How to Ship a Motorcycle to Another State
So you’ve finally found your dream machine but it’s all the way across the other side of the country. What are your options if you want to get it home? Don’t let the distance put you off making the purchase because there’s a convenient, affordable, and easy-to-arrange option that doesn’t mean you’ve got to ride your new purchase across the country.
When you want to move a motorcycle from state to state, whether it’s because you bought it online, are relocating to another state, or need to get it to your favorite custom bike shop, shipping a motorcycle is the best option.
If you’re wondering how to ship a motorcycle to another state, this post is for you. You could undertake the road trip of a lifetime or ship your bike with a motorcycle shipping company like SGT Auto Transport.
How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle?
As you might expect, shipping your motorcycle may cost more than shipping a car. This is because it’s a more specialist service that requires specialized equipment. Motorcycles also tend to be shipped one at a time which is going to increase the cost.
When it comes to the figures, however, it’s difficult to be precise about the cost because so many variables can affect the overall price. Rates vary depending on the following:
- Distance
- Seasonality
- Shipment method, whether you choose open vs. enclosed motorcycle shipping
- Timeframe for the delivery
- Condition of the motorcycle
- Location of the pick-up and delivery
That being said, it is possible to give you a rough idea of how much it might cost when you want to ship your motorcycle to another state. Check out the following table:
| Distance | Type of transport | Average price per mile | Sample distance | Sample price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-799 miles | Enclosed | $1.42 | 600 miles | $1249 |
| 800-1499 miles | Enclosed | $0.84 | 1200 miles | $1349 |
| 1500-2399 miles | Enclosed | $0.54 | 2000 miles | $1449 |
| 2400+ miles | Enclosed | $0.41 | 3000 miles | $1549 |
Note: The average price per mile shown above is reflective of current market conditions as of January 2022. They are subject to change due to variables such as the price of gas, pick-up and delivery occasions, seasonal fluctuations, and more.
If you want to know exactly how much it will cost to ship your motorbike to another state, please get in touch today.
Alternatively, use our online instant quote calculator and get your quote today!
How to ship a motorcycle
Motorcycle shipping is a very easy service. The process is completed in just three steps.
Step 1 - Get your quote and make your booking
You can use the motorcycle shipping cost estimator on our website or speak directly with one of our shipping advisors by telephone, Live Chat, or email.
When comparing prices with other motorcycle shipping companies, remember that our prices are all-inclusive.
When you’re ready to make the arrangements, click on the link that’s provided in your email quote and finalize the details of your booking.
Step 2 - Your motorcycle is collected
We make all the necessary arrangements on your behalf and all you’ve got to worry about is being available to release your motorbike. The motorcycle carrier will contact you a few hours ahead of the scheduled pick-up time to check the details and make sure you’ll be there when they arrive.
When the carrier arrives, you and the driver must carefully inspect your motorcycle. Any damage should be noted on the Bill of Lading. Once the paperwork is complete, your motorcycle will be loaded very carefully onto the motorcycle shipping trailer.
Step 3 - Your motorcycle is delivered
You’ll receive a second telephone call a few hours before the carrier is due to deliver your motorbike. This is just a courtesy call to make sure you’ll be available to accept delivery of your motorcycle.
When the carrier arrives, you have the opportunity to check the condition of your motorcycle to make sure all is in order.
Make sure you do your research
You’ve asked yourself the question, “How to ship my motorcycle to another state” and decided that motorcycle shipping is the best answer, but how do you choose the right company for the job?
The answer is to do your research thoroughly. Spend some time checking company websites, customer reviews, and third-party review sites. While you’re doing your research, consider the following questions:
- How trustworthy is the motorcycle shipping company?
- Does the company offer fair pricing?
- Do they consistently deliver motorcycles on time?
- Are the motorcycles delivered without any damage?
You’ll find some more examples of the questions to ask right here.
As well as checking out the reviews the company shares about itself, remember to look at several customer review sites such as Google, TransportReviews, and Yelp. You’ll also find it helpful to look at the company details via the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
When you’ve found a few companies that look trustworthy, give them a call and request a quote. You might also be able to get a quote online.
You can tell a motorcycle shipping company is trustworthy by:
- Looking up its FMCSA licensing
- Checking for customer reviews and complaints about hidden fees
- Reading third-party reviews
Tips for shipping your motorcycle
There are some things you can do if you want to ensure your motorcycle arrives in the best possible conditions and there are few holdups.
Drain the fluids
Trying to load a motorcycle onto a trailer with a tank full of gas is not a safe thing to do. It’s much safer if the gas tank is close to empty. You might also think about draining all the other fluids as well, including the engine oil and coolant.
If you’re not sure whether this is necessary, ask the shipping company for their advice. A mechanic will be able to safely drain the fluids if you’re not sure what to do.
Wrap the cables
Wrapping the cables is another option as it will ensure no accidental contact causes a spark. It’s also a good idea to disconnect the battery.
Remove any extras
Remove all non-essential accessories and loose items to avoid damage during the shipping process. Remove and wrap them so you can pack them separately.
Reduce the tire pressure
If the tires are slightly deflated it means they will better absorb any impacts on the road. You only need to deflate them enough to soften the tires. Remove too much air and you’re leaving your bike susceptible to damage.
Take photographs
Before your bike is collected for transportation, take lots of clear photographs. A professional motorcycle shipper will have a form you complete and sign (Bill of Lading), that attests to the condition of the bike before it's shipped.
Whatever the reason for shipping your motorcycle, your top priority is to ensure your bike arrives at its destination in pristine condition. SGT Auto Transport makes sure this is what happens. Why not speak with our shipping advisors to make your arrangements? Use our Live Chat or speak to them directly at (864) 546-5038.
FAQs
Let’s answer some of the most common questions our shipping advisors get asked.
Is it possible to ship a motorcycle and sidecar?
Yes, it is possible to ship a motorcycle and sidecar. However, you may have to pay a small surcharge, depending on the size of the sidecar.
Can a motorcycle and car be shipped together?
Yes, it’s also possible to ship a car and motorcycle together. We have a good working relationship with many specialist carriers, whatever your vehicle type and budget.
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle?
The length of time it will take to ship your motorcycle is dependent on several factors. These include traffic, distance, weather, detours, road constructions, and driver’s hours.
Is motorcycle shipping safe?
Yes, motorcycle shipping is a very safe option when you want to ship to another state. We can ensure your two wheels will be transported safely and securely, thanks to the many reputable, experienced, and reliable carriers we work with.
Now when you know a bit more about shipping a motorcycle to another state, you might want to get in touch and make your booking. You can speak with our shipping advisors directly by calling (864) 546-5038 or by using Live Chat.
