How to Transport a Dirt Bike

There's nothing quite like the feeling of tearing down a track on a dirt bike at 60 miles per hour. The wind in your face, the adrenaline coursing through your veins! Dirt biking is a truly thrilling experience; some people get hooked on the sport for life.

But what happens if you want to take your bike to a new city, state, or overseas? Maybe you're moving to a new city or going on vacation and want to bring it to hit the trails when you arrive.

While there are various ways to haul, it can be tricky, especially if you don't know what you're doing. The best option will depend on factors like how far you're going, how many bicycles you need to deliver, and whether or not you want to be able to ride it as soon as you arrive at your destination.

So strap on your lap belt because this article will help you figure out all your options to haul, so you can get it where it needs to go without any drama.

Reasons for Hauling

There are several reasons why someone might want to haul across the state, country, or foreign country.

Why you're planning to deliver is an important consideration affecting your options. The most common reasons for moving include:

• Moving to a new city, state, or foreign country and wanting to bring it with you (remember to check endorsement requirements to ensure you have a valid driver's license)
• Going on vacation and wanting to be able to ride when you arrive (remember to check endorsement requirements to ensure you have a valid driver's license)
• Needing to haul for a race or event
• Buying or selling and needing to ship it to the new owner

Note: If moving interstate, you can check with the relevant Bureau of Motor Vehicles to check valid license requirements, including driver's license, license reinstatement, license plate, and endorsement.

Factors to Think About Before Delivery

If you search online for information, you're likely to find many articles about hauling, but not much information about bikes.

Moving needs a customized approach to handling it properly. So it's crucial to do your research when choosing a company to ensure they have the right equipment and the required experience.

Without the right knowledge, something as simple as not using straps for vehicles correctly can result in damage to it during delivery. If you're hauling more than one bike, you also need to ensure they're secured to prevent them from bumping against each other and causing damage.

You also need to calculate distance, value, and budget. How far you're delivering will affect prices and whether you'll encounter import regulations. The total cubic centimeters of your shipment will also affect the price.

The value of your bicycle will also determine the type of method you choose and the level of insurance protection it requires. For example, bicycles with an electric motor are relatively pricey, so you'll want adequate cover.

These choices will impact your budget. So plan to find what you can afford and the specialists available, and arrange quotes from a few companies to compare their prices.

Enclosed vs. Open Air Method

When it comes to moving, there are two main types: enclosed and open-air. Both have pros and cons, so it's important to understand the differences before deciding which is best for you.

The value of your bike is a big consideration. For example, suppose you have a brand-new bicycle or one in mint condition. In that case, enclosed transport will offer the best protection from the elements and potential damage.

Enclosed hauling is when it is moved in a completely enclosed trailer. This offers the highest level of protection from the elements and potential thieves, but it's also the most expensive option.

Open-air might be the better option if you're on a budget or moving multiple bikes. Open-air involves dispatching on an open trailer. Take into account that it will be more exposed to the elements and potential damage. So, this option is best if you're only traveling a short distance.

Crating A Bicycle For Moving

Many people think they can make their own crate for dispatching by themselves. However, you should research to ensure you're making the right choice because it's not as simple as just nailing some wood together.

First of all, you need to ensure that the crate is sturdy enough to protect it during transport and that it meets all the requirements of the company.

For instance, many international regulations require that the wood used is ISPM15 treated. There are tough penalties in place for non-compliance, and you could even have it confiscated.

Another consideration is the extensive preparations required for the bike itself. Crated method need extra attention. It's important to drain all fluids and to remove the battery and handlebars.

Crates also need to be as compact as possible. Most fees are calculated on size and weight, so every cubic centimeter matters. If you're thinking about disassembling it, you should consider the risks involved in reassembling it under new conditions at the new destination.

But don't worry, if you choose a professional company, they will crate it so it meets all the requirements.

Door-to-Door Service

When it comes to hauling, many people prefer the convenience of door-to-door services. This is when the mover comes to your house to pick it up and delivers it to your door at the new destination.

A door-to-door service has a couple of benefits. First of all, it eliminates the need to drop off and pick it up at a designated location. Secondly, it offers a higher level of security because it will be safely delivered to its destination without the risk of theft or damage.

This service is usually more expensive, but it's worth it for its convenience. Of course, if it is brand new or has an expensive electric motor design, you'll want to know it's safe.

Additionally, if you factor in storage costs, door-to-door service may save you money. That's because opting to deliver directly to the final destination means you're not paying for both hauling and storage.

Be aware that not all companies offer door-to-door services, so be sure to check with the firm before booking delivery.

Terminal-to-Terminal

This option means it is dropped off and picked up at a set location, commonly a depot. Terminal-to-terminal is the cheapest option for moving but isn't as convenient as door-to-door arrangements.

There's also the cost of getting it to and from the terminal. This can be a hassle if you don't have a way to haul it. Plus, there's the added risk of storing at the terminal.

How to Protect the Process

No one wants to think about it being damaged or lost during delivery, but the reality is it can and does occur. That's why taking a few precautions to help protect it during the process is important.

Remember to clean it before it's shipped. This may seem like a no-brainer, but dirt and grime can cause damage to it during hauling. So, take the time to wash it before it's loaded onto the truck.

If you're moving internationally, removing all loose items from it is a good idea. Unlike vehicles such as a car or a 3-wheel motorcycle, where you might have to check everything from the gas pedal, brake pedal, and clutch pedal to each lap belt, this process is easier.

You will, however, need to remove things like mirrors, lights, and reflectors if you have them installed. Not only will this prevent them from being damaged during transport, but it will also make them lighter and easier to haul.

You should also take photos of the bike before it's loaded. Then you'll have something to compare its condition with when it arrives at its destination. If there is any damage, you'll be able to see it clearly and document it for insurance purposes.

Insuring It During Hauling

A fully licensed firm should offer affordable insurance options to cover it while it is being moved. Ask about this when you're discussing delivery. This way, you can be sure your vehicle is protected against any damage that may occur during transit.

When you're choosing an insurance policy, it's important to make sure that it covers the full value of your bike for the authorized period. And check to see if there are any exclusions in the policy. Some policies don't cover damage caused by weather conditions or rough handling.

Tracking

Most agencies offer satellite tracking as an optional add-on service. Satellite tracking is a great way to keep an eye on it. It allows you to see its location at all times and make sure it's being handled properly.

If you're moving long distances, tracking is an absolute must. That's because it can take weeks to be delivered, and you'll want to be able to check on its progress and make sure everything is going according to plan.

Other Tips

Here are a few more tips:

• Make sure it is drained of fuel before transport (this will help reduce the risk of fire or explosion during transit).
• If possible, remove the battery and pack it separately. (This will also help reduce the risk of fire or explosion.)
• For electric motorcycles, you'll want to remove many of the high-cost components (these are pricey to replace if damaged in transit).
• Remove any mirrors, license plates, and reflectors (to protect from damage and lighten the weight).
• Use tie-downs or straps to secure it, so it stays in place on the truck. This prevents it from shifting and being damaged during hauling.
• Cover it with a tarp or blanket. This will help protect it from damage during loading and unloading.

There's a lot to consider when moving. However using a professional company can help make the process a lot easier as they will automatically implement all the safety requirements needed to get it safely to its destination, so you can continue to enjoy life in the bike lane.

How to Choose the Right Firm

If you've noted all the advice so far, you have likely concluded that the corporation you choose to move it. Here are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a company:

• Make sure the firm is experienced with hauling has a valid license and is insured.
• Choose an agency that offers satellite tracking.
• Check online reviews of companies specializing in vehicles and their ratings.
• Check their delivery time frame.
• Find out if they have experience specifically moving (rather than autos in general).
• Find out if they are insured and fully licensed.

Summary

Here's a summary of what you need to look out for before booking a firm to haul, whether to other states or foreign countries.

You should understand the different types of options available to ensure you choose the best option for your needs and budget. If it is in great condition, or if you have one with an electric motor, the enclosed method is the safest option.

But an open-air trailer is cheaper. This may suit shorter distances and time frames. So, if you're not in a rush and aren't worried about achieving maximum miles per hour delivery time, this may be a better option.

Door-to-door is the most convenient method, and although more expensive up front, it may save you on storage costs.

But if you have the means to easily drop off and pick up the bike from a terminal location, you may prefer to save money with that option. However, for valuable autos, including electric motorcycles, you may want to avoid using terminal storage.

Importantly, ensure the organization you choose to haul is fully licensed and insured. When getting quotes, ask about their insurance policies and whether they offer satellite tracking.

If all this information makes you feel like your head is spinning at 100 miles per hour, do not forget that by simply following the tips we've described, you can make sure it arrives safely at its destination.

A1-AT can meet all your needs. To get things rolling with an instant quote, simply fill out this simple form or contact our friendly customer service team for a free estimate.