Most motorcycles weigh less than 1,000 pounds, so you can typically move them yourself. Before you make the decision, however, it's important to understand what's involved. You can move a motorcycle in a pickup, cargo van, trailer, or rental truck, but you'll need a ramp and ratchet straps. For longer moves, professional motorcycle shipping might be a better option.
HireAHelper has helped connect over a million people with professional movers who take care of all kinds of boxes, furniture, and even vehicles. In this guide, we'll explain the process of moving a motorcycle, including the vehicle and equipment you need and how to load and tie down the bike.
Melanie Morris is an editor and writer at HireAHelper, where she uses observational skills honed from over 7 years of experience (and too much detective fiction) to demystify moving and make sure typos remain at a minimum.
Moving from the southwest up and down the west coast and back again has also given her plenty of firsthand moving experience. Now, she makes sure that even if you're just moving down the block, you have the accurate tips and know-how to make your relocation a breeze.
Choosing a moving method is the first step in figuring out how to move a motorcycle. There are four main options:
The right choice for you depends on your budget, how far you're moving, and the type of bike you have.
A pickup truck or van is usually the most affordable way to move a motorcycle, especially if you already own one. You can, however, rent a truck or van for $20 to $50 per day, too. Even the heaviest touring motorcycles tend to weigh less than 1,100 pounds, which is well within the payload capacity of most vans and pickups.
Here's what you'll need:
Make sure to have a friend on hand to help you roll the bike up the ramp safely and position it over the axle for safe weight distribution. This option is easiest for shorter moves — you won't have to worry about theft or protecting the motorcycle from the elements.
Motorcycle trailers and U-Haul rental trucks are the easiest way to move a motorcycle because they're low to the ground for fast, safe loading. Here are the differences and costs between the two:
A hitch-mounted motorcycle carrier is a good way to move smaller motorcycles and dirt bikes (usually up to 300 or 400 pounds). These metal racks bolt to the receiver hitch on your vehicle, so you can transport the bike without towing a trailer. You'll need ratchet straps to attach the bike frame to the rack.
"Check your car insurance policy to make sure you're covered when transporting a motorcycle. If not, you might have trouble getting comprehensive insurance for a DIY move."
This option is best for local moves. If you use this method on long-distance moves, the constant vibration and exposure to the elements can damage the bike. Make sure your hitch is rated for the weight of the bike and the rack, and keep in mind that a carrier could affect your rear visibility.
Expect to pay about $50 per day to rent a carrier. Purchase prices vary widely, but usually range from $200 to $800.
Professional motorcycle shipping is often best for long-distance moves and transporting expensive motorcycles. The shipping company handles logistics, loading, transport, and delivery, so you can focus on the other details of your move. Most companies deliver in 5 to 10 business days, but it might take longer if you're moving to a rural location or you need specialty services.
When shipping a motorcycle, you can usually choose between an open and closed trailer.
Shipping companies include cargo insurance in the price, but it's limited to certain types of damage, and doesn't always cover the full cost of repairs. Fixing damage can be expensive, so for maximum protection, you might consider the carrier's upgraded coverage. It's also a good idea to buy a third-party policy to cover things like theft and weather damage.
When choosing a carrier, make sure to check their proof of insurance and ask for references from past customers. It's also a good idea to read reviews on sites like TransportReviews and UShip. Look for a pattern of red flags, such as damage, late deliveries, or problems with insurance claims, to know what carriers to avoid.
Before you move a motorcycle, take some time to get the bike ready. Careful preparation helps prevent damage in transit, whether you're moving it yourself or shipping it. If you're hiring a professional, make sure to ask them what preparation steps they recommend.
Here's what to check:
Loading and securing are the biggest steps in learning how to move a motorcycle in a U-Haul, trailer, or pickup. You'll need to start the bike and roll it carefully up a ramp. Then, you'll lock it into a wheel chock and strap it to the trailer using ratchet straps. It's important to take your time and move slowly — safe loading and tie-downs protect the bike from damage and ensure that it's stable while you drive.
Ask a friend to help you, especially if you have a heavy motorcycle. They can spot you during loading and help prevent the bike from tipping off the ramp. And when you're tying down the straps, they can hold the bike steady.
Because motorcycles are heavier and more unwieldy than other types of cargo, you'll need the right equipment. Make sure you have both essential and whatever optional supplies you need on hand before you start loading.
You can load a motorcycle on your own, but it's always helpful to have a friend on hand. Also, note that it's safer to roll the bike into the trailer rather than riding it.
Here's how to load a motorcycle:
Careful tie-downs are the most important part of learning how to move a motorcycle. They keep the bike stable in the trailer and help prevent damage in transit. The most common method is the four-point tie-down, which uses four straps to connect the bike to four points on the trailer or truck for stability.
Follow these steps to tie down a motorcycle:
You’ll also want to avoid over-tightening. Your straps should not be so tight that they compress the suspension or damage the frame.
After driving a few miles, stop and re-check the straps. Don't skip this step — it's a great way to spot an unsecured buckle or tighten a loose strap before it has a chance to damage the bike.
When you're moving a motorcycle across the country, it's important to consider the distance and the type of trailer. Long distances can put a great deal of stress on your bike, especially if it's exposed to the weather in an open trailer. And if you put it in a box truck, you'll need to check it regularly to make sure it's not leaking oil or coming into contact with the rest of your stuff.
While DIY motorcycle transport is usually more affordable for moves under 500 miles, you may want to consider shipping for longer trips. Professional shipping isn't that much more for cross-country or coast-to-coast moves, and it comes with more protection and peace of mind. Plus, it's also easier to get insurance coverage when you're working with a licensed and insured company.
Here's how to prepare your bike for professional cross-country shipping:
Need help loading or unloading your bike before or after the move? HireAHelper can help you connect with local movers who can handle your motorcycle with care and coordinate with the shipping company.
A motorcycle is a heavy vehicle, which means that there's a certain amount of risk that comes with moving it. But by following these safety tips, you can protect yourself, your bike, and the trailer:
In general, DIY moving with a pickup truck or a rental trailer is an affordable option for local moves. For longer moves, it's often more convenient and cost-effective to ship your bike. Below is an overview of the costs of the most common ways to move a motorcycle based on distance.
Cost Comparison of Different Transport Methods
| Method | Local (~50 mi) | Regional (~500 mi) | Cross-Country (~2,000 mi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pickup Truck or Van | $20 – $50 | $200 –$500 | $800 – $1,200 |
| Motorcycle Trailer or U-Haul | $20 – $30 | $300 – $620 | $1,000 – $1,800+ |
| Hitch-Mounted Carrier | $30 – $50 | $100 – $300 | $200 – $500 |
| Professional Motorcycle Shipping | N/A | $300 – $700 | $850 – $1,350 |
You can save money with a DIY motorcycle move, but this option is best for local and regional moves. A rental pickup or cargo van is affordable for moves under 50 miles. but Aafter that, you'll end up paying one-way fees. For regional moves, a rental truck could cost $200 –$500, not that much cheaper than a $300 – $620 trailer rental. You'll also need to factor in gas costs.
DIY transport is the cheapest when you're using your own vehicle. However, it's important to factor in the additional wear. Check your car insurance policy to make sure you're covered when transporting a motorcycle. If not, you might have trouble getting comprehensive insurance for a DIY move.
Professional shipping is pretty expensive for shorter distances, which is why many motorcycle owners go the DIY route for local moves. Shipping services are a better option for long-distance moves because the price is comparable to a rental truck, and you won't have to worry about fuel costs or safety.
"Even the heaviest touring motorcycles tend to weigh less than 1,100 pounds, which is well within the payload capacity of most vans and pickups."
Keep in mind that shipping prices can vary by the time of year. If you're moving in the busy summer season, you might pay more than you would for a winter move. Some companies also charge additional fees for home pickup, missed deliveries, and bikes that don't run.
While carriers include basic insurance, you'll probably want to purchase additional coverage. This could run up to $200, but it typically covers more issues and provides a higher reimbursement percentage if your bike is damaged. Insurance is a must if you have a rare, vintage, or high-value bike.
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