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Motorcycle shipping costs explained
Most motorcycle owners know the importance of caring for their bikes. Regular maintenance and proper storage keep motorcycles running smoothly year after year.
Also important for protecting your bike? Taking proper care in transit—whether you’re driving it yourself or hiring someone to haul it for you. Professional motorcycle shipping ensures the vehicle gets where you need it to go safely.
Learn more about motorcycle shipping and how shipping costs are determined below.
What is motorcycle shipping?
Motorcycle shipping involves transporting the vehicle across the state or country via a truck or trailer rather than driving it yourself. If you’re moving or have purchased a motorcycle from a seller across the U.S., hiring a professional shipping service provides a safe, affordable and efficient way to get the bike to your door.
What factors affect motorcycle shipping costs?
Shipping a motorcycle is not a one-size-fits-all solution. A number of considerations will impact how much you can expect to pay for this service—all of which are important to keep in mind as you conduct research and gather estimates.
- Distance: The main factor in calculating costs is distance, with most transport companies charging a specific fee per mile. Long-distance trips typically have a lower rate per mile but will cost more in total.
- Location: If the driver has to go far out of their way (e.g., to a rural area) to pick up or drop off the motorcycle, it may impact the cost.
- Time of year: Demand is typically higher during the spring and summer months, which can affect prices.
- Type of motorcycle: Vintage bikes, trikes and larger or modified models may require more space or additional transport accommodations, which may change the price if any special equipment will be required.
Motorcycle shipping cost examples
|
ORIGIN |
DESTINATION |
AVG. DOOR-TO-DOOR COSTS |
AVG. COST BETWEEN TERMINALS |
|
Los Angeles, CA |
New York, NY |
$859 |
$799 |
|
New York, NY |
Chicago, IL |
$679 |
$579 |
|
Chicago, IL |
Miami, FL |
$779 |
$629 |
|
Miami, FL |
Dallas, TX |
$779 |
$629 |
|
Dallas, TX |
Boston, MA |
$859 |
$655 |
|
Boston, MA |
Seattle, WA |
$959 |
$705 |
|
Seattle, WA |
Los Angeles, CA |
$779 |
$629 |
|
TOTAL DISTANCE |
AVG. DOOR-TO-DOOR COSTS |
AVG. COST BETWEEN TERMINALS |
|
0-799 miles |
$680 |
$579 |
|
800-1499 miles |
$779 |
$629 |
|
1500-2399 miles |
$859 |
$655 |
|
2400 miles and up |
$959 |
$705 |
How to reduce motorcycle shipping costs
There are a few ways you can bring down the cost of motorcycle shipping.
- Ship multiple motorcycles at once. If you own more than one motorcycle or have peers who need to ship a bike of their own, each of you can save money by transporting them together on the same trailer.
- Use terminal-to-terminal service. If you have the flexibility and there’s a distribution center nearby, dropping off and picking up your motorcycle at terminals will reduce shipping costs.
How motorcycle shipping works
Motorcycle transport is easy when working with Montway Auto Transport. It takes just three steps:
- Get a quote and book:
Call 888-989-8526 or live chat to get a quote and assistance in booking transport. - Prepare your motorcycle:
Make sure you have ¾ or less gas in the tank, the tires are inflated, the steering column is unlocked and all personal items are removed. - Transport:
The driver will pick up your motorcycle at the agreed-upon location (location permitting).
Types of motorcycle shipping services
When arranging your motorcycle transport, you’ll have a number of options to choose from. Below are some terms you will likely come across.
- Enclosed shipping: Your motorcycle is transported in an enclosed trailer or truck.
- Door-to-door: The driver picks up and drops off your motorcycle as close to your home as possible.
- Terminal to terminal: The driver picks up and drops off your motorcycle at a designated terminal (or distribution center).
How to get a motorcycle shipping quote
You can do research on your own and contact multiple carriers to compare pricing and find the best solution, but this can take a lot of time and energy—and can expose you to potential scams.
Instead, working with a broker like Montway Auto Transport helps you find a great deal in minutes. First, be ready with your desired shipping dates, pickup and drop-off locations and details about your motorcycle (make, model, year, any special requirements). Then, just call our motorcycle shipping specialists and we’ll provide you with a quote that best meets your requirements and preferences.
Ready to get a motorcycle shipping quote with Montway?
Obtain a free customized quote by calling 888-989-8526.
FAQs about motorcycle shipping costs
What is the average cost to ship a motorcycle?
The average cost for door-to-door motorcycle transport is $815. The average cost for terminal-to-terminal motorcycle transport is $660.
How much does it cost to ship my motorcycle across the country?
The average cost for cross-country, door-to-door motorcycle transport is $859. The average cost for cross-country, terminal-to-terminal motorcycle transport is $799.
How do I ship a motorcycle to me that I just bought?
Arrange transport with the seller or dealer to ensure the motorcycle is picked up, hauled and dropped off safely. Find a reputable motorcycle transport broker so you know your motorcycle is in good hands.
What’s the best motorcycle shipping company?
Montway Auto Transport is a reputable and experienced broker that has a large network of carriers across the country. Our customer support team works with motorcycle owners to determine the best carrier and shipping options based on their bike, needs, and budget. Our motorcycle shipping specialists are available at 888-989-8526 to answer any questions you may have.
