The easiest and the most fun way of transporting a motorcycle is to saddle up and drive it yourself. Little compares to the feeling of taking your bike out on the open road, opening it up and seeing what it is capable of. However there are times when this is simply not possible. If you are working and have to have it sent during the week, if you need to have it delivered yo a new country entirely or if you need to move multiple bikes for example.

Choices

When you do not have the chance to ride the hog yourself, you will likely have to rely on the delivery services of a transport provider. More specifically, a transporter that deals solely with moving motorcycles. Motorbike transporters will have the experience and equipment necessary to load, transport and unload your bike quickly and conveniently.. Your motorbike will either be placed inside the transporters van/lorry or towed on an open or enclosed trailer.

Alternatively, you can have your bike shipped by freight. This will likely be the cheaper option if you are planning on having it moved internationally. If you choose this option, your bike will be loaded into a crate and delivered to a shipping depot. Transport in this case is not between exact locations. Removal companies are often not suited to vehicle delivery and you should try to hire a professional bike transporter.

Cleaning your bike

This may seem like an unnecessary step, especially if you choose to have it transported by open trailer. This isn't just for aesthetic reasons though. After the bike has been washed, any scratches, dinks and any other damage will instantly become more apparent. Equally, it will make it easier to see if any damage has occurred during transit.

Checks

Make sure the battery is fully charged and check that no liquids are leaking. Remove any additional equipment attached to the bike. You can still have extras transported, as motorbike transporters will usually be happy to include spare parts for your motorcycle, documentation and keys at no extra cost.

Fluids should be topped up, the petrol tank emptied or filled to a quarter full and the tyres inflated if the motorcycle is functional.. If the motorbike is not operational you should tell the transporter. This will be taken into consideration when they organise the delivery of your bike..

Create an inventory of all the existing faults, quirks and damages the bike has. This will serve you well should a dispute ever arise during motorcycle transport. Taking dated photos of your motorbike will also help your case.