The cost of shipping a motorcycle is dependent on multiple factors, ranging from the distance to be covered to the type of carrier being used. In this article, we will explain these factors and how they affect the shipping cost. Knowing this information allows you to make an informed decision when shipping your motorcycle.
Most shipping companies are able to give you instant quotes simply by filling out an online form or talking with an expert. The quote you are given represents the estimated cost required to ship your motorcycle, although the final price may slightly differ from the initial quote.
Shipping companies usually have experts that are able to calculate quotes based on your shipping requirements. The two major factors that affect the cost of shipping your motorcycle are the overall distance and the shipping method of your choice.
| Distance | Open transport cost | Enclosed transport cost |
|---|---|---|
| <500 miles | $550 | $680 |
| 500-1,000 miles | $620 | $820 |
| 1,000-1,500 miles | $770 | $1000 |
| 1,500-2,000 miles | $870 | $1150 |
| >2,000 miles | $990 | $1300 |
The cost of shipping your motorcycle depends on the number of miles to be covered during shipping, as shown in the table above; the longer the distance, the more expensive it becomes.
Another factor that influences the cost of your shipping is whether you use enclosed or open shipping. Enclosed shipping costs more, but it offers protection against bad weather and debris on the road, and in some cases, it can even protect your car from light collisions. You should opt for enclosed shipping if it is something you can afford.
There are other factors that also affect the cost of your motorcycle; they are not as influential as the price, but it doesn’t hurt to be aware of them.
Size and Weight
Some motorcycles will be more expensive to ship if their size is too large for a single slot in the carrier; heavier bikes also need to be held down with more latches, to prevent damage.
Pick-up/Drop-off Points
Shipping companies usually transport more than one motorcycle at a time; hence, they can’t go around dropping each one at a specific location. Your bike would likely be dropped at a terminal close to your location.
If you need your motorcycle delivered to your doorstep, you may need to pay extra. The extra cost will depend on the distance of your location from the nearest terminal.
Time of the Year
The cost of shipping a motorcycle increases with demand and is more likely to be expensive at times like summer, when a lot of people are looking to ship their vehicles. More people wanting to ship their motorcycles means there are fewer available slots on carriers.
Most shipping companies have means by which you can get an instant quote. You can gather multiple quotes from different companies and choose the one that you can afford. However, it is important to note that cheaper quotes might mean lesser-quality services.
Booking a transport company very early allows you to enjoy cheaper prices, as there are still a lot of slots available. The cost of shipping increases as the number of slots decreases.
Having your car delivered to a terminal is much cheaper than dropping it off at your exact location. Although, you will still need to go through the stress of taking it to the required location.
An open-air carrier exposes your motorcycle to damage from weather and debris on the road, but it is much cheaper than using an enclosed carrier. If you need to ship your car but don’t have a lot of money, this is the way to go.
Some shipping companies may offer discounts if you ship multiple motorcycles at the same time, but there are also other discounts that can be gotten from having special requirements or making special purchases.
Although the cost of shipping a motorcycle is lower than that of shipping a car, it is important to understand the reasons for the differences and the factors that affect them. Shipping companies like Ship A Car, Inc. have shipping experts that can take your details and transform them into a quote using all these factors. Call us at (866) 821-4555 and get a free quote.
Enclosed carriers offer protection from the weather, debris, and other factors that might cause damage to your motorcycle. Although they are more expensive, they are the safest and most secure way to transport your motorcycle.
Shipping companies offer immediate shipping services for customers who need their motorcycles shipped immediately. The motorcycle can be shipped in under 3 days, starting from the time you hand the motorcycle over to them, although this may cost a little extra.
