Common mistakes to avoid when shipping a motorcycle

As a motorcycle shipping company, we have seen it all when it comes to the mistakes people do when shipping their motorcycles.  Shipping mistakes can lead to costly repairs, lengthy insurance claims, and even irreparable damage to your motorcycle. This post will highlight the 5 most common mistakes and offer expert tips on how to avoid them. By avoiding these mistakes, you can protect your investment and enjoy a stress-free shipping experience.

Not Preparing the Motorcycle for Shipping

Before you ship your motorcycle, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Failure to prepare your motorcycle could lead to damage or other issues during transit. One of the most common mistakes is failing to clean the motorcycle thoroughly. Dirt, grime, and debris can scratch the bike’s paint, making it look dull and unattractive. Additionally, it’s crucial to remove all accessories and loose items from the motorcycle, such as mirrors, saddlebags, or GPS devices. These items could fall off during transit and cause damage to your motorcycle or someone else’s.

Another important step is to drain the gas tank and disconnect the battery. Failure to do so could cause damage or even an explosion during transit. Finally, take detailed photos of your motorcycle before shipping it, so you have evidence of its condition in case of any disputes with the shipping company.

You can read more in detail about preparing your motorcycle for shipping here.

Choosing the Wrong Shipping Company

Choosing the wrong shipping company is another common mistake to avoid. Many people choose a shipping company based solely on price, but this can lead to subpar service and potential damage to your motorcycle. Look for a reputable motorcycle shipping company with a proven track record of delivering bikes safely and on time. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from fellow riders, and research the company’s history and credentials. Additionally, make sure the company offers insurance coverage for your motorcycle during transit, so you’re protected in case of damage or loss.

Read about What To Look For In A Reliable Motorcycle Shipping Company.

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Mark Cronenweth

Once the seller and I settled the pickup window, these folks loaded my sidecar rig the very next day, and delivered it 750 miles just 24 hours later! The process was smooth and professional. Communication by the office staff and the driver was excellent.

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Mark

Da Houdini

Matt picked up my vehicle on time and called prior to arrival. He transported my motorcycle quickly and in the same condition I left it. He answered the phone when I called a day early and overall great experience with good communication.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the business

Martie Cohen

Prompt arrival. Extremely quick delivery of my motorcycle. Great price! Would definitely recommend!

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Martie

Shane Skelton

Start to finish my experience was great. When I called to enquire on shipping I spoke to a human with no wait time who walked me through the process. I also love the tracking option where you can see where your bike is at all times.

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Shane

Myles

They picked up and delivered when they said they were going to. I am really happy with this moving company. I was worried since it was the first time I had ever shipped a bike, but there was nothing to worry about with them. Thank you so much. Bike arrived clean and undamaged.

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Myles

Lewis Matthew Miller

I have shipped two motorcycles with AA Motorcycles. The process was simple, with a two business day window selected. The bike was loaded onto a crate, less than two weeks later the bike arrived, each time. No issues, perfect delivery, will be using these delivery services again. Thank you!

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Lewis

nyc 2255

My experience using AA Motorcycle Shippers has been excllent. I used them 4 months ago for one bike NYC to Florida. And just last week a second motorcycle NYC to Wisconsin. Both times with great success.With both shipments, estimates were extremely easy and quick. The scheduling and pickup was incredibly fast (pickup within a few days of scheduling) and the shipping time was efficient and prompt. Both bikes arrived quicker than the estimated shipping window.All phone interactions with the company were highly professional, competent, and friendly.Zero damage to both bikes. It's just amazing you can have access to your ride as if it just left the origin garage.My dealer in NYC recommended AA and I'm really happy with this company and will continue to use them and recommend to anyone in need.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the continued support. We appreciate your business.

Toby Ozias

Good communication and on time pick up delivery!! Thank you

Response from the owner: Thanks for the business Toby

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Not Providing Accurate Information

When shipping your motorcycle, you need to provide accurate information to the shipping company. Failure to do so can lead to delays, additional fees, or even the cancellation of the shipment. Make sure you provide the correct pickup and delivery addresses, along with any special instructions or requirements. Additionally, provide accurate information about your motorcycle. This information will help the shipping company determine the appropriate shipping method and ensure your motorcycle is transported safely.

Improperly Securing the Motorcycle for Transit

The truck driver will do this, but this is another thing to keep in mind in shipping a motorcycle is ensuring that it’s tightly fastened for transit. Failing to properly secure your bike can result in it shifting or falling during transit, leading to significant damage or even a total loss. To avoid this, use high-quality straps or tie-downs to secure the motorcycle to the pallet or crate securely. Additionally, make sure the bike’s center of gravity is balanced, and all loose parts are removed or secured.

Ignoring Delivery Requirements and Conditions

It’s also essential to pay attention to delivery requirements and conditions. Failure to do so could result in your motorcycle being returned to the shipping company or even being abandoned at the delivery location. Make sure you are available to receive the shipment or provide someone trustworthy who can receive it on your behalf. Additionally, ensure that the delivery address can accommodate the size of the shipment and that any necessary permits or special instructions are obtained in advance.

Here’s Our Motorcycle Shipping Calculator

Using a motorcycle shipping calculator is an excellent way to get an accurate shipping cost for your motorcycle. Our calculator takes into account some required fields such as the type of your vehicle, as well as the origin and the destination zip codes. By using our shipping calculator, you can get the exact amount of how much it will cost to ship your motorcycle and budget it accordingly.

At our motorcycle shipping company, we understand how important your motorcycle is to you, and we’re committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable shipping services. If you’re in need of motorcycle shipping services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’ll be happy to provide you with a free quote and answer any questions you may have about our services.