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Ship Your Bike Anywhere in the U.S. - No upfront payment until you choose a carrier. Open and enclosed motorcycle transport available. Free estimate — no commitment required.
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Why Riders Choose AmeriFreight Auto Transport for Motorcycle Shipping
AmeriFreight Auto Transport is BBB-accredited with an A rating, and our commitment to customer service shows in every shipment. From first-time riders to seasoned collectors, customers trust us to handle their motorcycles with care. But you don’t have to take our word for it—our thousands of verified reviews speak for themselves.
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What Is Motorcycle Shipping?
Motorcycle shipping is a service that transports your bike from one location to another using a licensed, professional carrier, without you having to ride or drive it there yourself. A carrier picks up your motorcycle at your specified address, secures it on an open or enclosed trailer using dedicated tie-down equipment, and delivers it to your destination.
We search a nationwide network of FMCSA-licensed carriers to find the right match for your motorcycle, your route, and your timeline, at no upfront cost to you.
Motorcycle shipping is a practical choice for long-distance moves and relocations, seasonal storage moves, and transporting a bike to or from a different riding climate. It is also commonly used when purchasing from dealers or private sellers in another state, attending major rallies like Sturgis or Daytona Bike Week, or handling military PCS orders. In general, it makes sense anytime riding the full distance is not practical or safe.
For trips over 500 miles, shipping a motorcycle can be comparable in total cost to riding once you factor in fuel, lodging, wear and tear, and your time. At distances beyond 1,000 miles, shipping is often the more practical and cost-effective option for most riders.
We coordinate the entire process for you, including finding a qualified carrier, verifying their credentials, arranging dispatch, and managing communication from booking through delivery. You will work directly with one AmeriFreight Auto Transport agent from start to finish.
There is no payment required until you review and accept a carrier offer. Door-to-door service is standard where access allows, meaning the carrier will pick up and deliver your motorcycle as close to your specified locations as possible
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Motorcycle?
Shipping a motorcycle in the United States with AmeriFreight Auto Transport typically costs between $300 and $1,200, depending on the distance, the type of transport chosen (open or enclosed), and carrier availability at the time of your shipment. Short-haul routes (under 500 miles) generally run $300–$600. Cross-country routes (over 2,000 miles) typically run $950–$1,200 for open transport.
The estimates below are based on distance bands and typical market conditions. Your AmeriFreight Auto Transport agent will provide a current estimate for your specific bike, route, and dates.
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Motorcycle Shipping Cost Estimates by Distance
These are estimates based on typical market conditions and provided for planning purposes. Actual pricing varies by motorcycle type, shipping date, carrier availability, and seasonal demand. Contact an AmeriFreight Auto Transport agent at ||(770) 486-1010 ||or use the estimate form on this page for a current quote on your specific bike and route.
| Distance | Open Transport Estimate | Enclosed Transport Estimate | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 500 miles | $300 – $600 | $550 – $900 | 1 – 3 days |
| 500 – 1,000 miles | $500 – $800 | $800 – $1,100 | 2 – 5 days |
| 1,000 – 1,500 miles | $700 – $950 | $950 – $1,300 | 3 – 6 days |
| 1,500 – 2,000 miles | $850 – $1,050 | $1,100 – $1,450 | 5 – 8 days |
| 2,000+ miles | $950 – $1,200 | $1,250 – $1,600 | 7 – 10 days |
What Affects the Cost of Shipping a Motorcycle?
DISTANCE
DISTANCE: The most significant pricing factor. Longer routes cost more in absolute terms, but cost per mile generally decreases on longer hauls. A coast-to-coast shipment does not cost four times a regional shipment.
TRANSPORT METHOD
Open transport is the most widely available and cost-effective option. Enclosed transport provides additional protection from weather and road debris but involves fewer carriers and higher estimates. For most standard motorcycles, open transport is the recommended and most commonly chosen option.
MOTORCYCLE SIZE AND WEIGHT
Heavier bikes, touring motorcycles, large cruisers, three-wheelers, occupy more carrier space and add load weight. This is reflected in higher estimates for larger bikes compared to smaller sport or commuter models.
SEASONAL DEMAND
Spring and summer see higher motorcycle shipping demand as riders want their bikes at seasonal destinations. October through November sees high southbound demand on snowbird corridors (Florida, Arizona). Lower demand periods typically see softer market rates, though this is not guaranteed.
CARRIER AVAILABILITY ON YOUR ROUTE
High-traffic corridors (California–Florida, Texas–New York, Chicago–Florida) have consistent carrier availability. Less-traveled routes may see fewer carrier options, which can affect timing and rate.
TIMELINE FLEXIBILITY
Standard service allows carrier assignment within a typical window. Expedited service prioritizes your shipment for faster carrier assignment and is available at an additional cost.
The Cheapest Way to Ship a Motorcycle
Open transport is the most cost-effective method for motorcycle shipping and is suitable for most standard, sport, touring, and cruiser motorcycles. Open carriers operate on more routes, with more availability, at lower rates than enclosed transport.
To get the most competitive estimate on your route:
→ Choose open transport unless your motorcycle specifically requires enclosed protection.
→ Be flexible on the pickup window. A 5–7 business day window for carrier assignment gives your agent more scheduling options than a hard single-day requirement.
→ Avoid peak holiday shipping periods (late December, major summer holidays) when carrier availability tightens across all routes.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport does not require any upfront payment to get an estimate. You can request a quote, review the offer, and decide whether to proceed, with no commitment until you accept a carrier.
How Motorcycle Shipping Works — From Estimate to Delivery
Step 1
Book your order
Fill out our online form or give us a call to schedule your car shipping. We’ll handle the details to make booking quick and easy.
Step 2
Your vehicle is picked up
A fully vetted carrier will be dispatched to your preferred pickup location, where your vehicle will be carefully loaded for transport.
Step 3
Your vehicle is delivered
Your motorcycle will be delivered to your chosen drop-off location. You’ll complete a final inspection, and our care team will follow up to ensure everything went smoothly.
Popular Motorcycle Shipping Routes — Estimates and Transit Times
AmeriFreight Auto Transport arranges motorcycle shipments on routes across the contiguous United States. The routes below are among the most frequently requested — particularly Florida-bound routes from northern and midwestern states, which see peak demand in October through November as riders head south for winter.
Estimates vary by motorcycle type, season, and carrier availability at the time of booking. Use the form above or call (770) 486-1010 for a current estimate on your specific route.
| Route | Open Motorcycle Transport Est. | Enclosed Motorcycle Transport Est. | Distance | Est. Transit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York to Florida | $594 | $1,132 | ~1,300 mi | 4–7 days |
| Chicago to Florida | $798 | $1,479 | ~1,200 mi | 4–7 days |
| Ohio to Florida | $574 | $1,098 | ~1,100 mi | 3–6 days |
| Michigan to Florida | $734 | $1,370 | ~1,300 mi | 4–7 days |
| California to Florida | $973 | $1,777 | ~2,750 mi | 8–12 days |
| New York to Los Angeles | $1,072 | $1,945 | ~2,800 mi | 8–12 days |
| Miami to Chicago | $614 | $1,166 | ~1,400 mi | 4–8 days |
| Dallas to Seattle | $703 | $1,318 | ~2,100 mi | 6–10 days |
| San Francisco to Denver | $574 | $1,098 | ~1,250 mi | 3–6 days |
| Atlanta to Houston | $624 | $1,183 | ~800 mi | 2–5 days |
| Boston to Orlando | $628 | $1,190 | ~1,250 mi | 4–7 days |
| Las Vegas to Salt Lake City | $468 | $918 | ~420 mi | 1–3 days |
| Denver to Sturgis | $628 | $1,190 | ~390 mi | 1–3 days |
Motorcycle Shipping to and From Florida
Florida is the most popular motorcycle shipping destination in the AmeriFreight Auto Transport network, driven by the millions of riders who head south for winter and return north in spring. The Florida motorcycle shipping season runs on two peaks:
→ Southbound peak: October through November — riders shipping from the Northeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic to Florida destinations (Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Naples).
→ Northbound peak: April through May — the return migration as temperatures rise across northern states.
Open transport is available year-round on Florida corridors. Carrier availability is generally strong on Northeast-to-Florida and Midwest-to-Florida routes throughout the season.
Common Florida shipping origins: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Virginia, and Maryland.
Motorcycle Shipping to Rallies — Sturgis, Daytona, Laconia, and Beyond
Motorcycle rallies draw riders from across the country — and for many, shipping the bike is a more practical option than a multi-day ride each way. AmeriFreight Auto Transport coordinates motorcycle shipments to rally destinations including:
→ Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (Sturgis, South Dakota) — the largest motorcycle rally in the world, held annually in August
→ Daytona Bike Week (Daytona Beach, Florida) — held in March, one of the most popular spring rally events
→ Laconia Motorcycle Week (Laconia, New Hampshire) — held in June, the oldest motorcycle rally in the U.S.
→ Republic of Texas Biker Rally (Austin, Texas) — held in June
Rally shipping is time-sensitive. Contact an AmeriFreight Auto Transport agent well in advance of your rally date to discuss routing options and available carrier windows for your destination. Estimates are provided as planning guidance based on typical market conditions
Open Transport vs. Enclosed Transport for Motorcycles: Which Is Right for Your Bike?
Open Motorcycle Transport
Open motorcycle transport is the most widely used and cost-effective shipping method. Your bike is loaded onto an open carrier, a multi-vehicle trailer with dedicated motorcycle securing points, and transported without enclosure to its destination.
Open transport is suitable for most standard, sport, touring, adventure, and cruiser motorcycles. It offers the highest carrier availability across all routes, the most competitive rates, and reliable nationwide scheduling. For everyday motorcycles, bikes that are used regularly, don't have custom modifications, and aren't considered collector or high-value pieces, open transport is the standard recommendation.
Open motorcycle carriers serve most AmeriFreight Auto Transport routes throughout the year. Carrier availability is generally strong on high-traffic corridors.
Enclosed Motorcycle Transport
Open vs. Enclosed Motorcycle Transport
| Factor | Open Transport | Enclosed Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower — most cost-effective option | Higher — specialized equipment and fewer carriers |
| Protection | Exposed to weather and road debris | Fully shielded from weather, debris, and road spray |
| Carrier availability | High — more carriers, more routes | Lower — fewer enclosed motorcycle carriers available |
| Best for | Sport, touring, cruiser, adventure bikes | Vintage, custom, show bikes, and high-value motorcycles |
| AFTA Plan | Optional gap protection available | Optional gap protection available — especially relevant for high-value bikes |
| Typical availability | Consistent on major routes year-round | May require additional lead time on some routes |
Types of Motorcycles AmeriFreight Auto Transport Ships
AmeriFreight Auto Transport arranges shipping for all standard motorcycle types across the contiguous United States. Whether you are shipping a daily commuter, a weekend cruiser, a competition-ready sport bike, or a vintage collector piece, we match your motorcycle with the appropriate carrier and transport method.
| Motorcycle Type | Recommended Transport | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sport Bikes | Open or Enclosed | Most sport bikes are well-suited to open transport. Enclosed is available for high-value or track-spec models. |
| Cruisers (including Harley-Davidson) | Open or Enclosed | The most commonly shipped motorcycle type in the AmeriFreight Auto Transport network. Open transport is standard for most cruisers. |
| Touring Motorcycles | Open or Enclosed | Larger and heavier than most bikes — weight and dimensions are noted at time of estimate. Open transport available on most routes. |
| Adventure and Dual-Sport Bikes | Open or Enclosed | Open transport is the standard choice. Enclosed available for high-specification adventure models. |
| Vintage and Classic Motorcycles | Enclosed (recommended) | Enclosed transport recommended for vintage and classic bikes to protect against weather and road debris. AFTA Plan especially relevant. |
| Custom and Show Bikes | Enclosed (recommended) | Custom builds and show bikes should travel enclosed. Carrier experience with specialty vehicles is a factor in carrier selection. |
| Dirt Bikes and Off-Road | Open or Enclosed | Open transport is available for most dirt bikes. Ensure bike is clean and fuel-drained before transport as required. |
| Electric Motorcycles | Open or Enclosed | Open and enclosed transport available for electric motorcycles. Confirm battery charge requirements with your agent before booking. |
| Trikes and Three-Wheelers | Open (most carriers) | Three-wheelers require confirmation of dimensions at time of estimate. Contact an agent to confirm carrier fit for your specific model. |
| Scooters and Mopeds | Open or Enclosed | Shipped on motorcycle carriers with appropriate securing equipment. Confirm with your agent at estimate stage. |
How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Shipping
Proper preparation before shipping helps ensure your motorcycle arrives in the same condition it left, and makes the pre-transport inspection faster and more accurate. The following steps are recommended for all motorcycle shipments, regardless of transport type.
1. CLEAN YOUR MOTORCYCLE THOROUGHLY
Wash your bike before pickup. A clean motorcycle allows the carrier to conduct an accurate pre-transport inspection and makes any existing scratches, chips, or damage clearly visible on the Bill of Lading. Dirt or road grime can obscure pre-existing damage, creating disputes at delivery.
2. PHOTOGRAPH YOUR MOTORCYCLE FROM ALL ANGLES
Take detailed photos of your motorcycle — including the tank, fenders, fairings, exhaust, wheels, and any custom components — from multiple angles before pickup. These photos are your personal record of pre-transport condition, independent of the Bill of Lading.
3. REDUCE THE FUEL LEVEL
Most carriers require the fuel tank to be no more than one-quarter full (approximately 1/4 tank) before transport. Excess fuel adds weight and creates a fire hazard. Drain the tank to the appropriate level before the carrier arrives.
4. DISABLE THE ALARM SYSTEM
If your motorcycle has an alarm, disable it before transport or leave instructions and the key fob with the carrier. An alarm that activates during transit cannot be deactivated by the carrier and may cause complications.
5. REMOVE LOOSE ACCESSORIES AND PERSONAL ITEMS
Remove or secure all loose accessories: saddlebags, GPS units, tank bags, bar-end mirrors, and any detachable components. The U.S. Department of Transportation does not permit personal items to be transported inside or on vehicles during auto transport. Loose accessories can shift during transit and are not covered under carrier protection or the AFTA Plan.
6. CHECK TIRE PRESSURE AND FLUID LEVELS
Ensure tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid — look for any active leaks. Inform your agent of any fluid issues before pickup, as some carriers may require certification of no active leaks.
7. DOCUMENT EXISTING DAMAGE ON THE BILL OF LADING
At pickup, the carrier will complete a pre-transport inspection and note any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. Review the Bill of Lading carefully and confirm it accurately reflects your motorcycle's condition before you sign. The Bill of Lading is your official reference at delivery — do not sign off on a condition description you disagree with.
8. INSPECT AT DELIVERY
At delivery, conduct a thorough inspection of your motorcycle before signing off. Compare the post-delivery condition against the Bill of Lading completed at pickup. If you identify damage that was not present at pickup, note it on the delivery paperwork immediately. AFTA Plan recipients have 48 hours from delivery to report eligible damage claims through the plan.
Why Choose AmeriFreight Auto Transport for Motorcycle Shipping?
AmeriFreight Auto Transport has been arranging motorcycle shipments across the United States for over 20 years. We are a licensed auto transport broker — which means we do not own trucks, but we do something more valuable: we search, vet, and coordinate a nationwide network of FMCSA-licensed carriers on your behalf, at no upfront cost.
Here is what distinguishes AmeriFreight Auto Transport from alternatives in the motorcycle shipping market:
No Upfront Payment Until You Choose a Carrier
Most auto transport brokers require a deposit the moment you book. AmeriFreight Auto Transport does not charge anything until a carrier has been matched to your shipment and you have reviewed and accepted the offer — including the pickup window, estimated delivery timeframe, and total cost. We do the work first. You decide second.
FMCSA-Licensed Carriers with Motorcycle Experience
Every carrier that AmeriFreight Auto Transport network partners with holds active FMCSA operating authority and carries federally required cargo coverage. For motorcycle shipments, we work with carriers equipped with dedicated motorcycle tie-down systems and appropriate securing equipment for two-wheeled vehicles. Your bike is not loaded onto a truck by an unvetted driver, it is handled by a professional with a verified compliance record.
20+ Years of Experience in Auto and Motorcycle Transport
AmeriFreight Auto Transport has been operating for more than two decades. In an industry where pop-up brokers and short-lived companies are common, our history — and the tens of thousands of verified reviews across six independent platforms, provides a track record that matters when you are trusting someone with your motorcycle.
Motorcycle Shipping Services for Every Rider
Seasonal Motorcycle Shipping — Snowbird Routes Across the Country
If you ride north in spring and south in fall, AmeriFreight Auto Transport makes the seasonal migration practical. Instead of a multi-day ride each way, your motorcycle ships while you travel by air or car. Southbound peak demand runs October through November; northbound peak runs April through May. Many seasonal riders use AmeriFreight Auto Transport year after year. Return customers receive a $50 discount — ask your agent about return customer pricing at the time of your estimate.
Military Motorcycle Shipping for PCS Orders and Relocations
AmeriFreight Auto Transport supports active-duty service members, veterans, and military families who need to ship a motorcycle as part of a PCS move or other military relocation. We understand that PCS timelines are not flexible, and our agents are experienced working with the urgency that military orders require. A $35 military discount is available on all AmeriFreight Auto Transport shipments.
Motorcycle Shipping for Online Purchases and Private Sales
Bought a motorcycle from a private seller or dealer in another state? AmeriFreight Auto Transport coordinates pickup from the seller's location and delivery to yours — without you needing to travel. The Bill of Lading inspection at pickup documents the motorcycle's condition before transport, giving you a clear pre-delivery record for a bike you may not yet have seen in person.
Motorcycle Shipping for Rallies — Sturgis, Daytona, Laconia, and More
Attending Sturgis, Daytona Bike Week, Laconia, or another major rally? Ship your bike to the destination and enjoy the rally — without the multi-day ride each way. AmeriFreight Auto Transport arranges pre-rally and post-rally motorcycle shipments to and from rally destinations across the country. Contact an agent well before your rally date to discuss carrier availability and timing for your destination.
Collectors and Vintage Motorcycle Owners
Vintage, classic, and collector motorcycles require careful handling throughout the transport process. AmeriFreight Auto Transport works with enclosed carriers experienced in handling vintage and high-value two-wheeled vehicles. The optional AFTA Plan gap protection is especially relevant for collector bikes where restoration or replacement costs may exceed standard cargo coverage.
Dealer and Multi-Motorcycle Shipping
Motorcycle dealers and private parties shipping more than one bike at a time qualify for a $50 discount off each additional motorcycle shipped. Contact an AmeriFreight Auto Transport agent to discuss multi-bike shipment logistics and confirm carrier availability for your volume and route.
AmeriFreight Auto Transport Motorcycle Shipping Discounts
AmeriFreight Auto Transport offers discounts for qualifying customers on all motorcycle shipments. Discounts are applied at time of booking after documentation is confirmed. Info rm your agent of your qualifying status when you call or include it in your estimate request. Except for multiple vehicles, only one discount can be applied per order. The Early Bird discount is the only discount that can be stacked with one other eligible discount. Discounts are applied to the deposit after documentation is validated by your agent. A minimum deposit applies — discounts cannot reduce it below the minimum floor. Ask your agent for details. AmeriFreight Auto Transport may be unable to apply discounts if documentation is invalid or incomplete.
| Discount Type | Amount | Requirement | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Military | $35 off | Per request — .mil email also accepted | Inform agent — no documentation required |
| First Responders | $35 off | Employment ID copy | Provide employment ID to agent at booking |
| Medical Personnel | $35 off | Medical ID copy | Provide medical ID to agent at booking |
| Students | $25 off | Student ID copy | Provide student ID to agent at booking |
| Senior Citizens | $25 off | Copy of driver's license | Provide license copy to agent at booking |
| Early Bird | $35 off | Book within 48 hours of receiving your quote | Automatic — noted at booking |
| Return Customer | $50 off | Proof of previous AmeriFreight AT order | Provide previous order number to agent |
| Multiple Bikes | $50 off each additional bike | Per request | Inform agent — applied per additional motorcycle |
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
With our motorcycle shipping service, we offer the convenience of door-to-door auto shipping nationwide, even in Alaska and Hawaii. That means that we pick your motorcycle up and drop it off right at your doorstep, wherever you are.
The price for shipping your motorcycle will depend on factors including size, weight, and condition. But with our Best Price Guarantee, you know you’re always getting the best rates when you ship with us.
The best motorcycle shipping company should offer reliable, cost-effective, and secure services for transporting your motorcycle. AmeriFreight is a top choice for motorcycle shipping, known for its extensive network of vetted carriers and flexible pricing options. With services covering all 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska, AmeriFreight offers both open and enclosed transport options to suit different needs. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, A rating from the Better Business Bureau, and a range of discounts make them a preferred option for those looking to ship motorcycles safely and affordably. In addition, AmeriFreight provides additional protection through its AFTA PLAN gap coverage insurance, giving customers peace of mind during transit.
When you ship your motorcycle with AmeriFreight, you are automatically covered by standard cargo insurance from the carrier. However, this only covers any loss and damage that could occur during transport. So if anything happens during pickup, dropoff, parking, and storage, we’ve got you covered with our AFTA PLAN. It offers gap coverage so that you can report any damages up to 48 hours after delivery.
Getting your motorcycle ready for transport is a big job, and you want to be sure it's all set for the journey. There are a few things you should do to prepare your bike, making sure it's in top shape for the move. One smart step is draining the fluids since the vibrations on the road during the long trip could lead to leaks. Taking these mechanical precautions ensures safe transport, and soon enough, you'll be back on the road without a hitch.
Have a question not answered here? Ask an Expert! Our team of car shipping specialists are here to help. Get personalized answers to your car shipping questions! By choosing AmeriFreight, you can be confident that your car shipping experience will be smooth, efficient, and stress-free. Get your free quote today!
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