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Motorcycle Shipping Tips: Three Things to Do Before Shipping Overseas

TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHIPPING

There’s nothing more exhilarating than opening the throttle and taking your motorcycle out on the open road — unless, of course, that  road is one you’ve never seen before. Your motorcycle is often the best way to explore another country because there’s nothing between you, the scenery, and the feeling of being out in the open. That’s why many motorcycle enthusiasts take their bikes with them when they travel overseas. However, a motorcycle isn’t exactly carry-on luggage, which means you need to understand the process of shipping your motorcycle overseas before you can take advantage of the freedom it will give you on your adventure.

Here are a few tips for international motorcycle shipping that will help get your bike to your destination safe and sound.

STRIP IT DOWN

The best way to help ensure your bike doesn’t get damaged in transit is to remove anything extra and strip it down to the essentials. That means removing any saddle bags, mirrors, and anything else that might become loose or snagged on anything during the trip. By doing so, you’ll reduce the risk that your bike may be damaged while being shipped.

CHOOSE CRATING

You have two main options when shipping your motorcycle overseas. You can have your bike crated, which means it essentially is packed in a container during shipping. Or, you can choose open shipping, which means your motorcycle will be strapped down but still exposed to the open air. The choice is yours, but typically crated shipping is better for motorcycles because it means there’s less chance that your motorcycle will be damaged by the elements during the trip. A lot can happen on the ocean, after all.

PICK THE BEST SHIPPING COMPANY

Not all auto transport companies are created equal, so when shipping your motorcycle overseas, be sure to do your homework. Always ask the shipping company how much experience it has with shipping motorcycles specifically, because they’re different than other vehicles or large items. Make sure you ask about the shipping company’s insurance and whether or not it is bonded and licensed. Also, be sure you get more than one quote so you can compare prices.

My Second POV understands what it takes to transport motorcycles safely overseas. If you’re preparing for an international deployment where you and your bike can enjoy the open road, contact us today to get a free quote.

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Top 3 Things to Do Before Shipping Your Vehicle

There are many instances in which having your car or truck shipped from one place to another makes more sense than driving it there yourself. You may be relocating to a foreign country. Your family might be moving cross country and need your second car to be there when you arrive. Or perhaps you purchased a vintage automobile at an auction and don’t want to risk any damages in transit. Whatever the reason, sorting out the process ahead of time can save you time and frustration. This car shipping guide offers three key tips that will help.

  • Make sure your transport company is registered with the DOT

    Transport companies must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They also need to have a Motor Carrier Number with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can check the carrier’s status on the websites of these agencies or ask the company to provide you with proof. If it isn’t willing to do that or doesn’t appear on the government databases, that’s a red flag that the company probably shouldn’t be entrusted with your vehicle.

  • If you’re shipping internationally, look for FMC registration

    If you have to arrange for an overseas shipment, one of the most important car transport tips you can follow is to make sure the provider is registered with the Federal Maritime Commission. This ensures that the company you choose has been thoroughly vetted and is licensed. Without that registration, you may be taking an unnecessary risk with one of your most valuable assets.

  • Prepare your vehicle properly

    Taking time to prepare the car is one of the most essential car shipping tips because it can protect you against damages. Be sure to remove all loose items from the interior and the trunk. If there are any aftermarket exterior features such as spoilers, remove them and ship them separately. Give the car a good cleaning inside and out and take photos to verify its condition before shipping. Finally, empty all but a quarter of the gas in the car’s tank. The company may require this, but it also will reduce the vehicle’s weight and your costs.

  • We’re here to help

    As a recognized leader in the logistics world, My Second POV knows more about transporting vehicles than just about anyone. When you choose to work with us, you’ll receive expert service and the highest level of professionalism. To learn more about how we can help you, get in touch with us today and let us arrange for a safe and smooth trip your vehicle.