If your motorcycle is your pride and joy, then you’re probably nervous about shipping it. Luckily, we’re here with some proven tips to help alleviate your stress. Regardless of whether you’re shipping it cross country or internationally, there are certain things that you should keep in mind to expedite the process while ensuring that your prized possession is shipped safely. Here’s our list of the five things you should do before shipping your motorcycle.
Choose the Right Company
There are tons of moving companies for you to choose from. However, not all of them are qualified to ship luxury motorcycles. It’s imperative that you do your research ahead of time so that you’re happy and confident with the company that you choose. Whether you use the word of mouth technique and ask someone who has shipped a motorcycle before or you research companies on your own and seek trusted reviews, doing proper research before signing paperwork is important. Ask questions regarding their shipping techniques and experience.
Pay for Enclosed Shipping
When it comes to shipping your motorcycle, there are two types of shipping options: open shipping and enclosed shipping. Open shipping is exactly what it sounds like. In this method your motorcycle won’t be covered and will be exposed to the elements. This increases the chance of damages and that’s the last thing you want. Enclosed shipping on the other hand means that your motorcycle will be safely transported in an enclosed trailer. This will protect it from weather and the elements and exponentially increase the odds of incident-free shipping.
Do Your Part
Before shipping, clean your motorcycle throughly. This will allow you to see any damages that exist before shipping. Additionally, tighten any parts or the motorcycle that may be loose prior to shipping. Remember to also have at least enough gas in the tank to move your motorcycle on and off the trailer. If you have an alarm system installed, make sure you throughly explain how it works with the moving company ahead of time.
Learn About Compliance
Depending on where you ship your motorcycle, you may be required to meet a compliance process before you can ride. This is especially true if you’re shipping your motorcycle to another country. It’s up to you to call ahead and ensure that you have all the paperwork needed and your motorcycle meets are the proper requirements. Compliance regulations are an important part of the motorcycle shopping process that a lot of people overlook. Get a head start on this to avoid frustration when you’re trying to get settled into your new home.
Get Various Estimates
While choosing the best moving company is important, getting the right price and staying within your budget is vital as well. With so many companies for you to choose from, the least you can do is get a minimum of 3 estimates. The goal is to find a quality company at the best possible price.
Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
- Motorcycle Shippers: Motorcycle Shippers has shipped more than 90,000 cycles, and is licensed with the Federal Highway Administration, MC352946.
- Montway Auto Transport: With more than 13 years of experience, Montway ships motorcycles of all types across all 50 states
- Haulbikes: Haulbikes specialized in motorcycle shipping since 1994. The entire move is handled by a member of the Haulbikes family