Motorcycle Shipping Made Simple
Motorcycle shipping moves your bike safely from one location to another. Unlike cars, motorcycles need specialized handling, equipment, and security. Loading involves wheel chocks, soft tie-downs, and careful balance. As a result, only experienced carriers should handle motorcycle transport.
At Xpress Auto Transport, we coordinate motorcycle shipments through carriers who specialize in two-wheeled vehicles. Whether you ride a sport bike, cruiser, touring bike, or vintage motorcycle, we have the right transport solution.
When Do You Need Motorcycle Shipping?
Motorcycle owners ship bikes for many reasons. Each situation has unique requirements. Below are the most common motorcycle shipping scenarios.
- Buying a motorcycle online — eBay, Cycle Trader, Facebook Marketplace purchases.
- Selling to a buyer in another state — deliver to your buyer’s door.
- Relocation or PCS moves — ship your bike with your household goods.
- Track day or race events — get the bike to the venue without riding.
- Snowbird seasonal shipping — ride down south, ship back north.
- Vintage or restoration projects — transport non-running motorcycles.
- Long-distance touring — ship to a starting point, ride home.
Open vs. Enclosed Motorcycle Transport
Motorcycles ship via open or enclosed carrier. The right choice depends on your bike and budget.
Open Motorcycle Transport
Open motorcycle transport uses specialized racks or pallets on open trailers. It’s the most affordable option for shipping a bike. Your motorcycle is exposed to weather, but protected from road debris by securing equipment.
Open transport works well for:
- Daily-rider motorcycles and used bikes.
- Routes under 1,500 miles.
- Bikes that will be ridden in all weather anyway.
- Budget-conscious shipping.
Enclosed Motorcycle Transport
Enclosed transport ships your motorcycle inside a fully covered trailer. The bike travels protected from weather, debris, and prying eyes. Drivers use wheel chocks and soft tie-downs.
Enclosed transport is essential for:
- New motorcycles fresh from the dealership.
- Custom, vintage, or rare bikes.
- Long cross-country shipments.
- High-value motorcycles ($15,000+).
- Show bikes and concours vehicles.
Motorcycle Shipping Cost
Motorcycle transport typically costs less than car shipping. Bikes take up less trailer space. However, specialized equipment and handling add some cost. Below are typical pricing ranges.
- Under 500 miles — $300 to $600 open transport.
- 500 to 1,500 miles — $500 to $900 open transport.
- Cross-country (2,500+ miles) — $800 to $1,300 open transport.
- Enclosed transport — add 50% to 80% to open carrier prices.
Pricing varies based on motorcycle size, weight, route, season, and carrier type. Get a free motorcycle shipping quote for your specific bike and route.
How Motorcycles Are Loaded and Secured
Motorcycle loading requires expertise. Done correctly, your bike arrives in the same condition it left. Done poorly, you risk paint damage, tipped bikes, or worse.
Proper motorcycle securing involves:
- Wheel chocks — locking the front wheel in place.
- Soft tie-downs — protecting handlebars and paint.
- Compression on suspension — preventing bounce in transit.
- No tie-downs on plastic or trim — only structural attachment points.
- Balanced loading — bikes distributed evenly across the trailer.
- Inspection at pickup and delivery — documented condition reports.
Our motorcycle carriers know the difference between properly securing a Harley, a sport bike, and a vintage cafe racer. Each has unique handling needs.
Shipping Non-Running Motorcycles
Project bikes, barn finds, and partial restorations all need transport occasionally. Non-running motorcycle shipping is one of our specialties. We coordinate carriers with the right equipment to handle bikes that don’t start.
For non-running bike shipments, please note:
- The motorcycle must roll (front and rear wheels turn).
- If the steering is locked, provide the key or unlock mechanism.
- Flat tires need air or proper inflation before pickup.
- Missing or detached parts (handlebars, seat) should be packaged separately.
- Disclose any leaks so carriers can use absorbent pads.
How Long Does Motorcycle Shipping Take?
Motorcycle transit times match car shipping for the same routes. Below are typical timeframes.
- Under 500 miles — 1 to 3 days transit.
- 500 to 1,500 miles — 3 to 5 days transit.
- Cross-country — 7 to 10 days transit.
Pickup typically happens 1 to 5 days after booking. Expedited service is available when timing matters.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Shipping
Preparation helps your bike ship smoothly. Use these steps before pickup day.
- Wash the bike to document its condition with photos.
- Remove the battery if shipping internationally or for storage.
- Drain fuel to less than a quarter tank.
- Disable the alarm and provide the key.
- Remove all loose accessories (saddlebags, GPS, helmets).
- Note any leaks, missing parts, or special handling needs.
- Confirm tire pressure and that wheels turn freely.