How Do You Pack a Motorcycle in a Shipping Container?

Shipping motorcycles via container is a popular solution for long-distance journeys. But proper planning and execution are necessary to guarantee an uninterrupted, damage-free journey.

Professional motorcycle transport companies and freight forwarders offer various motorcycle transport services with different delivery times and costs. They also have recommendations about how to pack a motorcycle for shipping in a container.

Explore the motorcycle packing guidelines for a shipping container in this article.

The Benefits of Using a Shipping Container

Using a shipping container for motorcycle transport provides numerous benefits.

One of the biggest advantages is the ultimate protection it offers your bike.

• Safe and secure: Thanks to the container's sturdy structure and lockable design, your motorcycle remains safe throughout shipping.
• Protected from the elements: Your bike will be sheltered in bad weather. The construction of the container will keep your bike in pristine condition during the shipping process.
• Additional goods: Shipping containers allow you to transport your motorcycle alongside other goods without worrying about damage during transit.
• GPS tracking: The tracking system lets you track your motorcycle's journey and be aware of its impending arrival.

If you want to save money on motorcycle shipping and protect your investment, consider using a shipping container for your motorcycle transport needs.

Preparing the Motorcycle for Transport

Preparing a motorcycle for transport is crucial in ensuring its safe arrival at its destination.

Whether using a freight forwarder or a professional motorcycle transport company, prepare your motorcycle properly before loading it into a shipping container.

Here are some motorbike shipping preparation steps.

Step 1: Personal effects and heavy dirt removal

Removing all personal effects and heavy dirt from your motorcycle before shipping it in a container is advisable.

Personal effects add unnecessary weight, which can lead to additional charges. Furthermore, personal effects may shift during transit, potentially causing scratches or damage to the motorcycle or other items in the container.

Meanwhile, dirt adds to the risk of damage during transportation. Heavy dirt should result in scratches and paintwork damage during transit. So before packing the motorcycle for transport, ensure it has been professionally cleaned of dirt and grime build-up.

Cleaning your bike before shipping ensures it arrives at the destination in excellent condition.

Step 2: Fuel level and tire pressure check-up

It's also important to always check your bike's fuel level and tire pressure before transporting it.

Having no more than a quarter tank of gas is recommended during shipping. This prevents fuel leaks and spills that can pose potential hazards during transportation. It also reduces its weight.

Additionally, checking tire pressure will prevent damage during transit. Overinflated tires may burst and cause harm to the motorcycle. But underinflated ones may lead to the bike moving around in the container, resulting in scratches or dents.

Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in your motorcycle's tires accurately. And refer to the owner's manual for the recommended tire pressure.

It's also advisable to have any necessary repairs or replacements done before preparing your motorcycle for transportation.

Step 3: Rear wheel removal (optional)

Removing the rear wheel from your motorcycle is optional. But doing so may help decrease its overall dimensions and make it more manageable when shipping container sizes are limited.

However, remember that taking this step is optional, and only those experienced with motorcycle mechanics should attempt it.

If you're confident in your ability to remove the rear wheel, here are some DIY tips.

1. Start by loosening the wheel nut and removing the chain or belt.
2. Disconnect the brake caliper and remove the wheel from the swingarm.
3. Secure any loose parts, like the caliper and wheel nut, in a safe place.

Removing the rear wheel can add more complexity to the motorcycle shipping process and may result in additional fees from the shipping company.

Before attempting to remove the rear wheel, consult your owner's manual or seek guidance from a professional motorcycle transport company. They can provide information on the proper techniques for safely removing the wheel without causing damage to the bike.

Before deciding to remove the rear wheel from your motorcycle, carefully evaluate all benefits and risks involved with taking this step.

Step 4: Pre-inspection report

Before placing your motorcycle into a shipping container, it's essential to document any damage before shipping. This step is crucial as it will serve as a reference point for comparison upon delivery of the bike.

1. Take pictures of all angles of the bike and note any scratches or dents that are already present on the motorcycle.
2. Keep a copy of your pre-inspection report in case any disputes should arise later on.
3. Send a copy to your transporter as proof before sending your motorbike.

A professional motorcycle transport company can produce inspection reports, or you can create one independently.

Having a pre-inspection report allows you to enjoy a delivery free from risks. If further damages occur, the documentation will give you an easier time taking care of complaints and claims.

Step 5: Insurance Coverage

When transporting motorcycles, purchasing insurance coverage for the shipment is highly crucial. It will help protect your motorbike.

Insurance premiums will depend upon the value and other aspects of the bike in question, among other variables.

Consult a specialized shipping company, as they are equipped to offer insurance options tailored specifically for you and your requirements.

You may want to buy additional coverage, such as liability insurance coverage.

Packing the Motorcycle in a Shipping Container

If you plan to transport your motorcycle, packing it in a shipping container is a practical option.

However, ensuring your bike is packed correctly is essential to avoid damage during transit.

Here is the how-to instruction manual for transporting a motorcycle.

Guide for Packing a Motorcycle in a Shipping Container

Once you have chosen the right size container and professional motorcycle shipping company, it's time to pack your motorcycle.

Here are the steps you'll need to follow:

1. Secure the bike to the container by using tie-downs and straps. Make sure to strap down both handlebars and place the front wheel in line with the rear wheel. Securely fasten all parts of the bike to avoid damage during transit.
2. Inspect your motorcycle for any loose or missing parts, such as mirrors, lights, and exhaust pipes, that need to be replaced before shipping.
3. Remove and secure the battery and gas tank, and fill the tank to a quarter full with a stabilizer to prevent corrosion during shipment.
4. Disconnect the spark plug wires to prevent the motor from working in transit.
5. Check that all tires have sufficient air pressure before packing them into the container. By doing this, your bike won't become vulnerable due to being transported with low air pressure levels and thus become damaged from flat tire impacts during its journey.
6. Protect the motorcycle with a tarp or blanket to shield it from dirt and debris during shipping.
7. Place your bike in the shipping container and seal it securely for shipment.

Once you've selected an ideal shipping container and professional motorcycle transport services, your bike is guaranteed to reach its destination safely in its previous state.

Secure Motorcycle Shipping

Packing a motorcycle in a shipping container can be intimidating. But you can definitely accomplish this task with the right tools.

Take your time with the packing. Follow the steps carefully to ensure that your motorcycle arrives safely at its destination.

Whether relocating or shipping a motorcycle to a buyer, knowing how to pack it in a shipping container properly can save you time and money. You will have less stress, too.

With this article as a guide, you can pack your motorcycle like a pro and successfully send it in one piece.

You can accomplish this feat more easily by working with a trustworthy shipping company. A1 Auto Transport makes motorcycle delivery easier. We have the expertise to ship your motorcycle worldwide with proper preparation.

Browse our services and get your free quote today.