Best Motorcycle Shipping Companies
Here’s the bottom line: The best motorcycle shipping companies are Nexus Auto Transport for real-time tracking, Sherpa Auto Transport for guaranteed pricing, and Navi Auto Transport for budget-friendly shipping. For most riders shipping a standard bike, expect to pay between $400 and $600 per 1,000 miles. Enclosed transport costs more but offers significantly better protection for high-value or classic motorcycles.
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Shipping a motorcycle across the country is different from shipping a car, since bikes can require specialized crating, careful securing, and carriers who know how to handle them. The good news is that most reputable auto transport companies offer dedicated motorcycle shipping, and prices are generally lower than car transport.
Best motorcycle shipping companies
Below are our picks for the best motorcycle shipping companies. Use this table to quickly compare your options, then read on for a full breakdown of each company.
| Company | Best for | BBB rating | Avg. cost per 1,000 miles | Deposit required | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus Auto Transport | Real-time tracking | A+ | $400–$600 | No | All 50 states |
| Sherpa Auto Transport | Guaranteed pricing | A+ | $400–$600 | No | All 50 states |
| Navi Auto Transport | Budget-friendly shipping | N/A (not accredited) | $400–$600 | No | All 50 states |
| RoadRunner Auto Transport | Nationwide direct transport | C+ | $400–$600 | No | All 50 states + Puerto Rico and Caribbean |
| International Van Lines | International shipping | B | Varies | Yes | All 50 states + 180 countries |
| North American Van Lines | Complex moves | A+ | $400–$600 | Yes | All 50 states + 130 countries |
| uShip | Marketplace bidding | A+ | Varies by bid | Varies | All 50 states (availability varies) |
Our track record
Each year, 400,000+ people trust our car shipping recommendations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Founded in 2015
- 2,500+ car shipping companies analyzed
- $50,000 in moving & auto transport grants delivered
- Up-to-date pricing info & industry data
- Fact-checked for accuracy
- Nexus Auto Transport: Best for real-time tracking
- Sherpa Auto Transport: Best for guaranteed pricing
- Navi Auto Transport: Most budget-friendly
- RoadRunner Auto Transport: Best for nationwide direct transport
- International Van Lines: Best for international shipping
- North American Van Lines: Best for complex moves
- uShip: Best marketplace
Best for real-time tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
rating
4.7 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
Nexus Auto Transport is a veteran in the vehicle shipping industry and a strong choice for motorcycle transport, thanks to its real-time GPS tracking and tiered service options. Whether you’re shipping a standard cruiser or a high-value classic bike, Nexus gives you visibility into your shipment’s location from pickup to drop-off via its mobile app.
Nexus offers economy, standard, and expedited service tiers, so you can choose the speed and price point that works for your timeline. The company ships motorcycles in enclosed containers, services all 50 states, and supports a wide range of motorcycle types.
Pros/Cons
- Mobile app for real-time shipment tracking
- Tiered service options for flexibility on speed and price
- Easy online scheduling
- Enclosed motorcycle transport available
- Paying with credit/debit costs more
- No international shipping options
Read our full Nexus Auto Transport review
Best for guaranteed pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
rating
4.5 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
Sherpa Auto Transport earns its spot on this list thanks to its Price Lock Promise, a guarantee that the price you’re quoted is the price you’ll pay. For motorcycle owners who want pricing certainty without surprise fees on delivery day, Sherpa is a standout choice.
Sherpa operates as a broker with a carefully vetted network of carriers, offering door-to-door motorcycle shipping in all 50 states. The company is consistently praised for proactive communication throughout the shipping process, with customers receiving updates at every key milestone. Sherpa requires no upfront deposit and includes a free car wash upon delivery, a nice bonus for riders who want their bike in pristine condition.
Pros/Cons
- Price Lock Promise guarantees your quoted price
- No upfront deposit required
- Proactive communication throughout the shipping process
- Free wash included upon delivery
- No international shipping options
- Operates as a broker, so carrier quality can vary
Read our full Sherpa Auto Transport review
Most budget-friendly: Navi Auto Transport
rating
4.4 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
Navi Auto Transport is a standout for motorcycle shipping on a budget. They offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality or service. Customers pay nothing up front (no deposit required) and still benefit from door-to-door delivery with a dedicated shipping coordinator.
Navi’s hands-on support model and simple booking process make it a great choice for first-time motorcycle shippers or anyone trying to control costs. With discounts available for multi-vehicle shipments and flexible pickup windows, Navi makes motorcycle transport more accessible than many competitors.
Pros/Cons
- No deposit required to book
- Competitive pricing for motorcycle shipping
- Dedicated shipping coordinator
- Numerous discounts available
- Limited international shipping
- Pickup dates aren’t guaranteed
Best for nationwide direct transport: RoadRunner Auto Transport
rating
4 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
With more than 30 years of experience, RoadRunner Auto Transport is one of the most established brokers in the motorcycle shipping industry. Its expansive network of vetted carriers covers all 50 states plus Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, and the company ships motorcycles strapped to a pallet via an enclosed container for added protection during transport.
RoadRunner requires no upfront deposit and offers door-to-door service with online shipment tracking and priority customer support throughout the process. Customers can also take advantage of discounted rates for military members and college students.
Pros/Cons
- 30+ years of industry experience
- No upfront deposit required
- Serves all 50 states plus Puerto Rico and the Caribbean
- Enclosed pallet shipping for motorcycles
- Online shipment tracking available
- Discounts for military members and college students
- Works best with two to three weeks of lead time
- No contact-free delivery options
- Pickup window is typically three to four days
Read our full RoadRunner Auto Transport review
Best for international shipping: International Van Lines
If you’re concerned about whether your chosen moving company will be able to get your motorcycle to your destination, you can’t go wrong with International Van Lines (IVL). This full-service moving and auto transport company doesn’t just help with local and long-distance moves, they also help with international moves to more than 180 countries.
rating
4.6 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
IVL provides roll-on roll-off service, where you drop off and pick up your motorcycle at a port for overseas shipping. You can also choose exclusive container shipping, which offers added protection for your motorcycle, and the option for door-to-door service.
- Related: Best Moving Container Companies
International Van Lines customers love the company’s communicative customer service and ability to deliver items without damage.
When Fabiana used IVL to move from Miami to New York, the binding estimate she received during the quote process gave her peace of mind. Better still, her items arrived undamaged.
Pros/Cons
- Available for local, long-distance, and international moves
- Offers both full-service moving and motorcycle transport services
- Services all 50 states and more than 180 countries
- Offers binding estimates
- Clunky website that is prone to glitches and user-experience issues
- Not accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- May be more expensive than a company that specializes exclusively in motorcycle transportation
Read our full International Van Lines review
Best for complex moves: North American Van Lines
If you find yourself in need of premium service for moving tricky household items in addition to your motorcycle, North American Van Lines is a good choice. In addition to professional packing and moving labor, the company also offers temporary storage during the move process, as well as specialty moving supplies like custom crates and stand-up wardrobe units.
rating
4.83 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
North American Van Lines also has a reputation for fast delivery. For motorcycle shipping, the company generally offers a delivery timeframe of three to seven days. And with its WorldTrac satellite platform, you can get real-time tracking at any time so you always know the location of your motorcycle.
North American will also provide up to $100,000 in coverage with no deductible to ensure your motorcycle is insured against any damages during transit.
When Alexander used North American Van Lines for his move, he was impressed with their effective communication and extremely accurate upfront quote.
Pros/Cons
- Real-time shipment tracking
- More than 500 agents located across the country
- Relatively fast delivery for long-distance moves
- Offers specialty moving assistance in addition to motorcycle transportation
- Storage and other specialty services not available in all locations
- Mover quality can vary depending on location
Read our full North American Van Lines review
Best marketplace: uShip
If you’re looking for a different take on the motorcycle shipping process, uShip is well worth considering. This online marketplace lets you connect with independent movers who have extra space for your motorcycle and other items. You create a listing about what you need moved, then available movers will submit instant quotes for your move.
rating
4.3 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
uShip lets you see reviews and ratings for these movers alongside their quotes, so you can quickly compare your options and find good service at an affordable rate. That being said, there’s no guarantee that movers will submit a bid for your motorcycle move.
Pros/Cons
- Marketplace setup can help you get competitive bids for motorcycle transportation
- Ratings and reviews readily available to compare independent movers
- Offers flexibility for unique moving situations
- No guarantee on the quality of the bids you get
- You might not get any bids that fit your needs and timeframe
Read our full uShip review
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What to look for when choosing a motorcycle shipping company
While many auto transport companies also offer motorcycle shipping services, it’s important to look at a few key attributes when deciding which company to work with:
- Proper licensing: Motorcycle transport companies should be licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Proof of operating authority should be readily accessible on the company’s website.
- Customer reviews: Check out customer reviews for the companies you’re considering, and pay close attention to damage claims and reports about their customer service.
- Years of experience: With more years of experience specializing in motorcycle transportation, you can have greater confidence in a motorcycle shipper’s ability to safely and effectively transport your motorbike.
- Motorcycle shipping quote: After you’ve narrowed down your list, get quotes from at least three motorcycle and car shipping companies. Make sure the quotes are comparable in terms of what is included.
- Availability: Make sure your preferred company is actually available for the dates that you need to move.
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Factors that affect the cost of motorcycle shipping companies
On average, motorcycle shipping costs range between $400 and $600 per 1,000 miles. Of course, the amount you pay could be higher or lower, depending on a few key factors:
- Distance: The farther you need to transport your motorcycle, the more your shipment will cost, in large part due to fuel and labor expenses.
- Door-to-door service: Some motorcycle shipping companies will pick up your motorcycle from your old home and drop it off at your new home, but this will usually cost more than if you drop off your bike at their warehouse/hub location.
- Insurance coverage: If you purchase additional insurance from your motorcycle shipper (such as gap coverage), your shipping costs will go up. Similarly, add-on insurance with a lower deductible (or no deductible) will usually cost more.
- Shipping options: Enclosed shipping is generally more expensive than open transport, since it offers additional protection against road hazards. If you can be flexible with your pickup dates, you can save some money compared to having a strict delivery time frame.
- Motorcycle weight, size, and condition: Many motorcycle shipping companies use the weight and/or size of your motorbike to determine your rate. Smaller, lighter motorcycles will generally be less expensive to ship. In addition, high-value motorcycles or inoperable motorcycles that require special handling may cost more to transport.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle?
Motorcycle shipping costs between $400 and $600 per 1,000 miles on average, though the final price depends on distance, transport type, motorcycle size and weight, and the time of year. A coast-to-coast shipment from California to New York typically runs $700–$1,200 for open transport and $1,000–$1,800 for enclosed. Shorter regional moves of 500 miles or fewer generally cost $300–$500.
What is the best way to ship a motorcycle across the country?
The best way to ship a motorcycle across the country is through a vetted auto transport broker like Nexus Auto Transport or Sherpa Auto Transport, which connect you with carriers experienced in long-distance motorcycle transport. For most standard bikes, enclosed pallet shipping offers the best balance of protection and cost. If budget is your top concern, open transport is a reliable and widely available alternative. Book at least two to three weeks in advance for the best rates and availability, especially during peak moving season in spring and summer.
Is enclosed or open transport better for shipping a motorcycle?
Enclosed transport is the better choice for high-value, classic, or custom motorcycles because it fully protects your bike from road debris, weather, and UV exposure during transit. Open transport is safe for most standard bikes and is typically 30–50% cheaper than enclosed. If your motorcycle is worth more than $10,000 or has sentimental value, the added cost of enclosed shipping is worth it.
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle?
Motorcycle shipping timelines vary by distance and transport type. Short regional moves of under 500 miles typically take two to five days. Cross-country shipments of 2,000 miles or more generally take seven to 14 days. Expedited shipping options are available through companies like Nexus Auto Transport for an additional fee. Keep in mind that most brokers require a pickup window of three to four days, so build that flexibility into your timeline when booking.
Do I need special insurance to ship a motorcycle?
Most motorcycle shipping companies include basic liability coverage in their base quote, but the coverage amount varies significantly by carrier. Standard coverage is typically calculated per pound, which can leave a gap for high-value bikes. If your motorcycle is worth more than the carrier’s standard coverage limit, ask about supplemental insurance options before booking. You should also check your existing motorcycle insurance policy, as some policies extend coverage during transport. Companies like North American Van Lines offer up to $100,000 in coverage with no deductible, which is worth considering for expensive or collectible bikes.
Can you put personal items in your motorcycle when shipping it?
Most motorcycle shipping companies do not allow personal items to be stored on or with the bike during transport, as items are not covered by the carrier’s insurance and can shift during transit causing damage. Some auto transport companies., like Nexus Auto Transport, allow up to 100 pounds of personal belongings in a vehicle’s trunk, but this typically applies to cars rather than motorcycles. Always check with your specific carrier before packing anything with your bike to avoid having items removed or incurring additional fees.
Should you empty the gas tank before shipping a motorcycle?
Most motorcycle transport companies do not require an empty gas tank, but it is strongly recommended to reduce the tank to a quarter full or less before shipping. A full tank adds unnecessary weight, which can affect your shipping cost, and poses a minor leak risk during long-distance transport. You should also disconnect the battery if the bike will be in transit for an extended period and ensure the motorcycle is clean so any pre-existing damage can be accurately documented on the bill of lading before pickup.
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