Are you about to move or buy a bike online?
Before you go, let’s talk about motorcycle shipping costs.
Most riders get these quotes without realizing what’s hidden in the cost and why.
Here is the reality about motorcycle shipping…
Motorcycle shipping costs can vary from a few hundred dollars to more than $1,000.
The thing is:
Riders overpay most of the time.
They are not aware of factors that lead to an increase in motorcycle shipping costs.
If you take some time to find out the cost of shipping a motorcycle…
You will realize that when it comes to making the right decisions, you have everything in your hands.
In this article, you will discover…
- Factors That Influence Motorcycle Shipping Prices
- The Types Of Transport
- The Impact of Distance on your Quote
- Tips on How To Lower Your Shipping Costs
Factors That Influence Motorcycle Shipping Prices
Motorcycle shipping prices range from $300 to $1,200.
As you can see, that is a fairly big price range.
Prices could be different because a motorcycle shipping service provider uses several elements to calculate your final quote.
Understanding the influence of these factors gives you the power of your decisions when working with a motorcycle shipping service.
Here are the top five influencing factors:
- Distance of the bike shipping
- The size of your bike
- The type of transport
- Location of pick-up and delivery
- Season
The number of motorcycles in the U.S. has increased by 35% between 2013 and 2022. This means more people are looking for a reputable motorcycle shipping service company.
As demand goes up…
The prices during the peak riding season rise with the increase in demand.
How The Distance Affects Your Quote
Distance is the first and main factor that affects the motorcycle shipping cost.
Shipping charges typically range from $0.40 to $1.00 per mile.
Although that is true…
You will pay more per mile for a shorter distance than a longer one.
Why? Easy, transport companies have a fixed cost regardless of the distance.
Shipping a motorcycle for 500 miles could cost $2.20 per mile.
The 2,000 miles shipping may cost you as low as $0.25 per mile. When you ship your motorcycle through a reliable motorcycle shipping service, you will better understand how pricing will affect your budget.
This is the general price:
- For shipping under 500 miles, the cost is from $200 to $700
- For 500 miles to 1,500 miles, the price is from $350 to $800
- Shipping above 1,500 miles, the cost is $700 to $1,200 and more.
The pricing mentioned above makes long-distance motorcycle shipping cost effective than moving a motorcycle over a short distance.
The Types Of Transport
As a biker, it is important to know the different modes of transport available.
After careful consideration of these transport types, you will easily save some money from your total shipping budget.
Open Transport
This is the most common and the cheapest mode of transporting your motorcycle.
Your motorcycle is placed on an open trailer with other motorcycles. Although the cost is low, your motorcycle is exposed to road dust, rains, and other elements.
You may consider it the cheapest way of transporting your motorcycle.
Enclosed Transport
The most prominent way of transporting your motorcycle is enclosed transport.
Your motorcycle is boxed and protected. So it will be safe from the weather. However, the cost will be much higher (about $150 to $300).
A closed transporter comes in handy if you are shipping premium and classic motorcycles.
If you have a custom-made Harley Davidson, transporting it through enclosed shipping is worth it.
Other Modes of Transport
- This transport type will cost you around $200. It is only available in some states.
- It will cost you $400 to $800. If you are shipping in an emergency, this is the most appropriate type.
Most bikers use transporters by trucks. This is the most convenient and cost-effective way.
The Impact of Bike Size and Weight on the Total Price
The size of your motorcycle may have a greater impact on the shipping cost.
Bigger motorcycles will occupy more space in the trailer. A Harley-Davidson will cost you about $1,000 to ship from point A to point B.
Shipping a lightweight cruiser may cost you around $500. Bear in mind that weight also matters.
The more weight the motorcycle has, the more it costs.
The Importance of the Location and Accessibility
Location matters a lot.
If your motorcycle is in an urban area, you will be charged with a small amount than if it is in a rural area.
Transport companies typically have a collection and delivery schedule from the big cities. If your location or destination is off this major highway, this might increase your cost.
The following are likely to increase the cost:
- If the pick-up or the delivery is at a remote point.
- If your area of pick-up or delivery is not accessible.
- Door-to-door costs more than terminal to terminal.
Terminal to terminal delivery is the best and most cost-effective way of moving your motorcycle.
Seasonal Fluctuations
Shipping your motorcycle during winter is one of the best shipping times.
The shipping industry moves fast during spring, early fall, and summer.
During this period, most riders want their motorcycles to be shipped early. This high demand increases the rates charged.
The best time to ship your motorcycle is…
Winter is the best time of the year to ship your motorcycle.
Shipping companies would like their trailers to move. The absence of business will force most transporters to lower their shipping charges.
Advance booking:
If you want to get the best quotes, consider booking your shipment at least two weeks in advance.
If you book your shipment at the last minute, expect an expensive quote from most transport companies.
Insurance Coverage
Motorcycle shipping companies are all covered by basic insurance.
Shipping companies are likely to cover motorcycle damage during shipping. Some companies will offer $100,000 insurance, while some companies will cover a lower amount.
Before shipping your motorcycle to any company, always ensure to confirm the following information:
- How much is the coverage amount?
- How much deductible is there?
- How can you file for a claim?
As a motorcycle rider, it is good to always inspect your motorcycle. If you find any sort of scratches, make sure you take a photo.
Tips on How To Lower Your Shipping Costs
Planning is one of the most important aspects you should consider before shipping your motorcycle.
- Always compare your quote from at least three companies. Comparing quotes will let you choose the best.
- Choose a different date to ship your motorcycle. If you can be flexible with your date, you are likely to get cheaper rates.
- Ship your motorcycles at the same time. If two or more motorcyclists are planning to move in the same direction, group your motorcycles.
- Make sure you prepare your motorcycle well. Following the right preparation process will help lower your total cost.
- Choose terminal to terminal. The total cost will be much lower than door to door.
Wrap Up
Motorcycle shipping costs are relatively easy to understand.
As a motorcycle rider, if you follow the right procedures, you can get a satisfying quotation for shipping a motorcycle.
Shipping costs of your motorcycle depend on distance, size, transport type, location, and timing.
The average price range for shipping a motorcycle is between $300 and $1,200.
The motorcycle transportation market has increased dramatically in recent years because the number of motorcyclists has continued to grow.
As a result, it is easy to find a reputable motorcycle shipping company.