Shipping your motorcycle overseas.

If you would rather ride your own bike, than risk the quality and type of hire bike you can get overseas. You may be considering shipping your bike by plane; to your destination.

It's not the cheapest option for European destinations, however by the time you've added up the road costs, ferry charges, running costs it may work out cheaper depending on your destination.

It is the ideal and most practical solution for motorcycle trips in Africa, South America, Thailand, India and Australia/Oceania. (Based on travel from the UK)

Where to start

Your first airport of call, will be to locate an air-freight company which ships to your destination, from your location.

Ensure you have set dates in mind, that you have the size (full dimensions, length, width, height) of your vehicle and also it's weight.

Obtain more than one quote, as the size of the company used will effect the price you end up paying.

Your journey and transportation

It may be that you will travel on the same plane as your bike, however you may need to arrange separate passenger travel. This depends on operator.

In it's simplest form, once organised you should simply be able to ride your bike to the airport approximately 24 hours before take-off, officials will empty the fuel tank, disconnect the battery and deflate the tyres and pack for shipping. Some carriers will require additional payment for packing services. Be sure to check this in advance.

Documents

For some destinations you will need a Carnet de Passages, that entitles the holder to temporarily import a vehicle without the need to pay the appropriate customs duties and taxes. A Carnet de Passages is available from the AA or RAC. In all other cases, where you don't need a carnet, you will need to provide confirmation of insurance and/or ownership.

Oh, and don't forget to check your passport is valid and will not expire during your trip.

Useful Links

Transglobal Express - Air Freight
https://www.transglobalexpress.co.uk/

KLM
http://www.klm.com/