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How to ship a motorcycle in NZ

These tips will make shipping your motorbike a stress-free, straightforward process.
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How to ship a motorcycle in NZ

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New Zealand is a beautiful country featuring breathtaking landscapes and scenic routes perfect for exploring by motorbike. Whether you're planning on buying a new motorbike or need one shipped to you in a move, the process may seem daunting, especially if you've never done it before. However, with the right information and preparation, it can be a straightforward and stress-free process.

Get multiple quotes

Getting multiple quotes for shipping your motorbike is recommended to ensure you get the best deal and service for your money. Different shipping companies will offer different prices, services, and shipping options. By asking for multiple quotes, you can compare and contrast the details of each company, including the cost, transit time, insurance coverage, and handling procedures and choose the best provider for your needs. Asking for multiple quotes can also help you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected costs or complications during the shipping process. Additionally, the more information you have regarding cost, the more you can negotiate and lower your shipping cost.

Find a moving company that specialises in moving motorbikes 

Choosing the cheapest moving company, is never a good idea, especially if your chosen provider doesn't specialise in handling motorbikes. While you might save money, you could be putting your pride and joy at risk. Choosing a moving company with a good history of handling motorbikes will ensure they have the right equipment to keep your bike safe, and secure and avoid any damage during the move. 

Decide how you want to transport your bike 

When it comes to transporting your motorcycle, you have two main options: choosing an enclosed trailer or an open trailer.

An enclosed trailer is a covered transport trailer that protects your motorcycle from weather elements, road debris, and theft. It is the preferred option for high-value motorcycles or for transporting your bike over long distances, as it ensures the bike remains in pristine condition upon arrival. Enclosed trailers are more expensive while an open trailer is a more cost-effective and widely available option.

Open trailers provide little to no protection from external elements and are better for moving your motorbike short distances or for moving bikes that aren't as valuable. An open trailer is not a good option for motorcycles with custom parts, as these parts may be more exposed to damage.

Ultimately, the choice between an enclosed or open trailer depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the specific needs of your motorcycle.

Consider additional insurance

 Whether the moving company you chose has insurance or not, it is still good to purchase your own insurance especially if you are shipping an expensive motorcycle. The moving company’s insurance may not be enough, so it’s better to be sure you have enough coverage in case the worst happens. If you already have motorbike insurance ring your provider to ensure that your policy covers damage during transportation.

Prepare your motorcycle 

Before your movers collect your motorcycle, ensure it’s all prepared for the journey. 

  • Clean your motorcycle thoroughly, including the tires, wheels, and engine. This helps to prevent any dirt, dust, or debris from damaging your bike during transportation.
  • Remove any loose or non-permanent accessories, such as mirrors, luggage, and saddlebags, and pack them separately.
  • Drain the fuel tank to less than a quarter full to prevent any fuel leaks during transportation. If the fuel tank cannot be emptied, it should be filled to the brim and stabilized with a fuel stabilizer to prevent damage to the fuel system.
  • Disconnect the battery, and if possible, remove it from the bike and pack it separately.
  • Take photos of your motorcycle from all angles before it is loaded onto the trailer to document any pre-existing damage.
  • Secure any loose parts, such as brake and clutch levers, with zip ties or tape to prevent them from moving during transportation.
  • Check the tire pressure and ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels.

Moving your motorcycle is a lot easier when you hire professionals. For a hassle-free search of motorcycle transport providers, use Wise Move. Get access to New Zealand's most trusted motorcycle movers nationwide.

Expert motorcycle movers at low-cost

(All Covered. No Hassle.) Expert motorbike transport service. Trusted by thousands of motorbike owners across NZ.
Motorcycle type
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What do our customers say?

Read reviews of Wise Move to learn stories from our customers.
$300
Toi Toi, Nelson
Alicetown, Lower Hutt
10
Steve
Reviewed 12 hours ago
Highly recommend. Very pleased with the service and communication. Competitive rate also.
$335
Mount Roskill, Auckland
Petone, Lower Hutt
10
Lachlon
Reviewed 2 days ago
Easiest transport I’ve had done, Easy right the way through. Will definitely use again
$500
Motorcycle KTM Duke 890R
Central Dunedin, Dunedin
Cockle Bay, Auckland
10
Lee
Reviewed 2 days ago
Earlier than predicted. Great to deal with
$510
Motorcycle Yamaha Yz250
Otorohanga, Waikato
Ngātīmoti, Tasman
10
Luuk
Reviewed 2 days ago
Excellent communication. Prompt delivery. Can't fault there service
$295
Invercargill, Southland
Saint Albans, Christchurch
9.5
Paul
Reviewed 3 days ago
Good team, delivered the bike as communicated. Very competatively priced
$490
Whangarei, Northland
Selwyn Heights, Rotorua
10
Terrayna
Reviewed 3 days ago
Tricky Freight was the perfect delivery service ! Very efficient and easy to deal with . They kept me updated throughout the process and the Harley was delivered safe
$425
Motorcycle Aprilia Rsv4
East Tāmaki, Auckland
Blenheim Central, Blenheim
10
Tristan
Reviewed 3 days ago
Russ did a great job ! Very happy with the service, cheap and reliable
$310
Motorcycle Suzuki vstrom 650
Alexandra, Otago
Rolleston, Canterbury
10
Karl
Reviewed 3 days ago
Excellent service cannot fault.

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