Classic, Custom & Restored Motorcycle Shipping

Why the motorcycle's details matter

A restored factory motorcycle, a long-fork custom build, and an irreplaceable survivor may all need different handling considerations. Before quoting, provide the year, make, model, condition, finished dimensions, modifications, and anything the independently assigned carrier should know before pickup.

Custom handlebars, low ground clearance, extended frames, oversized fairings, hard saddlebags, delicate finishes, and non-original parts can affect trailer fit and loading. Accurate details help avoid surprises when the carrier arrives.

Open versus enclosed transport

Enclosed transport shields the motorcycle from weather and road debris during transit. That added protection is often a priority for owners of restored, collectible, rare, or high-value motorcycles. Open transport is still a practical option for many motorcycles and routes.

Moto Relay does not apply one answer to every motorcycle. When both options fit the vehicle and route, we can quote open and enclosed service so the owner can compare actual availability and pricing. Read the full open versus enclosed motorcycle transport guide.

Document the motorcycle before pickup

Thorough photographs are especially important when the paint, chrome, upholstery, accessories, or restoration work are difficult to replace. Before pickup:

• Clean the motorcycle enough for its condition to be visible.
• Photograph all four sides in good light.
• Take close views of paint, chrome, wheels, seat, gauges, exhaust, and custom parts.
• Record any existing scratch, chip, dent, stain, or mechanical issue.
• Keep the photographs and review the pickup condition documentation.

Continue with the complete motorcycle shipping preparation checklist.

Carrier information and physical handling

Physical pickup, loading, securement, transit, unloading, and delivery are handled by the independently assigned carrier. The carrier's licensing, insurance, and applicable USDOT or MC information can be provided directly to the customer.

Review the documentation, verify the motorcycle's condition at pickup and delivery, and raise any concern before the motorcycle is moved. Our motorcycle shipping buyer's guide explains what to review when comparing a shipping company and assigned carrier.

Door-to-door instead of depot-to-depot

Moto Relay does not send motorcycles through storage depots and does not crate them for forklift handling. Door-to-door service reduces terminal trips and avoids adding depot and crating steps to the shipment. Pickup and delivery are arranged as close to each requested address as the transport vehicle can safely and legally reach.

Compare the handling and custody differences in our door-to-door versus depot-to-depot guide.

A real restored-motorcycle shipment

Moto Relay arranged enclosed transportation for a rare, completely restored 1974 Suzuki GT750 from Corinth, Texas, to Glendale, Arizona. Loading and unloading went smoothly, and the customer was delighted with the completed delivery.

See the photos and shipment details in the 1974 Suzuki GT750 transport story.

What to include in your quote request

• Pickup and delivery ZIP codes or cities
• Year, make, model, and current condition
• Whether the motorcycle runs and rolls freely
• Finished dimensions and ground clearance when modified
• Custom, rare, fragile, or irreplaceable components
• Open, enclosed, or both transport preferences
• Preferred timing and access restrictions

Moto Relay quotes the actual route and motorcycle rather than a generic national average. See the motorcycle shipping cost factors that can affect a shipment.

Classic and custom motorcycle shipping questions