Motorcycle Shipping — Specialized Transport for Your Bike
Cars aren't the only thing we move. Ship your motorcycle nationwide through carriers experienced in proper bike securing and handling — from cruisers to sport bikes to vintage collector motorcycles.
Specialized Equipment
Wheel Chocks & Soft Tie-Downs
What Is Motorcycle Shipping?
Motorcycles require different handling than cars — they need to be properly secured upright (or in a crate, depending on the method) using specialized tie-down equipment designed specifically for two wheels, not four.
Open Motorcycle Trailer
The bike is secured upright using wheel chocks and soft tie-down straps on a trailer built for bikes. It's the most common and affordable option for daily-rider motorcycles.
Crated Shipping
The motorcycle is secured inside a wooden or metal crate for maximum protection, most common for long-distance or high-value bike shipments.
How Motorcycle Shipping Works
A clear 6-step process designed to protect your motorcycle every mile of the journey.
Get an instant quote
Enter your pickup/delivery details and motorcycle information (make, model, year, and whether it's operable).
Reservation fee details
Your assigned responsible agent will directly communicate the exact reservation fee amount and payment schedule.
Matched with an experienced carrier
Your shipment is posted to carriers in our network specifically equipped for bike transport.
Proper securing at pickup
The carrier uses wheel chocks and soft tie-downs (or crating) to secure your motorcycle correctly before departure.
Tracked transit
Stay updated on your shipment's progress from pickup to delivery.
Careful delivery
Final joint inspection and your motorcycle is unloaded and ready to ride.
What Affects Motorcycle Shipping Pricing?
Core factors that calculate your specific bike shipment quote:
Distance
Total distance in miles between pickup and delivery locations.
Motorcycle Size & Weight
A small commuter bike ships differently than a large touring motorcycle or custom chopper.
Shipping Method
Standard tie-down transport vs. crated shipping (crating adds cost due to materials and labor).
Operability
Non-running motorcycles require special loading equipment.
Open Tie-Down vs. Crated Shipping — Which Do You Need?
Compare the two primary motorcycle transport methods:
| Open Tie-Down Transport | Crated Shipping | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Standard daily-rider and most motorcycles | High-value, vintage, or collector motorcycles |
| Protection | Secured upright, exposed to elements | Fully enclosed in a protective crate |
| Cost | More affordable | Higher — crating materials & labor |
| Availability | Wider carrier availability | More specialized, arranged on request |
Bottom line:
Most motorcycles ship safely and affordably via standard tie-down transport. Crating is worth considering for a rare, vintage, or especially high-value bike.
Typical Delivery Timelines
Carriers average 500–700 miles per day of driving:
1 – 3 days
Short routes / neighboring states
3 – 5 days
Medium distance regional routes
5 – 9 days
Coast-to-coast relocations
What's Included With Every Motorcycle Shipment
Standard protections and services included on every order:
Is Motorcycle Shipping Right for You?
Motorcycle shipping is a great fit if:
- You're relocating and don't want to ride long-distance yourself.
- You bought or sold a motorcycle remotely.
- You're moving a bike seasonally (riding season relocations).
- Your motorcycle is non-running and needs specialized loading.
- You own a vintage or high-value bike that deserves crated protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is my motorcycle secured safely during transport?
Yes. Carriers in our network experienced in motorcycle transport use proper wheel chocks and soft tie-down straps designed specifically for two-wheeled vehicles, not generic car tie-downs.
Q:What's the difference between open tie-down and crated motorcycle shipping?
Open tie-down secures your motorcycle upright on a trailer, exposed to the elements like open car transport. Crated shipping fully encloses your motorcycle in a protective crate for maximum protection, similar in concept to enclosed car transport.
Q:Can you ship a motorcycle that doesn't run?
Yes, non-running motorcycles can be shipped, but require carriers with the right loading equipment — let us know when requesting your quote so we can match you appropriately.
Q:Do I need to drain the gas tank before shipping?
Carriers typically prefer a low fuel level for safety and weight reasons. Your assigned carrier will confirm specific pickup requirements ahead of time.
Q:How does the reservation fee work?
There is a reservation fee for your motorcycle shipment. Your assigned responsible agent will directly inform you of the exact reservation fee amount and when it needs to be paid.
Q:Can I ship a motorcycle alongside a car in the same shipment?
In some cases, yes, depending on carrier capacity and trailer type — let our team know if you're shipping both so we can coordinate.