shipping
Montway Auto Transport
Our Rating: 4.0/5
4.7
A+
5.0
4.2
Why We Choose It?
Montway, you can save money on your cash payment whether you are a military member, a student, or a senior.
When you ship your motorcycle with Montway Auto Transport, you can take advantage of a number of discounts.
Keep your budget in mind, but ask exactly what’s available. It’s likely that Montway will be less expensive than other shippers due to these discounts.
Whether it’s the summer sun or the mess of winter, the company uses enclosed trailers to protect your bike. Motorcycles of every size are also shipped in a car-sized spot, so there’s less chance of damage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Multiple motorcycle discounts are available.
- Your motorcycle’s size does not affect the price.
- Motorcycles of all sizes are accepted.
- Discounts for students, military personnel, etc.
Cons
- No specialized motorcycle transport.
- Motorcycle shipping services are more expensive than those offered by other companies.
Motorcycle Shippers
Our Rating: 3.6
3.7
A+
X
X
Why We Choose It?
Motorcycle Shippers offers instant online quotes for moving your motorcycle. The company takes pride in doing the job right every time. Motorcycle delivery service, reasonable valuation coverage, and a quote generator are some of the benefits offered by this company.
Using this company, you do not have to worry about your vehicle at all since they will take care of everything.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A few seconds to get a quote.
- Planned pickup and delivery dates.
- Motorcycles of all sizes are accepted.
- Email addresses are not required for instant quotes.
Cons
- The size of bikes is restricted.
- A real-time tracking system is not available for shipments.
- Motorcycles that are too large cannot be serviced.
Haul Bikes
Our Rating: 3.0/5
3.1
A-
5.0
X
Why We Choose It?
The Haul Bikes company specializes in the transportation of motorcycles. Their drivers are certified, so they deliver your bike with special care.
Your vehicle will also be secured during transit with specialized equipment. Haul Bikes is not a broker; it is a transportation company.
This company is known for its low level of damage claims because it provides bikers with specialized, modern technology and excellent customer service.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Trailers that are covered.
- There are no hidden fees.
- Motorcycles of all sizes are accepted.
- Deliveries on time.
Cons
- The transit time is a little longer.
- It is not allowed to ride bikes taller than 58.
- Does not provide service to some states.
U Ship Auto Transport
Our Rating: 4.0/5
X
A+
3.0
X
Why We Choose It?
It is important to note that uShip is neither a motorcycle carrier nor a motorcycle broker, which makes it unique from other motorcycle shipping companies.
This online marketplace for bike shippers lets you find the most affordable and safest drivers rather than relying on brokers.
uShip doesn’t offer guaranteed quotes and its customer service is a bit slow, but you can find a shipper in all 50 states.
The company operates instead as a marketplace for carriers to bid on customers’ shipments. Shippers can bid on your shipment for you, or you can select from their offers. When you list your motorcycle and its shipping details on uShip, you will be connected with the best motorcycle shippers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compare multiple shipping quotes.
- Relocation services are available.
- You can name your price.
- Shippers’ quotes instantly.
Cons
- It is not the main delivery company.
- A fee of $30 to $135 is undefined for uShip.
Mercury Auto Transport
Our Rating: 4.7/5
4.2
A+
4.4
4.5
Why Choose Mercury Auto Transport?
Mercury Auto Transport is a trusted motorcycle shipping broker with a solid track record since 2007. The company is well-regarded for its competitive pricing, and after evaluating rates from 21 different shipping providers, we found Mercury to offer some of the most cost-effective options for various shipment types and distances.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable shipping rates
- Immediate online quotes
- Nationwide coverage
Cons
- No terminal-to-terminal shipping options
- Limited tracking features
- No international shipping services
AmeriFreight
Our Rating: 4.7/5
4.6
A+
4.8
4.8
Why Choose AmeriFreight?
Our research shows AmeriFreight offers some of the most affordable motorcycle shipping rates for distances under 1,500 miles. Along with being cost-effective, AmeriFreight is well-regarded as an auto transport broker with a reputation for connecting consumers with a network of trustworthy carriers.
The company stands out for its transparent pricing and price guarantee, offering a wide range of services including shipping for motorcycles, cars, trailers, RVs, boats, classic cars, and trucks across all 50 states and Canada. Additionally, AmeriFreight provides AFta gap coverage to protect against unexpected damages, ensuring peace of mind throughout transportation.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Guaranteed rates
- Hassle-free cancellations
- Convenient door-to-door delivery
Cons
- No global shipping
- No live GPS tracking
- Third-party transportation service
SGT Auto Transport
Our Rating: 4.7/5
4.1
A
4.2
4.3
Why Choose SGT Auto Transport?
Why Choose SGT Auto Transport?
SGT Auto Transport stands out by offering motorcycle shipping to 49 states, though Alaska is omitted. The company is unique in providing 24/7 customer support, price matching, and various customer discounts. However, it is important to note that SGT Auto Transport has the highest rates for motorcycle shipping compared to other companies in our review.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Price match guarantee
- Convenient door-to-door delivery
- Simple shipment status updates
Cons
- Vehicles are transported by third parties
- No service to or from Alaska
- Lacks real-time tracking
Nexus Auto Transport
Our Rating: 4.4/5
4.3
A+
4.5
4.4
Why Choose Nexus Auto Transport?
Nexus Auto Transport stands out as a top choice for motorcycle shipping due to its extensive network of over 59,000 carriers. This allows Nexus to offer competitive pricing and expedited shipping, a feature not commonly found with other motorcycle transport companies. For motorbike owners who need quick and reliable transport, Nexus offers a dependable option.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable shipping rates
- Specializes in shipping vehicles like motorcycles
- Partners with over 59,000 vetted carriers
Cons
- Inconsistent response to negative reviews
- Does not guarantee pickup or delivery dates
Easy Auto Ship
Our Rating: 4.6/5
4.5
A+
4.6
4.6
Why Choose Easy Auto Ship?
Easy Auto Ship is a well-regarded shipping broker known for its door-to-door vehicle transport and international shipping services for cars and motorcycles. With coverage across all 50 states and the capability to manage international relocations, Easy Auto Ship delivers extensive solutions for all your vehicle shipping requirements.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Handles a wide variety of vehicles
- Offers door-to-door service
- Provides international shipping options
Cons
- No GPS tracking available
- Dependent on third-party carriers, which can impact service quality
- More expensive than some other providers
American Auto Shipping
Our Rating: 4.3/5
4.3
A+
4.5
4.4
Why Choose American Auto Shipping?
American Auto Shipping is recognized for its extensive range of services and strong dedication to customer satisfaction. The company distinguishes itself with its guaranteed pricing model, ensuring that the initial quote is the final amount you pay, with no hidden fees.
It provides various services, including both open and enclosed transport, and can handle a diverse array of vehicles such as standard cars, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, RVs, and even heavy-duty equipment. With coverage across all 50 states, American Auto Shipping emphasizes flexibility and dependability in vehicle transport.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ships a wide variety of vehicles
- Provides guaranteed pricing
- Comprehensive coverage and reimbursement policies
Cons
- No GPS tracking available
- No international shipping options
CitizenShipper
Our Rating: 4.5/5
4.4
A+
4.2
4.5
Why Choose CitizenShipper?
CitizenShipper offers a unique platform that allows you to post motorcycle shipments and receive free quotes easily. You can review driver profiles, read customer reviews, and communicate directly with transporters, often securing lower prices than traditional shippers. The platform is user-friendly, with no size restrictions and direct interaction with carriers for added peace of mind.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy and quick listing process
- Generally more affordable than traditional shipping companies
- No restrictions on vehicle size
- Direct communication with transporters for personalized service
Cons
- Not specialized exclusively in motorcycle transport
Motorcycle Shipping Cost: What You Need to Know
Shipping a motorcycle is about both safeguarding your investment and handling logistics. On average, motorcycle shipping costs around $600, though prices range from $200 for shorter distances to $1,100 for cross-country moves. Several key factors influence these costs:
Factors Influencing Motorcycle Shipping Costs
- Distance: Longer distances increase the cost, making cross-country transport more expensive.
- Transport Type: Enclosed shipping offers better protection but costs more than open transport.
- Pickup & Delivery Locations: Remote or hard-to-reach areas may incur higher fees.
- Seasonal Demand: Prices often rise during peak seasons when demand for shipping is higher.
- Size & Weight: Larger, heavier motorcycles may cost more to transport.
- Insurance Coverage: Adding extra insurance for more protection can increase your shipping cost.
- Expedited Shipping: Faster delivery options are available for an additional charge.
By understanding these factors, you can better estimate your motorcycle shipping costs and choose the best service to meet your needs.
Motorcycle Shipping Cost Breakdown
| Shipping Route | Distance | Shipping Method | Estimated Door-to-Door Cost | Estimated Distribution Center Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA to New York, NY | 2,800 miles | Enclosed trailer | $1,200 – $1,300 | $1,100 – $1,150 | Full protection and long-distance service. |
| New York, NY to Chicago, IL | 790 miles | Open trailer | $850 – $950 | $800 – $850 | Budget-friendly for mid-distance routes. |
| Chicago, IL to Miami, FL | 1,370 miles | Open trailer | $900 – $1,000 | $850 – $950 | An affordable option for long-distance transport. |
| Miami, FL to Dallas, TX | 1,300 miles | Open trailer | $900 – $1,000 | $850 – $950 | Cost-effective for regional routes. |
| Dallas, TX to Boston, MA | 1,770 miles | Enclosed trailer | $1,050 – $1,150 | $900 – $1,000 | Extra protection for cross-country shipping. |
| Boston, MA to Seattle, WA | 2,500 miles | Multi-stop carrier | $1,100 – $1,250 | $1,050 – $1,100 | Shared carrier, lower cost but may include delays. |
| Seattle, WA to Los Angeles, CA | 1,150 miles | Single bike carrier | $850 – $1,000 | $800 – $900 | Fast and secure for single-bike transport. |
| Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA | 1,150 miles | Enclosed trailer | $650 – $900 | N/A | Standard door-to-door service with full protection. |
| San Francisco, CA to Denver, CO | 850 miles | Open trailer | $400 – $550 | N/A | A budget-friendly option for shorter distances. |
| Santa Monica, CA to Miami, FL | 3,200 miles | Brokered service | $1,200 – $1,800 | N/A | Customized quotes based on specific needs and availability. |
Please note: Costs vary based on distance, transport type, and location accessibility. Door-to-door services generally cost more than distribution center options. For the most accurate pricing, request personalized quotes from shipping companies.
Estimated Time to Ship a Motorcycle
| Distance Range | Estimated Shipping Time |
|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | 1-2 days |
| 500-1,000 miles | 2-3 days |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | 4-5 days |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | 3-5 days |
| 2,000-2,500 miles | 4-5 days |
| Over 2,500 miles | 5-6 days |
Please note: Shipping times are estimates and can vary based on factors such as the shipping method, route conditions, and demand. For precise timing, check with your shipping provider.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Shipping Company
To choose the best motorcycle shipping company, start by checking reviews and ratings for reliability. Compare services, and costs, and ensure the company is licensed and insured. Consider transport options (open vs. enclosed), delivery times, and whether expedited shipping is available. Evaluate pickup and delivery convenience, and confirm the company can handle any special requirements your motorcycle may have.
Best Motorcycle Shipping Methods: A Quick Guide
When shipping your motorcycle, choosing the right method is crucial. Here’s a concise guide to the main options:
Open Transport
- Transported on an open trailer.
- Budget-friendly, ideal for short distances or standard bikes.
Enclosed Transport
- Shipped in a closed container.
- Offers protection from weather and debris, is best for high-value or custom bikes.
Door-to-Door Service
- Direct pickup and delivery.
- Convenient but may cost more.
Terminal-to-Terminal Service
- More affordable, less convenient.
- Drop-off and pick-up at terminals.
Pros and Cons of Motorcycle Shipping
Shipping your motorcycle has its benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look at both:
Pros
- Safety: Professional transport ensures secure handling, reducing damage risk.
- Convenience: Avoid long-distance rides and save time, especially for relocations or purchases.
- Flexible Services: Options like door-to-door, enclosed transport, and expedited shipping cater to various needs.
Cons
- Cost: It can be pricey, particularly for shorter distances.
- Limited Control: Once shipped, handling and timing are out of your hands.
- Preparation: Pre-shipping tasks like draining fluids and removing accessories can be time-consuming..
How Does Motorcycle Shipping Work?
Motorcycle shipping is a process that allows for the safe transportation of motorcycles over long distances, typically for individuals, dealerships, or manufacturers. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it works:
1. Get a Quote
Request quotes from different companies to compare pricing and services.
2. Choose Shipping Method
- Open: Affordable, exposed to weather.
- Enclosed: Full protection, best for high-value bikes.
3. Select a Company
Review company reputation, pricing, and insurance options.
4. Prepare the Bike
Clean, photograph, remove accessories, and disable alarms.
5. Handle Documentation
Provide necessary paperwork and complete the condition report.
6. Schedule Pickup
Arrange pickup and provide access details.
7. Shipping
The bike is securely loaded and transported.
8. Track Shipment
Follow your bike’s progress with tracking updates.
9. Delivery & Inspection
Inspect the bike for any damage upon arrival.
10. Finalize
Complete paperwork and address any insurance claims if needed.
What is the Best way to choose a Motorcycle Shipping Company?
It is important for motorcycle shipping companies to work with vetted and insured motor carriers. Find companies with positive customer ratings, instant quotes, and additional insurance coverage for losses and damages that are cost-effective. Consider the company’s years in business, its industry ratings, and the number of motorcycles it ships each year. In this way, you can ensure that the company you’re working with is reputable and dependable.
Conclusion
Shipping your motorcycle? Picking the right company is key to a smooth, hassle-free process. The 12 top motorcycle shippers we feature offer options for all needs, from budget-friendly to enclosed transport for high-value bikes.
To choose wisely, consider pricing, customer service, and insurance. Compare quotes and services to pick a provider that will safely get your bike to its destination.
FAQs
Can I track my motorcycle shipment?
Yes, most reputable motorcycle shipping companies offer tracking services. This allows you to monitor your bike’s progress in real-time and stay informed throughout the shipping process.
Is insurance included in motorcycle shipping?
Many motorcycle shipping companies provide basic insurance coverage, but it’s important to verify the details. For added protection, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover any potential damage during transit.
Can I ship my motorcycle internationally?
Yes, international motorcycle shipping is available. However, it involves additional complexities such as customs regulations and higher costs. Ensure you choose a company experienced in handling international shipments.
a4AutoTransport is a group of auto transport researchers and experts that comes in handy for anyone who wants to move their car/vehicle without putting extra miles on the odometer. At a4AutoTransport, We researched over a hundred car shipping companies, interviewed real customers and industry leaders, and collected nearly 500 quotes to find the nation’s best auto transport companies. With our combined 5 years of industry experience and research, we’ll help you find the right car shipper for your budget.
