How will my motorcycle be shipped?
Shipping companies have different methods of shipping.
- Crated - Companies that ship using crates strap your motorcycle to a specialized pallet, that may or may not have sides. The crate is an extra cost and companies that ship this way might be shipping your motorcycle with other freight.
- Straps - Other companies specialized in motorcycles have trailers that are made to haul bikes and therefore just need straps. There is no additional cost.
- Enclosed - Enclosed trailers keep your motorcycle safe from prying eyes and the weather. Enclosed trailer shipping normally costs more than open.
- Open Trailer - Open trailers leave your motorcycle exposed to the elements, but no more then when you normally ride.
- Commercial Truck - Larger companies pull enclosed trailers carrying 20-40 bikes with 18 wheelers. Drivers must have a Class A driver's license.
- Pickup - Open trailers are usually smaller and pulled by pickups, smaller enclosed trailers are also hauled by pickups. Pickups do not require any special license to use.
Is my motorcycle safe?
There's no way for us to tell and no way for anyone else to guarantee your bikes safety. The safest way to ship your bike is with reputable companies.
Your bike is less likely to be safe if:
- The driver does not have a CDL.
- The trailer is not enclosed.
- The shipper does not handle motorcycles exclusively.
- Many bikers have left bad reviews or complaints on forums.
It should be noted that shippers using pick up trucks usually do not have commercial drivers licenses, but because of this they are cheaper. It's a matter of cost versus piece of mind. Some things like whether or not the trailer is enclosed only affect the bikes safety a little and can be a big difference in cost.