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Posts Tagged ‘Motorcycle Shipping’

Motorcycle Transport: Everything You Need To Know

Motorbike in sunset backdrop

You are preparing for a move, but you do not want to drive your motorcycle across the country. Not only would driving mean traveling separate from your family, it would also mean more of a hassle with the possibility of traffic and inclement weather. Coast to coast is a long way to travel alone, so we understand if you are in search of another solution.

Of course, you could always rent a truck and move the motorcycle, yourself, but this comes with many risks. The best choice would be to use an auto transport company that specializes in the transport of motorcycles.

Why Should You Ship Your Motorcycle?

There are many reasons why you should use a motorcycle shipping service. Here are just a few:

  1. It is Safe.

You want the best for your bike. Therefore, you do not want to just strap it down on a truck and call it a day. You need to know that it will be properly cared for. A reputable motorcycle transport company will have the proper equipment to ship your motorcycle in the safest manner, possible. At National Dispatch, we treat all the vehicles in our care as if they were our own.

  1. It is Fast.

Traveling across the country can take many days to complete. This could mean taking days off work. By using motorcycle shipping services, you save time. You can fly to your destination, and your motorcycle will get where it needs to be in a timely manner.

  1. It is Worry-Free.

A move is stressful enough, as is. Why should you also have to worry about how you are going to get your vehicle to your new home? By using auto transport, you will get peace of mind with a completely hassle-free process from start to finish.

Tips For Motorcycle Shipping

Handing your motorcycle over to a stranger can be a stressful experience. Follow these tips to make the process a bit easier on yourself and to ensure that no damage comes to your bike while in transport.

  1. Do your Research.

With thousands of companies pining for your business, it is important to do your homework to make sure that you choose the best one for the job. Not all companies are created equally. Read reviews from previous customers, and speak with a representative to get all your questions answered.

  1. Avoid Cheap.

You get what you pay for is true in the auto transport industry, as well. A cheap rate does not necessarily mean that you are getting a great deal. It could mean that you are giving up experienced staff and a higher level of service. It is best to avoid the risk. After all, you do not want to run the possibility of damages.

  1. Prepare for Transport.

Ask the auto shipping company how you should prepare your motorcycle for shipping. Most companies will suggest keeping the fuel tank at one-quarter full and removing all personal items (if you have saddle bags or storage compartments).

National Dispatch

At National Dispatch, we understand that you have invested a lot of time and money into your cars, trucks, vans, and motorcycles. Therefore, we provide a safe, hassle-free solution to get your vehicle(s) across the country without the extra mileage or wear and tear. When you ship your car with us, our expert staff will provide the best customer service and keep you updated every step of the way. You will never have to worry about delivery. Your vehicle will arrive in a safe and timely manner.

Request a free, instant car shipping quote using our online quote calculator. No personal information is required. If you prefer to speak with an auto transport representative, call us at 800-321-2051.

Shipping A Motorcycle Anywhere In The U.S.

Motorcycle Shipping

Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki and are all well-known motorcycle brands. If you own one of these brands, the name probably brings back fond memories of your first cross-country ride. For most, this is a bucket list item. Once completed, you can choose an alternative form of transportation for getting to your destination. Instead of driving, you may opt to fly and have your motorcycle shipped. This is where an auto transport company comes in.

You may be wondering why you would ship your motorcycle when you can drive. There are some instances in which shipping a motorcycle would be beneficial. Transporting a motorcycle with a professional auto transport company is easy, fast, and affordable. It gives you added peace of mind, knowing that the motorcycle will arrive in pristine condition.

Reasons To Invest In Motorcycle Transport

Motorcycle In Nature

Regardless of the specific motorcycle brand or model you own, you have likely invested a lot of time and money into the upkeep of your ride. When you are undergoing a residential or business move, why wouldn’t you choose to go with the professionals? National Dispatch has a team of professionals trained to safely ship your motorcycle to its destination. Below, you will find some reasons why doing so is the best option for you and your bike.

Avoid Road Hazards.

Long trips add mileage, along with unnecessary wear and tear, to your motorcycle. Traveling long distances not only impacts the wheels, but the engine, too. These factors play a major part in the overall resale value of the motorcycle. This additional wear and tear can be avoided by using a professional auto shipping company with the proper equipment.

At National Dispatch, we offer an enclosed carrier option to safeguard your motorcycle from potentially hazardous weather conditions and road elements. Maybe, you are planning on entering your bike into a motorcycle show. Since you have invested a lot into your ride, you want to ensure that it reaches its destination, safely. You would not want something to happen to it during transport. Therefore, hiring a professional auto transport company is highly recommended.

Avoid Long Drives.

Motorcycles do not offer the same protection as cars. For this reason, some are not comfortable driving them across the country. In addition, traveling across the country may require one to travel across changes in climate, only to get to your intended destination. While it may be sunny in one part of the country, it could be snowing in another.

Auto shipping is the better solution when you are pressed for time. It can take several days to travel coast-to-coast. You must consider the effect this type of trip will have on the body. However, shipping your motorcycle is not just an option for cross-country moves. Many people choose to ship their motorcycle, even when moving just a few states away.

Avoid Pit Stops.

Time and money are two of the most important factors to many customers when considering auto transport services. Can I save time by shipping my motorcycle? Can I save money by shipping my motorcycle? The answer to both is yes. With driving, you must take into consideration frequent stops for food, gas, and lodging along the way.

Not only does this require time, but it costs money. After adding up the expenses associated with driving your motorcycle from one state to another, it may be more affordable to ship, instead. It is definitely easier to hop on a plane and have your motorcycle shipped to your destination

Avoid Moving-Day Stress.

Moving to a new home is a challenge, because of the numerous tasks that must be completed leading up to the big day. When you are faced with a long To-Do list of tasks, this can cause your stress level to rise. Many people believe that they must transport their motorcycle on their own. Truth is, you don’t. Hiring an auto transport company to handle these services makes the moving process much more enjoyable.

Moving-day tasks can drain you. The last thing you want to concern yourself with is how you are going to get your motorcycle to your destination. Take the stress out of moving, and ship, instead. It is better to invest a little extra money into hiring the professionals, than to pull your hair out doing it yourself.

Situations In Which You Should Ship Your Motorcycle

Red Chopper on brick wall

There are many reasons why a person may choose to use motorcycle shipping services. Here are just a few that may be of use to you in the future.

Moving To Another House

One of the most common reasons for shipping a motorcycle is a relocation. This may be as a result of a change in career. Whatever the reason may be, an auto shipping company can assist you with the move to your new home. Moving to a new city does not have to be difficult.

Taking An Extended Vacation

Going on a vacation is the perfect reason to ship your motorcycle. Retirees, snowbirds, and other seasonal travelers often ship their bikes during the fall and winter months to escape the cold weather. The motorcycle is shipped to their seasonal home. At the end of their stay, the motorcycle is shipped back. Everything is taken care of for you.

Making An Out Of State Purchase

Everyone has their different reasons for making a purchase out of state. Choosing to buy a motorcycle out of state broadens your choices. This allows you to get exactly what you want. However, once you buy the bike, you must consider how you will be getting it home. This is where auto transport would come in, saving you time, money, and energy.

Shipping Multiple Vehicles

Your motorcycle may not be your primary means of transportation. Many families own more than one vehicle. It is not ideal to drive your motorcycle separately from your family. Why not all travel together? When relocating to a new city, you can choose to ship multiple vehicles at one time. Many auto transport companies offer multiple car discounts, meaning you can receive a lower rate when you ship more than one vehicle.

Attending A Motorcycle Show

When you enter your motorcycle into a show, you must take special precautions to ensure that it arrives in pristine condition. The paint must be free of all dents, scratches, and scuffs. After all, you are showing your bike off to other enthusiasts. You want to be proud of what you own. One way to ensure that your bike arrives ready for the show is to to ship with a reputable auto shipping company.

Overview Of Motorcycle Transport

At National Dispatch, we have the best team of auto transporters that love what they do. Our team of staff provides the best customer service from start to finish. If this is your first-time shipping a motorcycle anywhere in the country, we want to ensure that you have an overview of the process, beforehand. This will set your mind at ease knowing that your motorcycle is receiving the best care, possible.

1. Request A Quote.

Use our online quote calculator to receive a free quote in seconds. Contact us via phone to schedule auto transport services.

2. Pick Up Motorcycle.

Upon pick up of your bike, the driver will conduct an inspection to review the condition prior to transport. You will also be asked to sign the Bill of Lading outlining your shipping agreement.

3. Prepare Motorcycle.

There are multiple preparation tasks that must be completed to ensure that transport goes smoothly. We will discuss the specifics, later.

4. Delivery Of Motorcycle.

Your bike will be delivered to your home or place of business, where another inspection will be completed to search for any signs of damage.

Determining How To Ship Your Motorcycle

Auto Transport Truck

When shipping a motorcycle, there are several auto transport services to consider based on what works best for you, your budget, and your schedule. Here are some of the motorcycle shipping options available to you:

Open Transport

This method is the standard method of shipping. It involves securing the motorcycle to an open-air transport truck. Due to the construction of the transport carrier, the motorcycle will be exposed to weather and road elements. If this concerns you, then other options are available.

Enclosed Transport

This method of transport ensures that your motorcycle will be protected from any potential road hazards, such as weather and road elements. It is more expensive than the standard method of shipping. However, it is well worth the price for the added peace of mind that it provides.

Door-To-Door Transport

Door-to-door shipping is exactly what it seems to be. Our drivers will come directly to your specific location, typically your home or place of business, for pick-up and delivery. If the location is difficult for the driver to maneuver the transport carrier, another meeting location will be decided. In either case, this option is convenient and easy, eliminating excessive driving.

Preparing For Shipping

Red motorcycle in Fall

A motorcycle is similar to shipping a car, in that proper preparation steps should be followed prior to transport to ensure that all goes as planned. Failing to perform these procedures before the driver arrives can result in added fees and delays in shipping.

  • Clean your motorcycle. Removing dirt, grime, and debris from your bike is important when completing an initial condition report. During the inspection, you should look for dents, scratches, paint chips, or any other cosmetic damages. This can be difficult if your bike is dirty.
  • Avoid filling up at the tank. Only 1/4 tank of gas is recommended for transport. More gas in the tank means more weight, which can affect your auto transport rate.
  • Perform proper maintenance. This includes ensuring that all necessary fluids are at the appropriate level. You should also be sure to check your tire pressure.
  • Remove all personal belongings. For insurance purposes, it is recommended that you remove all personal items from under the seats and in the saddlebags. Auto shipping companies are not responsible for damages of these items or as a result of these items.
  • Make a list of instructions. You know your bike better than anyone. If there are any special tips and tricks that the driver should be aware of, create a list to give at pick-up.

Learn more about How To Prepare Your Motorcycle For Transport.

Estimating The Cost To Ship Motorcycle

There are many factors involved in determining the cost of motorcycle shipping. Since rates vary depending on the circumstance, it is recommended that you contact the company directly. National Dispatch offers a free, instant quote on the website, which requires absolutely no personal information. Our quote calculator can provide you with an estimate cost for shipping. To lock in your quote, please call us at 800-321-2051.

Some of the factors that may affect your quote include:

  • Distance. If you are planning on shipping your motorcycle across the country, the rate will be higher than if you were to ship just a few states away. It is also important to keep in mind the location and route that will be taken, as more secluded locations may be more expensive.
  • Carrier Type. The type of carrier you choose is based on personal preference. You may opt to use open transport, as it is the most common shipping method. On the other hand, you may decide to go with enclosed transport because of the added protection it provides.
  • Shipping Method. At National Dispatch, we offer three main shipping options. These include economy, priority, and guaranteed. Guaranteed shipping is more expensive, because your motorcycle will arrive sooner.

Choosing National Dispatch

Why do our customers choose to ship with us? Here are a few reasons why National Dispatch is the best option for all your auto transport needs.

  • Safe, On-Time Shipping
  • Excellent Customer Service
  • Nationwide Shipping
  • Online Quote Form
  • Competitive Rates

When you need to ship your motorcycle, contact National Dispatch at 800-321-2051. We encourage you to use our online quote calculator to receive a free quote in seconds. No personal information is required, only four simple fields.

How To Prepare Your Motorcycle For Transport

Transporting A Motorcycle

If you are undergoing a sudden move across the country, buying a new motorcycle, or selling the one you own, auto transport services can make your life simpler. In the case of a move, one major challenge is getting all your belongings to the new house. Your motorcycle will need to get to the new home, as well.

You have several options when it comes to transporting your motorcycle:

Option A: Use a truck and trailer.

This option would require you to either rent all the necessary equipment (i.e. truck and motorcycle trailer) from a rental company if you do not already own the items. Rental fees can add up to $400 or more. Plus, you have to do everything, yourself. If you are not using a rental company, you would need to purchase or have straps, a wheel chock, and other necessary items used to secure your bike in place.

Option B: Drive the motorcycle to its destination.

If the motorcycle needs to be transported a short distance, such as around town, then driving is a viable solution. However, when you plan on driving the motorcycle a longer distance, you must take into account inclement weather and the cost of fuel. Driving across the country may not be something you have time for in your busy schedule.

Option C: Hire a reliable auto transport company. 

This is the ideal solution for transporting a motorcycle. All the work is done for you when you hire an auto transport company, such as National Dispatch. You do not have to worry about buying any equipment. We have all the necessary items to transport your motorcycle safely to any destination in the United States.

Using an auto transport company is the best way to get your motorcycle from your current home to your new one. Whether you are buying, selling, or moving a motorcycle, it is good to know how to properly prepare for transport. Continue reading to find out what exactly needs to be done before the driver arrives at your door.

Preparing For Transport

Similar to an automobile, a motorcycle must be prepared for auto transport. These preparation tasks are necessary for a smooth transport from start to finish. Preparing ahead of time reduces the chances of any damages occurring to the bike in transit.

After booking transport services, you should be provided with a set of instructions on what to do before pickup. Here, we have outlined what you need to do, so you know the basics, beforehand.

Check the steps out below:

  1. Clean your motorcycle. Although it is nice to have a clean bike, this step is more important before completing a visual inspection. Driving your motorcycle exposes it to a number of elements, including dirt, dust, and grime. A clean motorbike is necessary to identify any dents, scratches, or paint chips. This is important in case any damages were to occur during transport, but this is extremely unlikely.
  2. Complete a thorough inspection. You should conduct a complete inspection on your motorcycle, recording any mechanical problems in addition to cosmetic issues. Take pictures of the bike from various angles, and document the current mileage. Make sure that the bike is in good working condition. If it is not operable, just let us know. Look for fluid leaks. If you have any leaks, you will want to get these fixed ahead of time.
  3. Leave 1/4 tank of gas. In most cases, it is recommended to leave some gas in the tank for auto transport to move the vehicle on and off the truck. A large amount of gas in the tank adds extra weight to transport.
  4. Secure loose parts. Remove or secure any loose parts on the motorcycle. This would include such items as saddlebags. This is solely for safety reasons to prevent damage to the bike while transporting. The auto transport company is not responsible for damages from these items or if these items were lost.
  5. Check the tire pressure. The motorbike’s tires should contain the appropriate amount of air in them. Therefore, make sure that each tire is properly inflated before transport.
  6. Remove personal items. Check under the seats and inside the saddlebags. Make sure that you take out all personal belongings.
  7. Write down any special instructions. If there are any tricks and tips that the driver should know about your bike, make a note of them. Give this to the driver upon his arrival to keep for his records.

Hiring The Right Company

We understand that you want to find a reliable company to transport one of your most prized possessions. You want a company that provides the best customer service, offers affordable pricing, and delivers the bike safely and on-time.

You can put your trust in National Dispatch. We will treat your vehicle as if it were our own, giving you security and peace of mind. Requesting a quote is easy. Go to our website to receive a free motorcycle shipping quote in seconds or call us today at 800-321-2051. No personal information is ever required.

Here are a few services to study up on before booking:

  • Open Vs. Enclosed Auto Transport: Open Auto Transport is the less expensive option of the two. If traveling a long distance, it is better to use enclosed shipping for your motorcycle. Enclosed Auto Transport provides added protection from a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow, as well as shields the bike from road elements.
  • Door-To-Door Shipping: We provide door-to-door shipping services. This means that we do our very best to pick up and deliver the vehicle directly to you. Some residential areas with narrow streets can make this difficult. In such cases, the driver will communicate with you to decide on a nearby location to meet.
  • Insurance: National Dispatch offers insured, licensed, and expedited auto transport services. There is no need to purchase special insurance for transport. In addition to what we offer, check with your auto insurance provider to see what it is and is not covered on your vehicle when transporting.

How Much Does It Cost To Ship A Motorcycle?

Price will vary depending on a number of factors, including the distance traveled, transport method (Open Vs. Enclosed), and shipping method. We currently offer three shipping options: economy, priority, and guaranteed. Economy offers an inexpensive shipping option with a wide pickup and delivery window. In contrast, guaranteed shipping will cost you more for a specific shipping date.

For standard shipping and transport options, you are looking at spending between $400 to $600 to transport your bike 1000 miles. This is solely an estimate for you to use as a guide. Prices will vary depending upon your specific pickup and delivery locations. A shorter distance will cost you less. For a specific quote, use our free online quote calculator.

Preparing For Motorcycle Season

You have been waiting all year for this moment. It is the moment when you get to remove the cover from your bike, dust it off, and take it for a ride. It is finally motorcycle season. Before you jump on the back of your Harley, there are a few things that you must take care of. Let’s bring your bike back to life with a quick tune-up and some general maintenance.

Check out this To-Do list to prepare your motorcycle for the season:

  • Check the Fuel System. The fuel system is composed of many parts, including the fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel rail, fuel injectors, throttle, and fuel lines. Check the fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks. Get these repaired if any exist. Replace the fuel filter, and inspect the fuel tank. If the motorcycle contains really old fuel, consider draining and replacing with fresh fuel. Check and clean the carburetor, as well.
  • Top off the fluids. You will want to change the oil and filter. You should change your motorcycle oil approximately every 3,000 miles. In addition, you should check the coolant level to ensure that it is filled to an appropriate amount. Check your brake fluid, which should be changed every one to two years. You need your braking system to be reliable.
  • Inspect the hoses and belts. It is important to properly maintain the belts and hoses, so that your motorcycle runs properly. These parts ensure the internal components move about and work as they should. Look for cracks, leaks, weak spots, and other signs of wear in your bike’s hoses and belts. Replace the parts, if needed. You do not want to be left stranded on the side of the road.
  • Charge the battery. The battery is a common cause for a breakdown. Keep the battery fully charged. Recharge as necessary when you see obvious signs, such as dimming lights. Test the battery with a hydrometer or voltmeter. If it is having difficult holding a charge, it may be time for a replacement.
  • Check the brakes. Having brakes that you can count on are essential for your safety. You depend on your brakes to slow you down when you need it. Check the brake pads, because it may be time for new ones. Also, look at the brake lines to see if there are any cracks or leaks.
  • Inspect the tires. Perform a visual inspection on the tires to look for cracks, bulging, punctures, or any other signs of damage. Use a tire gauge to check the air pressure before you start riding. Your owner’s manual should contain the recommended PSI level for the tires. Add air, if necessary. You should also check each tire’s tread. Tread is important when riding in wet conditions.
  • Check the Electrical System. You want to make sure that all the switches, lights, and gauges are working properly. Therefore, you should test the turn signals, head lamp, rear brake light, and horn. Lights are crucial for visibility, while turn signals notify other drivers of your intentions.
  • Change the air filter. Air filters keep harmful particles from entering your engine. There are several different types of air filters, including paper, foam, and cotton. The cleaning and maintenance will vary depending on which filter your motorcycle contains. Some can be cleaned and reused, while others must be tossed when they become dirty with debris.

National Dispatch

If you are still wondering if National Dispatch is the right company for you, let us tell you a little bit about us. National Dispatch is an experienced auto transport company. Our corporate headquarters is located in Cocoa Beach, Florida. However, we ship thousands of vehicles across the United States for a wide array of customers. Our customers count on us to transport their vehicles in the safest and fastest manner possible.

We ship a variety of vehicles, including classic cars, luxury models, trucks, vans, SUVs, motorcycles, and more. We offer both open and enclosed auto transport options. We also provide shipping options for both running and non-running vehicles.

Choosing to transport your motorcycle with National Dispatch is a great way to avoid all the stress that comes with doing it yourself. Many people do not realize how affordable and convenient vehicle shipping can be. With our online quote calculator, we have made it even more simpler. Just go to our website at https://www.nationaldispatch.com to fill out a free instant, online motorcycle shipping quote. We will not send you a bunch of pesky emails, because no personal information is ever required. You can also call us at 800-321-2051.

If you are thinking about moving across the country or even across the state, you will have enough to worry about without the added stress associated with getting your motorcycle there. National Dispatch can handle all your auto transport needs. You can relax knowing that your vehicle is taken care of.