There are 3 obvious ways to transport a motorbike:
By driving – Simply driving the motorbike to its destination may be the quickest, cheapest option – but when time or mileage is of the essence, it may not be the most appropriate option.
By shipping – If the motorbike is to be shipped internationally, shipping it as a standard crate may be cheaper than a motorbike transporter. To do this, the motorbike is secured into a large crate, and delivered to a shipping depot. For short journey distances, this option may be overkill as packaging a motorbike into a crate can be difficult and time consuming.
Motorbike transporters – These companies are like a standard courier, but specialise in motorcycles – giving the advantage of fast A-B delivery, but with the care and attention of a specialist. Motorbike transporters are experienced in packaging and securing motorbikes securely, and have professional equipment such as loading ramps, wheel clamps and ratchet straps that ensure a safe journey.
Your motorbike will either have a dedicated van, or be securely placed alongside other motorbikes, allowing the cost to be split between customers, thus lowering prices.
As a motorbike transportation service is likely to be the most relevant option, this article will focus on motorbike transporters.
Finding & selecting a motorbike transporter
Prices for motorbike transportation varies between transport providers, as they vary wildly in size and location. For this reason, it is important to get as many quotes as possible before committing to a particular company. Use the Shiply quote form to quickly receive many quotes from motorbike transporters.
When selecting a company to use, be sure to check their feedback and reputation. The feedback system on Shiply should provide a good measure of how trustworthy and experienced a company are, but do not be afraid to ask questions.
Finally, check you are happy with the terms of the contract and what happens in the event of damage or delay. You should also check that the motorbike transporter is fully insured against the entire value of the motorbike, and that the insurance covers extensively enough for all eventualities (theft, fire and damage being the most important).
Before Motorbike Transportation
Before you transport your motorbike, it is important to have a graphic and written account of any damage done to the motorbike. Take photographs of the main parts of the motorbike – at least of the front, back, sides and lower body. Make a written declaration that the photographs and written description of (lack of) damage are correct as of the shipment date, and ensure that it is signed by the motorbike transporter.
This could prove essential in the unlikely case of any damage being done to your motorbike whilst in transport.
Preparing Your Motorbike For Transport
If you are transporting an immobile motorbike, make sure the motorbike transporter knows, as the motorbike transporter may be planning to start it up in order to unload.
If you are transporting a functional motorbike, ensure it is roadworthy – fluids are topped up, the petrol tank is at around ¼ full and tyres are inflated.
Motorbike transporters will generally be happy to include (clean) spare parts for your motorbike, documentation and keys at no extra cost. If you do include such items, make sure they are also securely strapped down as they could damage the motorbike. Either hand the keys to the motorbike transporter, or strap them to the underside of the motorbike.
After Transportation
Upon receiving your motorbike, inspect it thoroughly for any additional damage, as even tiny scratches in the paintwork can be incredibly expensive to repair.
In the unlikely event of any damage during transit to your motorbike, alert the transporter as quickly as possible, as this will make the claims process easier. If you insured the motorbike privately, you will also need to inform your insurance provider.
If you use Shiply to find your motorbike transporter, don’t forget to leave feedback to other users so they can use your experience to decide whether to use that company.