Whether you're moving across the country, buying a bike from a different state, or sending your prized motorcycle to a rally or buyer, motorcycle shipping services offer a safe and efficient way to transport your ride without adding unnecessary miles. While many riders love the open road, there are times when shipping makes more sense than riding. Here's everything you need to know to make sure your bike gets from point A to point B—without a scratch.

Why Ship a Motorcycle?

People use motorcycle shipping services for all kinds of reasons:

• Cross-country moves or job relocations
• Online purchases or sales from out-of-state sellers
• Seasonal travel (snowbirds heading south)
• Motorcycle rallies and events
• Military relocations (PCS moves)
• Collector or vintage bike preservation

Instead of riding long distances or risking damage on a trailer, shipping provides peace of mind and professional handling.

Types of Motorcycle Shipping

There are two primary ways to ship a motorcycle:

1. Open Transport

This is the most budget-friendly method. Your bike is secured on an open trailer—often with other vehicles. It’s exposed to weather, but perfectly safe for most bikes.

2. Enclosed Transport

Here, your motorcycle is shipped in a covered trailer. This is ideal for high-value, custom, or vintage bikes that need extra protection from weather, road debris, and theft.

Some companies also offer crated shipping, where your motorcycle is packed in a custom crate for additional security.

What to Look for in a Motorcycle Shipping Company

Not all carriers are created equal. Here’s what you should check before booking:

• Insurance coverage – Is your bike fully insured during transit?
• Experience with motorcycles – Do they specialize in bikes, or is it a side service?
• Tracking and communication – Will you be able to monitor the progress?
• Customer reviews – What do other riders say?
• Pickup and delivery flexibility – Do they offer door-to-door service?

Prepping Your Bike for Shipping

Before your motorcycle is loaded up, you'll need to do a few things:

• Wash it down – This helps document the bike's condition before shipping.
• Take photos – Capture images from all angles for insurance purposes.
• Remove loose items – Saddlebags, GPS units, and other removable parts should be taken off.
• Check fluids and tire pressure – Most shippers recommend draining the tank to a quarter full.
• Disable the alarm – You don’t want it going off mid-transit!

How Much Does It Cost?

Motorcycle shipping costs vary based on distance, method, and bike size. On average:

• Local transport (under 500 miles): $300–$500
• Cross-country (2,000+ miles): $600–$1,200
• Enclosed transport adds 30–50% more

Additional services like expedited shipping or crating may add to the price.

Final Thoughts

Motorcycle shipping services are a lifesaver for riders who want to move their bike without the wear, tear, or stress of the road. Whether you're a collector, casual cruiser, or long-distance mover, choosing the right shipping company ensures your motorcycle arrives safe, secure, and ready to ride.

If your bike’s going places—you don’t always have to ride it there. Sometimes, the smoothest ride is in the back of a truck.