Crating A Motorcycle For Shipping: Keep Your Bike Safe During Transit

If you need to move a motorcycle, you may be wondering what the best way is to keep your bike safe and secure while it’s being shipped. Crating is a great option. Using a purpose-built crate, you can strap down it and secure it tightly, keeping it safe from debris, moisture, vibration, and a variety of other issues that could otherwise put it at risk.

Got questions about crating, or not sure if it’s a good option for you? Let’s explore the basics of crating, and answer a few common questions that you may have about the process.

Why Should I Use A Box To Move?

Choosing to use a crate to move has a few different benefits. To name just a few, these include enhanced security, the ability to ship more gear with it, and even lower costs, in some cases. Let’s take a deeper look at these benefits now.

• Enhanced safety & security – The most obvious benefit of a crate is that it completely encloses your vehicle and protects it from damage during the process. Not only that, but it also hides it from view – which may be desirable if you’re moving a very valuable bike and you’re worried that it could be subject to theft or vandalism in transit.
  
• Ship your gear with your motorcycle – Most boxes have additional tie-down points that allow you to move extra gear with it. If you have spare parts, riding gear, maintenance supplies, or aftermarket accessories that you need to haul, you can often send them in the same container as your
  bicycle.
• Benefit from lower costs – Because delivery can be more easily shipped alongside other types of freight, you may be able to save some money on hauling. This depends on your carrier, however, so inquire about cost savings from crating when you get a quote for delivery.

It is essential to realize that not all companies will be equipped to handle bikes since a forklift and a loading dock will be required to move a bicycle. It’s best to do some research and find a reputable company near you that has experience crated.

Where Do I Get A Box?

Crates are sold online, and can also be provided by some companies. You may also be able to get boxes from a dealership for a low cost since most new motorcycles are hauled to dealers.

If you’re shopping for a crate, you’ll need to make sure you pick the right box. Consider factors such as:

• Your bike’s dimensions
• The weight
• Whether or not you want to move additional gear in the crate
• Your desired material. Crates are usually made out of wood, but some are available that are made of metal
• The crush strength of the container(how much weight it can bear before collapsing)

The cost of a crate can vary quite a bit, depending on the type of box you choose and where you purchase it from. The average cost is around $200-$500. This may seem a bit steep, but investing in a trunk will provide better protection – and you can reuse it in the future if you think you may need to haul it again.

Can I Build My Box?

Yes. It’s possible to build your crate using a few basic tools, which may be a less expensive option if you are handy. You don’t need much special equipment – just a table saw, hammer and nails, a drill, and some additional hardware. The video guide below is a great resource and can help you build your custom box to save some money.

How Should I Prepare For Delivery?

You should document its condition, disconnect the battery, drain most of the fuel, secure any gear or loose items, and make sure that your it is properly tied down.

• Document the condition of your motorcycle – We highly recommend that you use a camera or smartphone to take pictures of it before you ship it, even in a container. Taking photos ensures that you will have proof of its condition. And if it’s somehow damaged during the transit process, you can use these photos to get the appropriate compensation.
• Disconnect battery & drain fluids – Most companies will require you to disconnect your battery and drain most of the fuel from your tank. Most movers won’t require you to drain other fluids like oil and brake fluid, though.
• Tie down your bike – Using ratchet straps and tie-downs, make sure that your motorcycle is secured and fastened in an upright position, and will not move or shift during the transit process. Once you’ve tied it down, do your best to wiggle and shake it out of place – if it doesn’t move, it’s properly secured.
• Secure loose items – If you are moving additional gear and equipment with it, such as riding gear or spare parts, make sure they are properly secured and tied down, and will not shift or move during the transit process. This is particularly important for heavy items.

Need To Haul? A1-AT Can Help!

At A1-AT, we can help you ship vehicles of any type both domestically and internationally, thanks to our large network of freight specialists. If you need to move and you would like to crate it for hauling, we can help you find the right partner. Contact us online or give us a call at (888) 230-9116 for more information, and get started right away.