Do I need to crate my motorcycle for shipping?
Crating is strongly recommended for international shipping as it provides the best protection. For RORO shipping, crating is not required but the bike must be in running condition.
How to Ship a Motorcycle Overseas from the UK
Step-by-step guide to shipping your motorbike internationally from the UK — covering crating, costs, and regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ship a motorcycle that isn't running?
Yes, non-running motorcycles can be shipped via container. They'll need to be crated and can be loaded by forklift. Additional handling charges may apply.
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle from the UK?
Transit times are the same as car shipping: Europe 5–14 days, USA 14–21 days, Australia 35–45 days. Collection and crating add 3–5 days to the overall timeline.
Can I ship my motorcycle with luggage and gear?
With container shipping, you can include riding gear and accessories inside the crate. RORO shipping does not allow any items to be shipped with the motorcycle.
Can I ship multiple motorcycles in one container to save money?
Yes — a 20ft container holds 4-6 crated bikes depending on size, and a 40ft holds 10-14. Splitting a container with other UK riders heading to the same destination typically cuts per-bike freight by 50-65%. The Ship Cars runs consolidated motorcycle containers to Sydney, Los Angeles and Dubai on a rolling schedule.
Will my UK riding licence work in the destination country?
Short-term yes in most countries via the 1968 Vienna Convention International Driving Permit (£5.50 from the Post Office). Long-term residents must convert to a local licence — straightforward in Australia, USA and most EU states, more complex in Japan and the UAE where a test may be required.
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