While any modern pick up truck is often all you need to transport a couple of Harley Davidsons secured on its rear bed, it pays to know the right motorcycle transport company that will do the job. There are choices in nearly all cities and municipalities, from specialized transport companies to full auto transport companies that also include transporting these two-wheel or three-wheel road vehicles.
There are generally just a few things to look for when choosing a motorcycle transport company. The primary considerations depend on your needs. Here are some things that you should consider:
Where are you going?
If you are going overseas, then you have the choice to go by air, by sea, or by land. Over land, it can be a freight coach in a train or a vehicle carrier. Air freight is always the most expensive option on a per-mile basis. If you are just sending your vehicle within the country, then a vehicle carrier is the most logical choice.
Is the company licensed?
This is a basic consideration. The last thing you want is to load your motorbike onto a carrier vehicle that will just speed down the road–never to be seen again. It is simply not enough to have the driver’s name, plate number, and contact details.
Can the motorcycle transport company track your vehicle?
If the move will take days such as an interstate or coast-to-coast relocation, then it is important to have a company who can tell you where your motorcycle is at any given moment. A simple tracking number with a 24-hour hotline helps. Some of the big boys also have an automated system, which you can use to track online or on a cellphone.
How do they plan to transport it?
Check out how the motorcycle transport company plans to ship your bike or what specific services they can provide in transporting it. Crating your motorbike with shock absorbent materials and wheel chocks are not difficult, and is considered one of the more secure means of transporting it. Using fully enclosed motorcycle trailers with slide-out tilting beds securely latching the bike is another option. Movers often use pick-up trucks specially equipped with ramps that easily slide out to accommodate moving a motorbike onto the bed. Some will also tie down the bike with soft straps or place a tarpaulin cover over it. The level of protection and security you need will often dictate your choice.
What is their experience?
Experience and years in the business of moving can provide some peace of mind that your motorcycle is in good hands. Ask your friends and family if they have had experience in using a motorcycle transport company.
In connection with experience, check if the company has the means to handle specific motorbike types or even brands. Some specialize only in scooters or mountain/offroad bikes, while others specialize on all types, including large V-twins and racers. You may want to verify those instead of just taking their word for it.
Do they offer basic insurance?
Most companies generally have basic insurance that will generally cover any serious road accident that may damage the motorbike. However, make sure that you look into the provisions of the insurance before proceeding. Inadvertent damage caused by projectiles or parts from your motorbike falling apart due to uneven roads is rarely covered. And if they are, claiming the company damaged your bike once you receive it is difficult to prove. You may want to consider getting a separate no-questions-asked insurance either from the shipping company or from a broker to cover these things.
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