Ready to ship your motorcycle overseas? Your first question is probably: what’s the best option when it comes to shipping method? Because Ship Overseas ships many wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles, to several countries all over the world, your intended destination will be the determining factor in which port you ship your vehicle to. We’ll help you make that all-important decision.
Here are some FAQs we see a lot in this business. Hopefully, they will make your decision easier.
Q: What if I can’t bring my motorcycle to the nearest departure shipping port?
A: No worries. Let us pick up your motorcycle at a designated spot, as well as handle all aspects of U.S. Customs clearance.
Q: What types of shipping can I use?
A: We offer three main shipping options when shipping motorcycles overseas, but the one you choose will depend on timeline, needs and budget.
- RoRo Shipping: Your motorcycle will be driven onto the ship via a ramp, with the name Roll-on/Roll-off alluding to the fact that cycles will roll-on/roll-off the ramp of their own power. Once on the vessel, your motorcycle will be strapped and secured to prevent movement while at sea. The metal protector under the motorcycle will lock into place to prevent slipping and sliding, and the tires will not move because they will be secured to the metal protector. RoRo, an efficient and cost-effective method of shipping, has reliable departure and arrival dates.
- Shared Container Shipping: This is when your motorcycle is loaded into a container along with many other motorcycles owned by other people, within a warehouse. That container will not leave the warehouse or ship out until it is completely filled with motorcycles. This is to maximize cost and space efficiency. As such, this method does not offer reliable fixed departure dates like RoRo does. However, shared container shipping is cost effective because the shipping costs are split among all vehicles. Rest assured, your motorcycle will still be safe, as it is strapped and secured to prevent movement while at sea. Unlike RoRo, the motorcycles are loaded and unloaded from the container, one at a time, through the use of a forklift.
- Enclosed Motorcycle Shipping: If you can’t drive your motorcycle to the port yourself, we will transport your motorcycle to the departure port for you. We will then load it onto a pallet and strap it down securely, loaded into an enclosed air-ride truck for the most protected ride.
Q: What do you ship?
A: Basically, all kinds of motorcycles and related vehicles:
- Harley Davidson Bikes
- Trikes
- Sports Bikes
- Vintage Bikes
- Touring Bikes
- Choppers
- Custom Built Bikes
- ATVs and UTVs
- Snowmobiles
Q: Do you specialize in Harleys?
A: Yes! We know you want to protect your investment, so if you’re faced with shipping your Harley to another country, you should plan ahead so you’re well prepared. It all starts with getting shipping quotes from a variety of transporters and shippers. Ask for references and then follow up on each. Here at Ship Overseas, we take great care to secure your Harley for the journey, treating it like it’s our own.
Q: What should I do once I have some quotes?
A: As quotes come in, you will be able to review each one, then reply to the service providers directly. This is the time to ask them about their services and their experience in shipping Harleys. Find out how many years they have been in business and how many Harleys they ship on a regular basis. Ask them for an outline of all the safety practices they engage in to ensure your Harley arrives undamaged.
Before accepting a quote, review the shipper’s profile to view their business information, insurance coverage offerings, and feedback received from previous customers. You should be able to view what Harley Davidsons they have shipped in the past, and look into the experience their previous customers had. Check out reviews and take notes – a critical first step to ensuring safe Harley shipping.
Q: How do shipping companies like yours ensure safe Harley transport and delivery?
A: Once you have selected the best motorcycle shipper, inquire about any additional concerns, questions, or information you may have regarding the process of shipping your Harley. Work with your provider to determine a pickup and delivery plan. Most shipping companies provide door to door transport, depending on your unique situation. You could meet them outside of your neighborhood for pick up or delivery if they can’t get to your residential area, or if cost prohibits you from choosing this option.
Q: Will you stay in contact with me every step of the way?
A: Yes. We believe communication is key to a successful shipment. You should always feel comfortable speaking with your motorcycle shipper, no matter which company you end up choosing. Talk with them and bring up any issues you may be facing. Being clear up front will also prevent any unplanned-for snafus from happening.
Q: How much will it cost to ship my Harley?
A: The cost to ship your Harley will depend on the distance traveled, destination country, taxes and fees, the size of the bike, and the services needed to ensure safe transport. The average cost to ship a Harley out of the country is between $1000 and $2000.
Contact Ship Overseas
If you would like a free quote on shipping your motorcycle overseas, give our easy online quote process a try now or call us at 858-547-0840 or toll free at 888-805-4994.