How Much Does Motorcycle Shipping Cost?

If you’re planning to move or purchase a motorcycle across the country (or even internationally), shipping it can be a practical solution. But, like any service, it comes with a price tag. Understanding how much motorcycle shipping costs and what factors influence the final price can help you make informed decisions and budget accordingly. In this guide, we’ll explore the various aspects that affect the cost of shipping a motorcycle, provide a price range, and offer tips on how to save money.

Factors That Affect Motorcycle Shipping Costs

The cost to ship a motorcycle can vary based on several factors. Here are the key components that determine how much you’ll pay for motorcycle transport:

1. Distance of Shipment

One of the most significant factors is the distance between the pickup and delivery locations. Generally, the longer the distance, the higher the cost. For example, shipping your motorcycle across the country (e.g., coast to coast in the U.S.) will cost more than shipping within a single state.

• Short-distance shipping (up to 500 miles): $200 to $500
• Medium-distance shipping (500 to 1,500 miles): $400 to $800
• Long-distance shipping (over 1,500 miles): $700 to $1,200

Longer routes can benefit from “economies of scale,” where the price per mile may decrease as the distance increases, but the overall cost will still be higher.

2. Type of Transport: Open vs. Enclosed

Motorcycles can be shipped in open or enclosed trailers, and this decision significantly affects the cost:

• Open transport: The motorcycle is shipped in an open trailer, exposed to weather and road debris. This is the more affordable option but offers less protection.
• Enclosed transport: The motorcycle is shipped inside a closed trailer, protecting it from weather, dirt, and potential damage. This is the premium option, recommended for high-value or rare bikes.
• Average cost: $400 to $1,200, depending on distance.

If you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or custom motorcycle, you may want to opt for enclosed transport despite the higher cost.

3. Time of Year

The seasonality of motorcycle shipping can impact prices. Summer and early fall tend to be peak moving seasons, with higher demand and, therefore, higher prices. Winter can also increase costs in colder regions due to harsher driving conditions and lower demand for shipments. For the best prices, aim to ship in the off-season (late fall or early spring).

4. Pick-up and Delivery Locations

Where your motorcycle is being picked up and delivered also plays a big role in pricing. Shipping between major cities or along heavily traveled routes tends to be more affordable because carriers are more likely to have established networks there. On the other hand, shipping to or from rural areas may incur additional fees due to the need for special routes or fewer carriers servicing those areas.

• Urban to urban: Lower cost, around $200 to $700.
• Urban to rural or rural to rural: Higher cost, $600 to $1,200.

5. Additional Services and Special Requests

If you need expedited shipping, door-to-door service, or have special requests (like transporting a non-running motorcycle), these extras will increase the cost:

• Door-to-door service: An additional $100 to $200 compared to terminal-to-terminal shipping.
• Expedited shipping: An extra $200 to $500, depending on the timeframe.
• Non-running motorcycles: Transporting a motorcycle that doesn’t run often requires specialized equipment and labor, adding $100 to $250 to the cost.

Average Motorcycle Shipping Costs

Based on the factors above, here’s a general idea of the average cost to ship a motorcycle within the United States:

• Local (up to 500 miles): $200 to $500
• Mid-range (500 to 1,500 miles): $400 to $800
• Cross-country (over 1,500 miles): $700 to $1,200

If you’re shipping internationally, the costs can be considerably higher due to additional logistics, customs fees, and taxes. For international motorcycle shipping, the price can range anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the destination country and shipping method (air or sea).

How to Save on Motorcycle Shipping

While shipping a motorcycle may seem expensive, there are a few ways to reduce costs:

1. Compare Multiple Quotes

Always get quotes from several transport companies before making a decision. Prices can vary greatly between providers, and shopping around can help you find the best deal. Be sure to compare services, not just prices, to ensure you’re getting quality transportation.

2. Choose Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping

Opting for terminal-to-terminal shipping, where you drop off and pick up your motorcycle at specified locations, can save you around $100 to $200 compared to door-to-door service. While this is less convenient, it can significantly reduce the overall cost.

3. Book Early

Planning ahead and booking your motorcycle shipment in advance can help lock in lower rates. Last-minute bookings, especially during peak seasons, may come with extra fees. Carriers also appreciate early bookings because it helps them plan routes more efficiently, potentially leading to discounts.

4. Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Dates

If you’re flexible on your shipping dates, you might be able to take advantage of lower rates. Many transport companies offer economy shipping options, where they combine multiple shipments going along similar routes. This could mean a longer wait for delivery, but it’ll help reduce the cost.

5. Ship During the Off-Season

If possible, try to ship your motorcycle during the off-season, such as late fall or early spring. Shipping during these times can help you avoid peak-season pricing, and you’re more likely to find carriers with availability at lower rates.

Is Motorcycle Shipping Worth the Cost?

The decision to ship your motorcycle instead of riding or driving it to the destination depends on several factors:

• Distance: For long-distance trips, shipping your bike can be much more convenient, safer, and often cheaper than riding it, especially when factoring in fuel, lodging, and potential wear and tear.
• Time: If you’re on a tight schedule or unable to make the trip yourself, shipping is a time-saving alternative.
• Condition: For rare or valuable motorcycles, shipping via enclosed transport ensures they arrive in the best possible condition without the risk of damage from road debris or inclement weather.

If your budget allows, shipping is a great option that saves you the hassle of long-distance travel and guarantees your bike’s safety.

Conclusion

Motorcycle shipping costs can range widely depending on factors like distance, transport type, and special services. The average cost for domestic motorcycle shipping in the U.S. falls between $200 and $1,200, with international shipments costing significantly more. By planning ahead, comparing quotes, and being flexible with your shipping dates, you can find the best deal to suit your needs. Whether you’re moving, buying, or selling, shipping your motorcycle is a reliable and often affordable option.