Many motorcycle enthusiasts want to be able to show off their ride at regional bike shows but don't want to drive their motorcycle to the show. If you're concerned about keeping your motorcycle in pristine condition, you'll want to ship your bike to your destination. Shipping a motorcycle ensures that a motorcycle will reach a specific destination while sustaining minimal wear. There are many motorcycle shipping companies that can transport your vehicle over long distances to your destination of choice.

Motorcycle Shipping Company

Contact a professional motorcycle shipping company to transport your motorcycle. Motorcycle shipping companies are well acquainted with the best practices for long-distance motorcycle transportation. Common shipping practices include securing the motorcycle to a wooden pallet that is loaded into trailers for transportation. Compare cost quotes and available services for a few different motorcycle shipping companies. Ask about insurance options for your motorcycle. Different shipping companies have different guidelines for motorcycle preparation before shipping.

Siphon Gas

Siphon any extra gas from the tank of your motorcycle before shipping it. Some companies don't require gas siphoning, but it will reduce the shipping weight of your bike and reduce the risk of the gas catching fire. You can siphon gas by placing one end of a clean rubber hose into the bottom of your gas tank. Seal up the opening between the gas tank and hose by jamming a rag into the open space. Draw the gas through the hose by sucking on the other end of the hose, taking care not to swallow any gas that gets in your mouth. Pour the gas into an airtight container.

Inspect Your Motorcycle

Give your motorcycle a thorough inspection before leaving it with the shipping company. Remove all of your personal belongings, including any materials from the saddlebags. Keep documented and photographic evidence of the condition of your motorcycle before shipping. This will be good evidence if you need to support an insurance claim.

Extra Parts

Fill out the appropriate inventory forms accurately to ensure that all inventory shipping with your motorcycle reaches its destination. Some shipping companies will allow you to ship extra parts with your motorcycle. Remember to bring your motorcycle's key with you when you pick it up from its destination. You can send a set of keys with your motorcycle by threading a plastic tie through the hole in the key handle and securing it against a handlebar. If you do this, keep a spare key with you in case the key somehow gets lost.

Source:

Haul Bikes: Shipping Checklist

Federal Motorcycle Transport: How We Ship

MoverQuest: Motorcycle Shipping