Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
People can easily buy anything they want on the internet, including motorcycles; their only challenge is moving them from where they purchase them to destination. Another challenge is when they have to move their bike to where they want to use it for Rally without having to ride it for that long distance.
What happens when motorcycle enthusiasts have to take their bikes across multiple states for a long ride? They get tired and can hardly enjoy the rally.
Here, motorcycle shipping companies can provide cost-effective solutions.
We have compiled some of the best names in the industry for you to research if you are looking for a company to transport your motorcycle safely. This article will examine five of the best motorcycle shipping companies on the market today.
Key Highlights
- Shipping your motorcycle is a great option to avoid riding long distances, especially for rallies or when moving to a new location.
- Enclosed trailers provide the best protection for your motorcycle during transport, while open trailers are a more budget-friendly option.
- Reputable motorcycle shipping companies offer insurance, real-time tracking, and secure transport for your prized vehicle.
A Quick Review: Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
AutoStar Transport Express | |
Montway Auto Shipping | |
Motorcycle Shippers | |
Haul Bikes | |
U Ship Auto Transport |
Our Methodology: Selecting the Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
To select the top motorcycle shipping companies, we conducted extensive research and analysis of various companies in the auto transport industry. We considered factors such as customer reviews, pricing, insurance coverage, shipping options, and delivery times. We also looked at each company’s experience, reputation, and customer service. Based on our findings, we narrowed down the list to the top motorcycle shipping companies that met our criteria for quality service and customer satisfaction. Our selection process was thorough and aimed at providing you with accurate and reliable information about the best motorcycle transport companies.
AutoStar Transport Express
Our Rating: 4.6
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: 4.3/5
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: 4.3
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: 4.2
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
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.
Shipping a Motorcycle: What does it cost?
The average motorcycle shipping cost is approximately $400 to $800 in order to ship an approximate 1,000 miles of motorcycle.
When it comes to motorcycle shipping quotes under 1,000 miles, carriers tend to provide quotes that range between $190 and $350 depending on the carrier. In addition, the cost of shipping a motorcycle will vary depending on the carrier you choose and other factors such as:
- More coverage.
- Travel distance.
- The motorcycle’s make and model.
- Shipment expediting.
- Automobile size.
- Transport type.
Example Costs of Shipping a Motorcycle
| Distance & Route | Shipping Method | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles, CA to Seattle, WA (1,150 miles) | Enclosed trailer | $650-$900 | Standard service, door-to-door delivery. |
| San Francisco, CA to Denver, CO (850 miles) | Open trailer | $400-$550 | Budget-friendly option, less protection from elements. |
| San Diego, CA to Austin, TX (1,400 miles) | Single bike carrier | $700-$1,000 | Secure transport for single motorcycle, fast delivery. |
| Sacramento, CA to New York City, NY (2,800 miles) | Multi-stop carrier | $1,000-$1,500 | Shared carrier, cheaper but potential delays. |
| Santa Monica, CA to Miami, FL (3,200 miles) | Brokered service | $1,200-$1,800 | Personalized quote based on specific needs and carrier options. |
Please note: These are just estimates and actual costs may vary depending on different factors.
Estimated Time to Ship a Motorcycle
While cost is a crucial factor in deciding to ship your motorcycle, the time it takes for your beloved steed to arrive at its new destination plays an equally important role. Understanding the timeframes involved can help you plan your move, manage expectations, and avoid that heart-wrenching feeling of wondering where your two-wheeled friend is currently roaming.
| Distance Range | Estimated Shipping Time |
|---|---|
| Under 500 miles | 1-2 days |
| 500-1,000 miles | 2-3 days |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | 3-4 days |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | 4-5 days |
| 2,000-2,500 miles | 5-6 days |
| Over 2,500 miles | 6-10 days |
Please Note: These are just estimated times and can fluctuate based on different factors.
How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Shipping
Before entrusting your motorcycle to a shipping company, it’s essential to ensure it is properly prepared for transport. Follow these steps to prepare your motorcycle:
- Clean your motorcycle thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Document the condition of your motorcycle by taking photographs from various angles.
- Disable the alarm system and remove any personal belongings or loose items.
- Check the tire pressure and ensure they are properly inflated.
- Remove any accessories or modifications that could get damaged during transit.
- Secure any loose parts or mirrors to prevent them from moving during transport.
- Disconnect the battery and drain the fuel to a safe level.
How Motorcycle Shipping Work?
Motorcycle shipping involves transporting motorcycles from one location to another, either domestically or internationally. This process is commonly used by individuals, dealerships, or manufacturers to move motorcycles over long distances without the need for the rider to cover the distance themselves. Here’s a detailed section on how motorcycle shipping typically works:
Choose a Shipping Method
- Open Transport: Motorcycles are loaded onto an open trailer and transported. This method is cost-effective but exposes the bikes to weather elements and road debris.
- Enclosed Transport: Motorcycles are loaded into an enclosed trailer, providing protection from the elements and enhanced security. This method is often preferred for valuable or vintage motorcycles.
Select a Shipping Company
- Research and choose a reputable motorcycle shipping company. Consider factors such as experience, customer reviews, insurance coverage, and pricing.
- Obtain quotes from different companies to compare costs and services.
Prepare the Motorcycle
- Clean the motorcycle thoroughly and document its current condition, including any existing damage, through photographs.
- Remove any accessories or loose items that could be damaged during transport.
- Disable the alarm system to prevent any accidental triggering during shipping.
Documentation and Paperwork
- Provide the necessary documentation, including the motorcycle’s title, registration, and any other required paperwork.
- Complete a condition report with the shipping company, documenting the motorcycle’s condition before shipping.
Schedule the Pickup
- Coordinate with the shipping company to schedule the pickup of the motorcycle from the origin location.
- Ensure someone is present to release the motorcycle to the shipping company, or provide necessary instructions for accessing the bike.
Transportation
- The motorcycle is loaded onto the chosen transport vehicle, either an open or enclosed trailer.
- Secure straps, wheel chocks, and other safety measures are used to ensure the motorcycle stays in place during transit.
Tracking and Communication
- Reputable shipping companies provide tracking services, allowing customers to monitor the progress of their motorcycle in real-time.
- Regular communication with the shipping company ensures updates and resolves any issues that may arise during transportation.
Delivery at Destination
- Once the motorcycle reaches its destination, a representative from the shipping company will coordinate the delivery.
- The recipient should inspect the motorcycle for any damage and compare its condition to the documented state at the origin.
Final Documentation
- Complete any final paperwork, such as confirming the delivery and signing off on the condition of the motorcycle upon arrival.
- Ensure all documentation is in order for the release of the motorcycle.
Insurance Coverage
- Verify the insurance coverage provided by the shipping company. It’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions of the insurance policy and file a claim promptly if any damage occurs during transit.
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
In conclusion, motorcycle shipping companies play a vital role in safely transporting motorcycles over long distances. The review of industry leaders like AutoStar Transport Express, Montway, HaulBikes, Motorcycle Shippers, and uShip highlights the varied options available, each offering unique features such as enclosed trailers and real-time tracking. These companies address the challenges of extensive rides, providing efficient solutions for enthusiasts and buyers. Understanding factors like costs, shipping times, and proper motorcycle preparation enhances the overall appreciation of these services. Ultimately, motorcycle shipping companies make it convenient for individuals to enjoy rallies or relocate without the complexities of covering significant distances, making them invaluable partners for motorcycle enthusiasts.
FAQs
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle?
Shipping times can vary depending on the distance and the shipping company. On average, it takes between 1 to 2 weeks for domestic shipments and longer for international shipments.
Is motorcycle shipping expensive?
The cost of shipping a motorcycle depends on various factors such as distance, destination, and the specific services required. It is recommended to obtain quotes from multiple companies to compare prices.
Can I track the progress of my motorcycle shipment?
Many motorcycle shipping companies provide tracking services that allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment online. Check with the company beforehand to ensure they offer this feature.
Do motorcycle shipping companies provide insurance?
Most reputable motorcycle shipping companies provide insurance coverage for your motorcycle during transit. However, it’s essential to review the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.
Can I ship my motorcycle internationally?
Yes, many motorcycle shipping companies offer international shipping services. However, the process and requirements may vary depending on the destination country. It’s important to research and comply with the specific regulations.
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.
