As we cover in our FAQs on motorcycle moving, you have several options when it comes to moving your motorcycle, which we will briefly outline here. Choosing your method of transportation is the first step in prepping your motorcycle for a cross country move:

1. Choose A Method of Transport

Road trip: If you have the time and energy, moving out of state presents the perfect opportunity to take a long road trip with your bike. Map out a route and explore new roads on the way to your new home.

Trailer it: For decades, companies like U-Haul have helped Americans take the DIY approach to moving. For those wanting to tow their own motorcycle trailer, U-Haul offers a small flatbed trailer with heavy duty tie downs that you can tow behind your own personal vehicle. Alternatively, consider purchasing your own motorcycle trailer, which can be a great investment for those who frequently take their bike along on trips.

Hire movers: Some moving companies will transport your motorcycle along with the rest of your household goods as long as you remove any flammable liquids. If you’re hiring a moving company, make sure you check with them ahead of time to make sure they will move your bike.

Ship it: The most reliable (and most expensive) method of getting your motorcycle to its new home is by hiring a motor carrier to transport it for you. There are several shipping companies that deal exclusively with motorcycle transport, so they are experts when it comes to getting your motorcycle delivered without a scratch. You can either work with a shipping broker, like Shipping Masters, or directly with a shipping company in your area. Alternatively, you can move your bike in a pack-it-yourself shipping container.

2. Book Your Transportation

Once you’ve decided on the ideal method of transportation, make sure to book it as soon as possible. To ensure that your motorcycle is moved on your schedule, make your reservation at least 2-3 weeks ahead of time, if not sooner. At the time of booking, most shipping or moving companies will require an initial down payment or deposit. The balance is typically due upon delivery of your motorcycle.

Before you make your reservation, make sure you verify insurance coverage with the shipping company. Most companies offer varying levels of insurance coverage. If the value of your bike exceeds their coverage, check with your insurance provider to see what your plan currently covers or look into obtaining additional coverage.

3. Prep the Bike

Before moving day arrives, you’ll need to make sure your bike is prepped and ready to go. Shipping a motorcycle is a lot like shipping a car, with some minor differences:

• Store extra parts: Like you would when about to transport a car, make sure that you remove any extra parts or accessories that could get damaged during shipment. Most shipping companies do not include these extra parts in the price of shipping, so make sure that you make separate arrangements for these pieces.
• Tune-it up: Double check your bike to make sure everything is in working order, so that it will be drivable once you reach your destination. This step should include checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and the battery.
• Clean it: Make sure the bike is clean, taking special care to wipe down any parts that may have mud or grease.
• Drain fluids: Some carriers require that all flammable liquids be drained from the vehicle prior to transport. Others recommend keeping the gas tank ¼ full so the bike can be easily moved once it’s delivered. Make sure to check with your carrier for guidance.
• Document it: U-Ship recommends thoroughly documenting the condition of the bike prior to the carrier arrival. This includes taking pictures of the motorcycle and making notes of any existing damage prior to pick-up.
• Crate it: Most professional shipping companies will take care of this step for you, placing your bike in its own crate so that it doesn’t get knocked over during shipment. If you are moving the bike yourself, make sure it is properly crated to go inside of your moving truck, or use adequate tie-downs to secure the bike to your trailer.

4. Discover New Roads

Once you’ve unpacked your boxes and unloaded your motorcycle, it’s time to hit the open road again. Now you can decompress by taking a ride and exploring the highways and byways of your new hometown or state.