For many motorcycle lovers, a bike isn’t just a ride. It’s part of your identity, your weekend therapy, your pride and joy. So when the time comes to ship it—whether it’s across the state or across the country—it’s natural to worry about what could go wrong.
Motorcycle shipping is convenient, but it’s not without risks. That’s why one of the smartest questions you can ask before handing your keys to a transport company is: Do I need insurance when shipping my motorcycle? Spoiler alert: yes, you probably do. And here’s why.
Why You Might Be Shipping Your Motorcycle
There are plenty of good reasons to ship a motorcycle. Maybe you’re moving to a new city and want your bike to meet you there. Maybe you’ve bought your dream Harley or Ducati online from another state. Or maybe you’re headed to a rally or race and want to skip the miles and wear on your tires.
Whatever the reason, shipping can save time, wear-and-tear, and headaches. But it also means putting your bike in someone else’s hands. That’s where insurance becomes essential.
The Risks of Shipping a Motorcycle
Most reputable transport companies take excellent care of the bikes they haul. Still, accidents happen. Trucks get in crashes. Bikes can get scratched, dropped, or even stolen in rare cases. Weather, rough roads, and human error all play a role.
If your motorcycle is damaged in transit, it could cost thousands to repair—unless you’re properly insured. Don’t assume your shipping company’s base coverage will fully protect your ride. It often doesn’t.
Does the Transport Company Provide Insurance?
One of the first questions you should ask your shipping provider is: “What kind of cargo insurance do you carry, and what does it actually cover?”
Most reputable motorcycle shippers carry cargo insurance, often through third-party commercial truck insurance providers like CargoPolicy.com, to protect the vehicles they transport. However, just because they’re insured doesn’t automatically mean you’re fully covered.
Coverage limits can vary, and in some cases, the insurance may only cover a portion of your bike’s value. For example, if your motorcycle is worth $15,000 and the carrier’s policy only covers $5,000 per vehicle, you could be left footing the bill for the difference if something happens.
Even worse, not all policies cover every type of risk. Some may exclude theft, weather damage, or incidents that occur while loading or unloading the bike.
That’s why it’s important to ask for proof of insurance and understand exactly what’s included in the coverage—before your motorcycle is loaded onto the trailer.
Why You Might Need Additional Insurance
Here’s the truth—you can’t count on transport insurance alone. That’s why a growing number of riders choose to purchase separate motorcycle shipping insurance. This gives you better protection and more peace of mind.
Think of it like this: you wouldn’t ride without insurance, so why would you ship without it?
What Does Motorcycle Shipping Insurance Cover?
Specialized cargo insurance typically covers:
- Damage caused during loading or unloading
- Theft during transport
- Accidents in transit (including if the transport truck crashes)
- Weather-related damage (depending on the policy)
- Vandalism while in the carrier’s possession
Coverage varies by provider, so read the fine print. Some policies may even cover the cost of delayed delivery or missed events due to shipping issues.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of motorcycle shipping insurance depends on several factors, including:
- The value of your motorcycle
- The distance being shipped
- The type of shipping (open vs. enclosed)
- The deductible you choose
In general, standalone insurance is very affordable—especially when you consider what it could save you in the event of damage or loss. For example, protecting a $10,000 motorcycle during a cross-country shipment might cost between $50 and $150 depending on coverage limits and policy terms.
Open vs. Enclosed Shipping: Does It Matter?
Yes, it does. Open carriers expose your motorcycle to the elements—rain, snow, road debris—while enclosed carriers provide a higher level of protection. Enclosed shipping is more expensive, but it drastically reduces risk.
If you’re shipping a high-value or rare bike, enclosed shipping with additional insurance is the smart move. That way, you’re covered inside and out—literally.
Can Your Current Motorcycle Insurance Cover It?
You might be wondering if your regular motorcycle insurance covers shipping. In most cases, it does not. Standard policies usually only cover you while you’re riding—not while your bike is in the care of a transport company.
Some insurers offer transport endorsements as an add-on, but these vary widely by provider. Always call your insurance company and ask. Don’t assume you’re covered.
Tips Before You Ship
Before you send your bike off, take a few precautions to protect yourself:
- Take clear photos of your motorcycle from all angles. Date them.
- Document any existing scratches, dents, or damage.
- Remove any loose or custom accessories that could get lost or damaged.
- Make sure your gas tank is less than a quarter full (a standard requirement).
- Confirm the insurance policy in writing—including what’s covered and what’s not.
These simple steps make it easier to file a claim if anything goes wrong—and they help you prove the condition of your bike before shipment.
Final Thoughts: Is Shipping Insurance Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re already investing hundreds—or even thousands—into shipping your motorcycle, spending a little more to fully protect it just makes sense.
No one wants to think about accidents, but the open road (and the open trailer) comes with real risk. Having the right insurance means your motorcycle is protected no matter what happens on the journey.
