How to Ship a Vintage Motorcycle

Vintage motorcycles are incredible machines and should always be handled with care. While they may look like a beast, they are actually fragile and extremely beautiful so they require special care and attention. This is especially true if you are planning to ship your vintage motorcycle. Whether you are moving, traveling, or purchasing a vintage motorcycle across the country, you may find yourself in need of shipping services. You want to be sure you work with a reliable shipping company and take the necessary steps to properly prepare your motorcycle for shipment. Here are a few important things you should know about shipping your vintage motorcycle. 

Research Shipping Companies

You should start by researching shipping companies that are best suited for your needs. Not all auto transport companies are created equal, so you want to find a company that has a great reputation and is experienced with shipping classic motorcycles. Be sure and check reviews, compare pricing, and check for proper licensing and registration requirements prior to choosing a shipping company. 

Choose Your Method of Transport

You will have the option of choosing between an open and enclosed carrier. While open carriers are cheaper, an enclosed carrier offers more protection and is a safer option for a vintage bike. Open carriers leave vehicles vulnerable to bad weather, dirt, rocks, and other debris and this can cause damage to your bike during transit. Enclosed carriers have sides and a roof to provide maximum protection against these outdoor elements. 

Prepare Your Motorcycle for Shipment

When shipping any vehicle, there are certain steps that should be taken to prepare the vehicle for shipment and a motorcycle is no exception. To streamline the shipping process, follow these steps before loading your motorcycle onto a truck:

• Clean your motorcycle and wipe away all dirt on the bike or tires.

• Remove any and all side bags, hardshell cases, and other removable accessories.
• Drain all fluids prior to shipment and do not leave more than ¼ tank of fuel. Shipping a motorcycle with a full tank of gas is a significant safety hazard.
• Reduce tire pressure by letting some of the air out of your tires before shipment. 
• Remove the battery.
• Disable any alarms. 
• Take photographs of every angle of your motorcycle and document its condition prior to shipment.