motorcycle shipping companies canada: how reliable carriers move your bike

How the process works

Across Canada’s long distances, motorcycle shippers use enclosed or open carriers, palletized crating, and liftgate pickup to keep bikes upright and secure. You book a window, the carrier inspects, straps the frame at anchor points, and provides condition notes for insurance. Many offer door-to-door in cities and terminal handoff for remote areas.

Timing, cost, and coverage

Quotes hinge on distance, season, rural access, and bike weight. Cross-border moves add customs paperwork and brokerage. Typical domestic transit can run a few days regionally to one to two weeks coast-to-coast, with weather buffers in winter. Reputable companies include declared-value coverage and GPS updates; verify limits and deductibles.

Preparing your motorcycle

Before pickup, reduce fuel, disconnect accessories, photograph existing marks, and provide a rollable key. Note immobilizers and alarms so drivers can load smoothly. Clear handlebars and secure loose parts to avoid claims.

• Ask about enclosed vs open and crating options
• Confirm pickup windows and transit estimates
• Verify insurance limits and exclusions
• Check damage documentation and tracking
• Compare fees for rural access and storage