Motorcycle Shipping to Another State: Costs, Options & Tips
Whether you’re moving, buying a bike from out of state or sending your motorcycle to a rally, shipping a bike across state lines is often the easiest choice. Understanding the costs and available transport methods helps you select the right service and avoid surprises. This guide explores average prices, key cost factors, transport options and preparation tips so you can confidently ship your motorcycle to another state.
Average Motorcycle Shipping Costs
Motorcycle transport is usually charged by the mile. According to Federal Motorcycle Transport, the average cost to ship a motorcycle in an enclosed trailer is about $996, or roughly $0.53 per mile. Example lane prices include California–New Jersey ($1,450, $0.41/mile) and Florida–California ($970, $0.36/mile). Costs vary by distance, route and shipping lane popularity.
In general, you’ll pay between $0.30 and $0.70 per mile depending on your route. Shipping within the continental U.S. is cheaper than shipping to Hawaii or Alaska, where ocean transport adds extra fees.
Key Factors Affecting Motorcycle Shipping Price
- Transport type. You can choose open or enclosed transport. Open carriers are budget friendly but expose the bike to weather and road debris. Enclosed carriers protect your motorcycle and typically cost about $150 more.
- Bike size & weight. Larger or heavier motorcycles take up more space and increase the quote. Oversized bikes or those with sidecars may incur additional fees.
- Mileage & route popularity. Longer distances increase costs. Shipping along popular routes (e.g., major interstate corridors) may reduce per‑mile rates.
- Pick‑up & drop‑off location. Rural or hard‑to‑access locations can add fees for “beyond” or residential delivery. Using a carrier’s terminal/warehouse may save money.
- Additional services & insurance. Expedited shipping, extra insurance coverage, storage and attempted delivery fees can all raise the final price.
- Discounts. Some carriers offer multi‑bike discounts, rally discounts, or reduced rates for military members and motorcycle club members.
Open vs. Enclosed Motorcycle Transport
Deciding between open and enclosed transport depends on your motorcycle’s value and your budget. Open transport is the most affordable option but leaves your bike exposed to rain, dust and road debris during transit. It’s suitable for standard or commuter motorcycles and shorter distances. Enclosed transport shields your bike inside a trailer, protecting paint and finishes and using pallets and straps to secure the motorcycle. Enclosed transport is ideal for high‑value, vintage or custom bikes and for long‑distance shipping.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Shipping
Proper preparation helps ensure safe transport and speeds up pick‑up and delivery:
- Clean the bike so you can document its pre‑shipping condition.
- Take photos and record any existing damage.
- Remove personal items and accessories (GPS devices, saddlebags, etc.).
- Check the battery, tire pressure and fuel level (around one‑quarter full).
- Disable alarms and fold in mirrors or handlebars if needed.
- Provide a spare set of keys and sign the bill of lading at pick‑up and delivery.
FAQs
- How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle 1,000 miles?
- Rates vary by carrier and transport type, but you can generally expect $0.30–$0.70 per mile, meaning a 1,000‑mile shipment will cost roughly $300–$700.
- Is open or enclosed shipping better for my motorcycle?
- Open transport is cheaper and works for standard bikes; enclosed transport costs about $150 more but offers protection against weather and road debris.
- Can I ship my motorcycle with personal belongings or gear?
- No. For safety and liability reasons, carriers typically prohibit personal items; accessories should be removed before shipping.
- How long does it take to ship a motorcycle across the country?
- Transit times depend on distance and route popularity. Most cross‑country shipments take 5–12 days; expedited options may shorten the window but cost extra.
- Do I need extra insurance for my motorcycle?
- Carriers include basic coverage (often up to $15,000) in their quotes, but you can purchase additional coverage for high‑value bikes.
Shipping your motorcycle to another state doesn’t have to be complicated. By comparing open and enclosed options, understanding cost factors and preparing your bike properly, you can enjoy smooth, worry‑free transport. For more details on vehicle shipping methods, see our guide to door‑to‑door vs. terminal car shipping.