Riding through open roads with the wind in your hair is pure freedom – you and the machine cruising into adventure. But transporting your precious set of wheels safely to those roads can cramp your style. Wouldn’t it be great just to hop on and ride without worrying about how your bike will get there?
We’ll handle packing it up and trucking it over so you’re stress-free. Whether relocating cross-country or picking up a new ride, we make motorcycle shipping smooth and simple. Forget navigating couriers and complicated logistics. Get on the road faster with our expert transport services, especially for 2-wheelers.
What is Motorcycle Shipping
Motorcycle shipping simply means having your bike professionally transported instead of riding it to your destination. Specialized motorcycle shipping companies like us safely haul motorcycles across town or clear across the country using truck and trailer equipment designed specifically for bikes.
It may sound easier just to gas up and go for a long cruise to your end location. But between weather, breakdowns, and road hazards, that’s a big gamble. Riding long distances risks damaging your motorcycle’s mechanical parts, tires, paint, and more. However, with motorcycle shipping, your beauty arrives safe, sound, and ready to roll – not worn out before the real adventures even start!
Our seasoned transport experts handle every detail, from properly securing your motorcycle in the truck to delivering on time with white glove service. No need to stress about anything when you put your ride in our capable hands! We provide door-to-door pickup and transport, complete with real-time tracking and status emails, so you always feel at ease during shipment. Our nationwide network of screened professionals makes motorcycle delivery completely hassle- and worry-free!
Types of Motorcycle Shipping Services
Not all bikes – or riders – are similar. That’s why we offer a range of nationwide motorcycle shipping options to get your bike where it needs to go safely.
Open Motorcycle Shipping
This budget-friendly transport method places your motorcycle upright on an open-air trailer or a rack exposed to the elements. It’s the most affordable way to go since your bike doesn’t occupy the space needed for other items in enclosed trucks.
Enclosed Motorcycle Shipping
For more security and protection, enclosed truck transport places your bike inside a covered semi-truck trailer so it stays clean and guarded. It shields your motorcycle from weather, debris, and other standard road hazards you’d encounter riding long distances.
Enclosed shipping is recommended for vintage, custom, or high-value bikes, delicate racing models, or cycles with aftermarket parts. The locked space deters theft attempts during pit stops while preventing scrape damage that may occur when loading/unloading open carriers.
Door-to-Door Delivery
Both open and enclosed truck shipping can be coordinated as direct door-to-door delivery, so you don’t have to budge an inch! No need to ride over and drop off/pick up your cycle – our drivers come straight to your home to seamlessly load or unload. We can also deliver right to event venues, dealerships, or storage facilities.
When Would You Need to Ship
Cross-Country Relocation Transportation: Starting life in a new city? We’ll safely get both you and your bike coast to coast! No need to choose between the open road trip of a lifetime or transporting your motorcycle – leave the long haul to us. We organize hassle-free pickup and delivery so your wheels await once your boots hit the ground.
Secure New/Custom Bike Delivery: Buying unseen or customizing your dream ride? Avoid an anxious first test drive in traffic – let us deliver your shiny new toy, sealed and secure, straight from the showroom or workshop. We’ll handle the maiden voyage while you anxiously track the shipment countdown to the new bike day!
Motorcycle Dealer Transfers: Expanding your dealership inventory? We facilitate fleet transfers transporting multiple motorcycles in one efficient shipment on our custom racking. No wasting staff hours individually riding purchases back to the lot from auctions or other locations. We’ll have the herd all wrangled and delivered, ready to show off!
Event & Rally Transport: Got a big biker bash on the calendar? Let us take the hassle out of travel logistics so you can focus on fun, not packing. We’ll gently transport your motorcycle to events near and far, then store it securely on-site until you’re ready to saddle back up and head home! No detracting from that Easy Rider glory after an epic rally!
Motorcycle Shipping Cost
Unlike stuffing boxes into a truck, transporting two-wheelers requires careful handling and specialized equipment. Several factors determine motorcycle shipping costs:
Distance and Route
Cross-country coast-to-coast transport generally starts around $600+ for a single standard bike. But shipping within the same region or state normally ranges from $350-$450 for under 500-600 miles. Route difficulty also plays into rate differences – shipping to remote rural areas costs more than metropolitan hubs accessible via highway.
Open vs. Enclosed Shipping
Enclosed trailers that fully protect motorcycles from weather and road debris cost more than open-air exposed carriers. For example, calculate ~$100+ extra for enclosed shipping on top of the base open transport rate for your route.
Motorcycle Size and Weight
Larger touring, cruising, and trike models take up more space than lightweight builds. Oversized heavyweight motorcycles often add a surcharge for extra room needed versus hauling a compact two-wheeler. Custom building racks to brace monster bikes also bumps up the rate.
Similarly, shipping bulkier trikes, quads, or sidecars with extra components adds complexity versus standard two-wheel transports. The space/handling difference tacks on roughly $100+ over typical motorcycle quotes.
To give you a better idea, here’s what riders actually paid us for popular routes:
| Route | Distance (Miles) | Transport Type | Cost ($) | Description |
| Miami to NYC | 1,100 | Enclosed | $925 | For oversized or fragile bikes requiring premium protection. |
| Dallas to Orlando | 1,100 | Open | $675 | Affordable option for standard two-wheel motorcycles. |
| Denver to Kansas City | 500 | Open | $425 | Shorter haul for standard bikes with less need for protection. |
| Seattle to San Francisco | 800 | Enclosed | $850 | Enclosed transport for added safety during a mid-range trip. |
| Wisconsin to Pennsylvania (Trike) | 900 | Enclosed (Trike) | $1,100 | Specialized transport for a larger trike, requiring more space and handling adjustments. |
Keep in mind rates fluctuate frequently based on fuel prices, seasonal demand, routing availability, and other aspects. The easiest way to dial in current pricing is getting a free, no-obligation motorcycle shipping quote for your exact shipment specifics.
How to Prepare for Motorcycle Shipping
Getting your motorcycle securely from point A to B takes strategic coordination. Here are your key steps so you know what to expect when booking our motorcycle transport service:
✔️ Get a Quote
The process starts by submitting details for a free, no-obligation quote. Provide specifics like motorcycle year, make and model, origin/destination cities, and desired transport mode (open or enclosed). It gives pricing options for the best route and trailer space required. Lock in your quote whenever you’re ready!
✔️ Schedule Date
Choose ship dates accounting for packing/unpacking days on either end. We recommend securing transport 1-2 weeks in advance for best pricing and availability. For a cross-country relocation, build an extra buffer room in case of potential delays.
✔️ Prep Your Motorcycle
Proper preparation prevents poor performance! Follow the checklist to ship your motorcycle inspection-ready:
- Check and top off fluid levels;
- Clean thoroughly, checking for leaks;
- Ensure battery connects and tires have good tread;
- Disable alarms and fuel valves;
- Remove any loose accessories or saddle bags.
It protects against hazards like leaks, fumes, or dislodged items during loading/unloading and transport.
✔️ Sit Back and Track Progress
Once our trucker collects your motorcycle, kickstands up on the delivery countdown! Monitor real-time pickup confirmation and location updates via email and text until the second your bike pulls safely into the destination. Our around-the-clock support is standing by if any questions arise en route to your door.
Why Choose Shipaa for Motorcycle Shipping
Biker-Friendly Mindset
We treat your motorcycle like our own! No odd looks at special requests to blanket your custom paint job. We get it – and will gently handle your bike through every mile.
Motorcycle Shipping Specialists
Successfully moving bikes is all we do – no farm equipment or furniture sharing the trailer! Our purpose-built equipment and team prevent damage other movers may overlook loading motorcycles like regular cargo.
Real Riders Design Our System
Our logistics process is designed by veteran riders factoring in key nuances – not just strapping it down willy-nilly! We securely anchor and protect all critical components from the clutch to the muffler tip.
White Glove Customer Service
Friendly motorcycle transport experts guide your shipment from start to finish – no phone tag with dispatchers! Reach your dedicated agent anytime with questions and receive regular delivery updates.
Door-to-Door Convenience
Kickstands up not required during transport! We offer true door to door pickup and delivery to your location so your motorcycle awaits rested and ready to rip.
Affordable Pricing
Our world-class service comes without the world-class price tag! Competitive, transparent quotes with no surprise fees or fuel surcharges down the road.
Customer Testimonials
See What Other Riders Are Saying About Our Motorcycle Shipping:
“I was moving clear across the country for a new job and dreaded transporting my beloved Harley that far. But Shipaa made it practically effortless. Their drivers showed up on time at both ends, kept me updated by text, and most importantly, got my motorcycle there without a scratch or speck of dust!” – Peter J., Los Angeles, CA.
“After my custom chopper was finally complete, I wanted to unveil it at a major Las Vegas biker fest with maximum impact not risk it riding hundreds of miles out there. Shipaa handled packing and enclosed truck transport from my Texas garage like true white glove pros. My baby shone brighter than the strip!” – Dale Q., Amarillo, TX.
“Getting vintage Italian sport bikes to our Tampa dealership always made me nervous relying on amateur transport in the past. But Shipaa changed all that quickly. Their team transports our inventory purchases gently, efficiently, and, most importantly – on time every time. Molto bene!” – Giovanni C., Tampa Bay FL
“Racing light bikes built for speed cross country is just begging for damage so I used to only buy and ride in my region – until discovering Shipaa! Their open-air transport got my featherweight rocket plus 2 spares to events nationwide completely intact with no scrapes or scuffs.” – Mandy J., Detroit, MI.
“People never believe me when I say I bought my Indian Chieftain online sight unseen. But Shipaa made the leap of faith easy. Their drivers sent photos of the bike at its origin, so I knew she was a beauty. And they safely delivered to my driveway 3 days after purchase despite a snowstorm, keeping me looped in on GPS progress the whole way.” – Rick P., Chicago, IL.
“Between kids’ soccer tournaments, work trips, and juggling life’s craziness, it’s hard to plan a long couples bike trip. But Shipaa lets us chase adventure on short notice! I just book their door-to-door motorcycle shipping to event sites in advance!” – Sasha & Javier R., New York, NY.
FAQs on Motorcycle Shipping
❓ How long does it take to ship a motorcycle?
Transit time varies based on distance and destination, but we can get your bike delivered in as little as 2-5 days. Cross-country coast-to-coast transport may take up to two weeks. Your coordinator provides accurate lead times when you get your complimentary quote.
❓ What preparations are needed before shipping?
Proper preparation is very important! We recommend:
- Drain all fluids besides engine oil and disconnect the battery
- Ensure tires are properly inflated and brakes disabled
- Remove any loose accessories that may come off during transit
- Crate the motorcycle or tie it down securely on a pallet
❓ What insurance options are available?
We offer insurance plans tailored to motorcycles, including replacement value coverage, guaranteed declared value, and cargo loss. Options start under $100 to insure average bikes and go up to several thousand dollars for vintage, collectible, or luxury motorcycles.
❓ How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle?
Cost varies based on pickup/drop-off locations, transit distance, trailer type (open or enclosed), ship date flexibility, and other factors. Our best motorcycle shipping company offers instant online quotes for routes across the US starting under $500 in most cases. Schedule a few months in advance, and prices can be even lower!
