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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prepare My Motorcycle for International Shipping?
If you want to ship a motorcycle to its final destination without issue, then you must prepare it for international motorcycle transport. Before the carrier arrives to load your motorcycle, we recommend that you:
- Clean Your Bike
The first step to preparing your motorcycle for international transport is thoroughly cleaning it. Make sure to wash away dust and debris. This will make it easier for you to detect any damage or imperfections on your dirt bike. Plus, your bike will be spotless and ready to ride when it arrives at your new home.
- Remove Any Detachable Parts
Your motorcycle is about to travel thousands of miles in the back of a crate or shared trailer. While our international motorcycle shippers are careful to take great care of your bike, it is still going to endure a few bumps along the way.
That is why you should remove any detachable components like windshields or raised seatbacks. If they become dislodged during transit, they could damage your bike.
- Adjust Fuel Levels
Shipping a motorcycle with a full gas tank can be dangerous for auto transport companies. In addition, it adds to the overall weight of your bike, which will increase motorbike freight costs. That is why your gas tank should only have about a quarter full when it is picked up.
- Check Tire Pressure
Your motorcycle’s tires need to be properly inflated before it is shipped. Otherwise, your motorcycle might lean or tip over while in transit. Check that both tires are retaining air and are inflated to manufacturer specifications.
- Repair Any Leaks
Oil or other fluid leaks can cause quite a mess during transit. This fluid could get on other people’s property, as well. If you know that your motorcycle is leaking fluids, make any necessary repairs before booking international motorcycle transport services.
If you cannot make repairs, notify the carrier so that they can take extra precautions to guard against leaks.
- Document Your Bike’s Current Condition
The final step to prepare your motorcycle for transit is to document its current condition. Note any damages and take photographs of your motorcycle from all angles.
When your bike arrives at its final destination, use these photographs as a benchmark to inspect it for new damage. If you have any concerns, contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company so that we can connect you with our insurance team.
What If I Can’t Drop My Bike Off at a Port?
Many of A-1 Auto Transport’s clients cannot drop their motorcycles off at the port. If that is the case in your situation, we can arrange door-to-door transit. A carrier will arrive at your home and load your bike. Then, they will deliver it to the nearest port for international motorcycle transport services.
Does A-1 Auto Transport Offer Multiple Shipping Options?
Yes, The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company works with world-class international motorcycle shippers that offer a full suite of conveyance solutions. Shipping your motorcycle internationally involves both ground and air freight or ocean transit. We offer RoRo, shared container, and enclosed shipping options via ocean freight. If you need your bike quickly, you can opt for air freight.
What is RoRo Transportation?
RoRo means roll-on/roll-off shipping. Your bike will be driven onto the ship and parked in an enclosed container. It will be strapped down and secured so that it does not move during transit. When the ship arrives at the next port, your motorcycle will be driven off the ship.
RoRo shipping is cost-effective and allows for reliable arrival dates. However, sometimes delays occur on occasion due to the complexity of international freight.
What is Shared Container Shipping?
Shared container motorcycle shipping is the most affordable way to ship your bike overseas. When you schedule your pickup, our carrier will load your bike into a container with other motorcycles.
This container is stored in a warehouse until it is filled to capacity. Once enough motorcycles have been loaded into the container; they will all be shipped.
Although cost-effective, shared container motorcycle shipping is not very reliable regarding the pickup date. It could take a few weeks for the shared container to get full. As a result, we recommend something other than this option if you need to get your motorcycle delivered fast.
What is Enclosed Shipping?
Enclosed freight offers the most protection for your ride. If you cannot take your motorcycle to the port yourself, one of our carriers can pick it up from your residence. They will load it into an enclosed trailer that is being hauled by an air-ride truck.
The carrier will deliver it to the nearest port to be loaded onto a ship and transported to your new home.
Can Trikes Be Shipped Internationally?
The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company can facilitate the shipping of a variety of other vehicles, including trikes, along with the following:
- Classic motorcycles
- Quads and ATVs
- Off-road buggies
- Snowmobiles
- Jet skis
If you need any vehicle shipped overseas, A-1 Auto Transport and our partner carriers can make it happen. Contact our sales team and let them find the perfect international shipping solutions to meet your needs.
How Much Does worldwide street bike freight Cost?
The average cost of transporting your motorcycle overseas varies depending on several factors, including:
- Distance
The further your dirt bike travels, the more expensive the motorcycle shipment. Most motorcycle shipping companies charge per mile for shipping during the ground portion of the transit.
- Weight
Carriers will also set rates based on the weight and dimensions of your motorcycle. The larger and heavier your bike, the more space it consumes. As a result, your rates will increase.
- Shipping Method
Ocean freight is more affordable than air freight, especially if you opt for shared container transit. When you work with The A-1 Motorcycle haulage Company, we will discuss all of the available options so that you can choose the most suitable method.
- Deadlines
Many of our carriers offer express worldwide motorbike freight services. However, these services cost a premium. If you need your motorcycle shipped quickly, you might want to select a more comprehensive payment package.
- Pickup Method
Dropping your motorcycle off directly at the port can reduce shipping costs. However, if you need door-to-door cross-border shipping, then we must also arrange ground transport. This extra process increases the shipping cost, but it can be incredibly convenient for you.
What Freight Options Are Available?
The two primary freight options for overseas delivery are air freight and ocean freight. Air freight is the fastest method, but ocean freight is more affordable.
For instance, if you want to ship a motorcycle to Mexico or Canada, the entire trip can be handled via ground transportation.
What is the Cheapest Way to Ship My Motorcycle?
The cheapest way to transport your motorcycle overseas is via shared container shipping. If you aim to maximize savings, opt for shared container shipping during the fall or winter months. Many clients ship their products in the summer to avoid weather-related delays, which escalates the demand for our services.
What is Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping?
Terminal-to-terminal motorcycle transport involves taking your motorcycle directly to a port and picking it up at the destination. Terminal-to-terminal shipping usually applies RoRo loading. This method is efficient and affordable. Often, terminal-to-terminal shipping is available for customers who want specific international motorcycle transportation packages.
What is Door-to-Door Shipping?
Door-to-door shipping maximizes convenience, but it costs a bit more than the terminal option. Instead, we will arrange for a carrier to meet you at your residence and load up your motorcycle. They will then deliver it to the port and load it onto the ship or air freight.
When your motorcycle arrives at your new country of residence, the carrier will put it on a trailer and then take it directly to your home. All you have to do is sign the necessary documents at pick-up and drop-off.
Will the Carrier Notify Me When They Are on the Way?
A-1 Auto Transport or our carrier will contact you approximately 12 to 24 hours before your scheduled loading time. Due to the nature of motorcycle shipping, we cannot provide you with a precise arrival time. Instead, we will advise you of the projected pickup window, usually about four hours.
If the carrier experiences any traffic or weather-related delays, we will reach out to notify you as soon as possible. While these delays are rare, they can happen.
Where Can My Motorcycle Be Shipped?
With the help of The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company, you can have your motorcycle shipped virtually anywhere. We have partners serving multiple continents including Europe, Asia, and even Australia.
If you need a safe and reliable international motorcycle shipping service, contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company.
Do I Need to Be Present When My Motorcycle Arrives?
If you are using door-to-door shipping, you must be present at delivery time. In addition , you will need to inspect your motorcycle for damage and sign receiving paperwork.
However, if you use terminal-to-terminal shipping, you can wait to respond immediately. A-1 Auto Transport can arrange for your motorcycle to be stored on-site if you cannot retrieve it immediately.
Can I Choose My Pick-Up Date and Time?
When you partner with A-1 Auto Transport, we will do our best to accommodate your pick-up date and time. However, we are only sometimes able to do so. The longer you wait to arrange your motorcycle shipping, the more difficult it will be to provide you with your preferred shipping date.
That said, we work with various carriers that can handle last-minute international shipping requests. In addition , we can usually arrange pick-up within three days of your preferred date.
How Soon Should I Book My International Motorcycle Shipment?
The sooner the better. If you want to increase the odds of getting your preferred motorcycle shipping date and time, schedule your worldwide shipping about a month in advance. Shipping your bike overseas involves many moving parts and is a complex undertaking, so it’s best to get started early.
How Long Does intercontinental road bike delivery Take?
As you might expect, shipping your motorcycle overseas takes longer than domestic transit. Carriers must adhere to strict customs and import regulations at departure and arrival ports.
The following factors influence how long it takes your motorcycle to arrive:
- Destination
Shipping your motorcycle to a country such as Mexico or Canada is more efficient than overseas transit. Since these nations share borders with the United States, the trip can be handled via ground transit.
On the other hand, transporting your motorcycle to somewhere like England requires either ocean or air freight.
- Shipping Method
Air freight will drastically reduce international shipping time. For example , motorcycles shipped via airplane typically arrive within a few days to a week. However, this method is more expensive.
Ocean freight can take anywhere from a week to a month. A single delay can result in the ship being held up at a checkpoint for a week or more. So , when we provide customers with estimated delivery dates, we typically give them a broad window to accommodate these potential delays for 100% customer satisfaction.
- Type of Service
You can reduce overall transit time if you live near a port and can deliver your motorcycle directly to the carrier. However, if the carrier has to carry your bike via trailer, the motorcycle shipping time will increase.
- Weather Conditions
Summer is the most popular time to move motorcycles internationally. The warm weather reduces the chances of delays but could escalate motorcycle shipping prices. If you wait until the cooler months, shipping rates could be lowered. At the same time, you could also increase the risk of prolonged transit times.
- Distance
Distance traveled is the biggest factor that impacts how long your motorcycle will take to arrive. Many carriers charge by the mile, but they decrease the per-mile rate as distance increases.
For instance, the per-mile rate for a 1,500-mile trip will be higher than the rate for a 2,500-mile trip.
Is Crating My Motorcycle Important?
Yes, crating your motorcycle is an extremely important step when preparing for international shipping. The loading process will be much more efficient if your motorcycle is pre-crated when the carrier arrives. In addition, crating your motorcycle will reduce the overall cost.
Can A-1 Auto Transport Help Me Crate My Bike?
If you need clarification on crating your own motorcycle, our carriers can help. They will make sure that your bike is crated properly and safely during the entire international journey.
We recommend crating motorcycles, especially if they are rare or extremely high-value bikes. When speaking with our international shipping sales team, ask about full-service crating.
Does A-1 Auto Transport Offer Bulk Discounts?
If you are a dealer that needs to transport multiple motorcycles overseas, you may be eligible for discounts. The best way to find out is to contact the A-1 Auto Transport sales team.
We will discuss your specific shipping needs and find out whether any of our partner motorcycle shipping companies offer reduced rates for bulk discounts. To answer this question accurately, we will need to know where your bikes are being transported from and how many you need to transport.
How Long Will My International Shipping Quote Be Valid?
As most international shipping companies do, A-1 Auto Transport honors pre-set international motorcycle transport quotes until the end of the business day.
Transporting your bike to a different country is complex and requires precise logistical planning. Since several variables are subject to change daily, we cannot guarantee prices for multiple days.
However, we can provide you with a new quote if you reserve your shipping services after the end of the business day.
Can I Track My Motorcycle During International Transit?
Our partner carriers offer simple and accurate tracking services for shipping your motorcycle overseas. You can quickly locate your vehicle by inputting basic information about your shipment. This gives you peace of mind during the entire international shipping process.
Besides, you can access the satellite location of your motorcycle with any internet-connected device, including a tablet or cell phone.
Is My Motorcycle Insured During Shipping?
Yes, your motorcycle is protected during international shipping. A-1 Auto Transport and our carriers are required to provide insurance when shipping items domestically or internationally. However, our coverage may not adequately cover your motorcycle in the event of significant damage or total loss.
Therefore , we recommend purchasing supplemental insurance before transporting your motorcycle overseas. You can acquire this coverage from a dedicated insurance provider.
Your current motorcycle insurance company may also offer supplemental coverage. Look into this coverage before your motorcycle is picked up for shipping.
My Motorcycle Was Damaged During worldwide Transit. What Do I Do Now?
Unfortunately, damage can occasionally occur when shipping your motorcycle overseas. If it does, contact The A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company immediately. We will document the incident and refer you to our insurance company. Our provider will guide you through the claims filing process.
In addition, you need to contact your insurance provider if you purchased supplemental coverage. They will also need to document the incident and file a claim.
If you photographed your motorcycle before it was shipped, include those pictures with your claim. This can expedite the process and help you get the necessary funds to repair your bike.
My Motorcycle Doesn’t Run. Can I Still Ship it Internationally?
Yes, A-1 Auto Transport can facilitate international shipping even if your motorcycle does not run. However, you must let us know when booking your shipping services. We will need to pass this information onto the carrier so they can bring the appropriate loading equipment.
If they are unaware that your motorcycle is not drivable, they may need to reschedule the pick-up.
Can I Ship My Motorcycle Overseas With Loose Parts?
You cannot transport loose or spare parts with your motorcycle. Loose parts pose a danger to the carrier and can cause damage to your motorcycle. These items can also damage other people’s property or impose fines on the motorcycle transport company.
Before your bike is loaded, check to ensure all saddlebags and other storage compartments are empty. In addition, remove any aftermarket parts not securely attached to the motorcycle.
Am I Eligible for a Discount?
The only way to find out is to contact A-1 International Motorcycle Shipping Company. Our motorcycle shipping companies offer a variety of cost-saving opportunities, including discounts for:
- Veterans
- Students
- Government employees
- Dealers
- Healthcare professionals
- Seniors
In addition to the above discounts, many international motorcycle shipping companies offer seasonal rates and bulk shipping savings opportunities. When you reach out to our team, ask them about these potential discounts.
My Motorcycle is Still Not Here. What Happened?
When you arrange international motorcycle shipping, A-1 Auto Transport will provide you with a projected arrival date. For instance, we may advise that your motorcycle will arrive at its destination within 7 to 24 days. If your motorcycle did not arrive after day 7, you have no cause for concern. Check the real-time tracking information or contact us for a status update.
However, if your motorcycle has not arrived by the 24th day, then it may have experienced delays, including:
- Severe Weather
Severe weather can delay ground and ocean transit. These types of incidents are more common during the winter months.
- Permit Issues
Although rare, permit issues with the ocean vessel or ground carrier can occur. If such incidences arise, the carrier may only be granted access to the port once the permit concern is resolved.
- Port Holds
International transport regulations vary from country to country. If your motorcycle is being imported to a nation with extremely strict laws, the carrier may be placed on a hold when it arrives. Your motorcycle can only be offloaded once the hold is lifted, which could take a week or more.
Whenever a delay happens, A-1 Auto Transport will notify you as soon as possible. We strive to maintain open lines of communication for 100% customer satisfaction.
Can I Ship More Than One Bike?
You can ship as many motorcycles as you want. However , many of A-1 Auto Transport’s clients need to ship more than one motorcycle or other pieces of machinery simultaneously.
For instance, we can arrange to ship for both if you own a motorcycle and a car. We are your one-stop shop for reliable international shipping solutions.
Who Will Be Shipping My Motorcycle?
A-1 Auto Transport has been involved in the international shipping industry for decades. During that time, we have formed partnerships with many companies with a great reputation for providing fast, safe, and reliable shipping services.
We have an unwavering commitment to our clients and only work with the best carriers that share our core values and dedication to excellence. So, when you partner with us for your cross-border motorcycle shipping needs, you can rest assured that you will get exceptional service.
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