Common mistakes to avoid when shipping a motorcycle

As a motorcycle shipping company, we have seen it all when it comes to the mistakes people do when shipping their motorcycles.  Shipping mistakes can lead to costly repairs, lengthy insurance claims, and even irreparable damage to your motorcycle. This post will highlight the 5 most common mistakes and offer expert tips on how to avoid them. By avoiding these mistakes, you can protect your investment and enjoy a stress-free shipping experience.

Not Preparing the Motorcycle for Shipping

Before you ship your motorcycle, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Failure to prepare your motorcycle could lead to damage or other issues during transit. One of the most common mistakes is failing to clean the motorcycle thoroughly. Dirt, grime, and debris can scratch the bike’s paint, making it look dull and unattractive. Additionally, it’s crucial to remove all accessories and loose items from the motorcycle, such as mirrors, saddlebags, or GPS devices. These items could fall off during transit and cause damage to your motorcycle or someone else’s.

Another important step is to drain the gas tank and disconnect the battery. Failure to do so could cause damage or even an explosion during transit. Finally, take detailed photos of your motorcycle before shipping it, so you have evidence of its condition in case of any disputes with the shipping company.

You can read more in detail about preparing your motorcycle for shipping here.

Choosing the Wrong Shipping Company

Choosing the wrong shipping company is another common mistake to avoid. Many people choose a shipping company based solely on price, but this can lead to subpar service and potential damage to your motorcycle. Look for a reputable motorcycle shipping company with a proven track record of delivering bikes safely and on time. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from fellow riders, and research the company’s history and credentials. Additionally, make sure the company offers insurance coverage for your motorcycle during transit, so you’re protected in case of damage or loss.

Read about What To Look For In A Reliable Motorcycle Shipping Company.

Here are our Google Reviews!

Excellent
4.4
Based on 223 reviews
review us on
Really easy! They worked around my schedule and everything worked out great. My motorcycle actually showed up sooner than expected.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business
I had a great experience setting up the transport of my bike. It was picked up in a timely manner and actually delivered the same day. Zack, the transport specialist, was professional and a nice guy.Thanks!
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Mike
I decided last minute to have my bike shipped from TX to CA and was able to easily book and communicate with them. Bike got delivered in perfect condition and earlier than expected which was amazing. Definitely recommend, Great service.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Emily
Easy and quick for a general idea of cost to ship a motorcycle.
Response from the owner: Thanks
Arrived on time and on the pallet as promised. Responsive when I called and gave good information.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Ron
AA motorcycle shipping exceeded my expectations as they delivered my motorcycle. Booking through their website is seamless. I was shipping from San Diego to San Jose and on the website it gave a general estimate of 5-10 business days for delivery after pick up. Andy who picked my motorcycle called me and checked with me about picking up the motorcycle on the day of pick up. I couldn't pick up the call so he promptly called the receiver and checked with him and shared his plans to deliver the motorcycle. Later I called andy again got in touch with him. He is a great professional. He took pics and videos of the motorcycle to make sure he documents any scratches, marks on the vehicle. He said he'll get it delivered THE VERY NEXT DAY! A pleasant surprise to see such promptness in delivery. He also looked up the drop off point on Google maps (street view). So 10/10 for doing his homework about this assignment haha.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Shubham
Pick up and delivery went very smooth. Driver was very professional. Price was very competitive. Would use again.
Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Amy
This was the best vehicle shipping experience I have had. I have shipped more than 30 cars and motorcycles over the years and the online quotation service of AA Motorcycle was excellent.
Response from the owner: Thank you for your business
js_loader

Not Providing Accurate Information

When shipping your motorcycle, you need to provide accurate information to the shipping company. Failure to do so can lead to delays, additional fees, or even the cancellation of the shipment. Make sure you provide the correct pickup and delivery addresses, along with any special instructions or requirements. Additionally, provide accurate information about your motorcycle. This information will help the shipping company determine the appropriate shipping method and ensure your motorcycle is transported safely.

Improperly Securing the Motorcycle for Transit

The truck driver will do this, but this is another thing to keep in mind in shipping a motorcycle is ensuring that it’s tightly fastened for transit. Failing to properly secure your bike can result in it shifting or falling during transit, leading to significant damage or even a total loss. To avoid this, use high-quality straps or tie-downs to secure the motorcycle to the pallet or crate securely. Additionally, make sure the bike’s center of gravity is balanced, and all loose parts are removed or secured.

Ignoring Delivery Requirements and Conditions

It’s also essential to pay attention to delivery requirements and conditions. Failure to do so could result in your motorcycle being returned to the shipping company or even being abandoned at the delivery location. Make sure you are available to receive the shipment or provide someone trustworthy who can receive it on your behalf. Additionally, ensure that the delivery address can accommodate the size of the shipment and that any necessary permits or special instructions are obtained in advance.

Here’s Our Motorcycle Shipping Calculator


  City / Zip Code Lookup


  City / Zip Code Lookup




Add Vehicle Next ►

Using a motorcycle shipping calculator is an excellent way to get an accurate shipping cost for your motorcycle. Our calculator takes into account some required fields such as the type of your vehicle, as well as the origin and the destination zip codes. By using our shipping calculator, you can get the exact amount of how much it will cost to ship your motorcycle and budget it accordingly.

At our motorcycle shipping company, we understand how important your motorcycle is to you, and we’re committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable shipping services. If you’re in need of motorcycle shipping services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’ll be happy to provide you with a free quote and answer any questions you may have about our services.

Leave a Comment