Motorcycle Transport Services
Shipping a motorcycle is fundamentally different from shipping a car. Two wheels, exposed components, and delicate finishes require specialized equipment and experienced handlers. Most bikes ride on open carriers in a wheel chock; enclosed trailers and crating add protection for show bikes and high-value builds.
Recognized by U.S. News & World Report
U.S. News & World Report
“Best for Motorcycles”
“Our choice as the vehicle shipping company that's best for motorcycles, American Auto Shipping can also be an affordable option for motorcycle shipping.”
U.S. News & World Report
“Best for Motorcycles”
“It also offers optional crating for all types of bikes.”
Why Motorcycle Shipping is Different
Your bike deserves specialized care that standard auto carriers can't provide
Open or Enclosed
Most motorcycles ship on open car carriers, strapped upright in a wheel chock — the usual choice for a daily rider and usually the lowest cost. Enclosed trailers keep a bike out of rain, road debris and grime, which matters more for show bikes, fresh paint, chrome and high-value builds.
Proper Securing Methods
Motorcycles are secured using wheel chocks that lock the front tire in place, combined with soft-loop tie-down straps attached to the frame — never to handlebars, mirrors, or other fragile components that could bend or break.
Specialized Carriers
Specialized motorcycle carriers are equipped with hydraulic lift gates for safe loading, multiple tie-down points, and padded interior walls. These carriers handle motorcycles daily and understand the specific requirements of two-wheeled transport.
Optional Crating
For high-value, vintage, or custom motorcycles, many companies offer professional crating services. Your bike is placed in a custom-built wooden crate with foam padding, providing an additional layer of protection during transport. Crating is especially recommended for cross-country shipments.
Types of Motorcycles You Can Ship
From daily riders to priceless custom builds
Cruisers & Touring
Harley-Davidson, Indian, Honda Gold Wing, and other touring bikes. Specialized carriers handle the extra weight and width of fully-loaded touring motorcycles.
Sport Bikes
Yamaha R1, Kawasaki Ninja, Ducati Panigale, and similar high-performance sport bikes. Extra care for fairings and bodywork.
Custom & Chopper
One-of-a-kind custom builds, choppers, and bobbers. Extended forks, custom paint, and unique dimensions are no problem.
Vintage & Classic
Antique and classic motorcycles requiring the utmost care. Crating is strongly recommended for irreplaceable vintage bikes.
Dirt & Adventure
Dirt bikes, dual-sport, and adventure motorcycles. Carriers handle bikes with off-road tires and higher ground clearance.
Trikes & Sidecars
Three-wheeled motorcycles, sidecar rigs, and Can-Am Spyders. Wider footprint is accommodated with specialized tie-downs.
How to Prepare Your Motorcycle
Follow these steps for a smooth shipping experience
- Clean your motorcycle thoroughly so existing damage is visible and documented
- Take detailed photos from every angle, including close-ups of any existing scratches or dents
- Check tire pressure and ensure both tires are properly inflated for safe loading
- Ensure the battery is charged — the carrier needs to roll the bike on and off
- Drain the fuel tank to about 1/4 full to reduce weight and safety risk
- Remove or secure any loose accessories (saddlebags, GPS mounts, phone holders)
- Fold in mirrors and retract antennas if applicable
- Disable any alarm systems that could trigger during transport
- Leave one key with the carrier and keep a spare for yourself
Motorcycle Shipping Costs
The price depends on the distance, the route, the time of year and how the bike rides. Open transport is usually the lowest cost, enclosed costs more, and crating adds cost and prep time but gives the most protection for valuable or irreplaceable bikes.
Get your free estimate and the offers come from licensed companies with their actual prices.
Important Safety Note
Never ship personal belongings strapped to your motorcycle. Carrier insurance does not cover personal items, and loose items can shift during transport and damage your bike. If you need to ship gear, use a separate shipping service.
Want every detail before you book?
Our Motorcycle Shipping Guide covers what drives the cost, open vs. enclosed vs. crated, how bikes are secured, non-running motorcycles and a full prep checklist.
Read the Motorcycle Shipping GuideMotorcycle Transport FAQ
It depends on the distance, the route, the time of year and how the bike rides: open transport usually costs least, enclosed costs more, and crating adds cost and prep time. Get your free estimate and the offers come from licensed companies with their actual prices.
Not usually. Most carriers secure motorcycles using soft tie-down straps and wheel chocks. Crating is available as an option for extra protection.
Yes. Carriers can load non-running bikes with special equipment. Include the condition when you get your free estimate so the offers come from companies with the right equipment.
Yes. Every partner we are a disclosed agent for carries cargo insurance, and the carrier it assigns must too. For high-value bikes, ask about coverage limits.
Related Services
Cost Estimator
Get a free estimate for your route
Motorcycle Shipping Guide
The full how-to: costs, securing, non-running bikes and prep
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