Specialist Motorcycle Transport Services Across the UK
MotorMoves marketplace enables bike owners to receive competitive quotes from experienced handlers and motorcycle transport companies, ensuring motorcycles receive appropriate care throughout their delivery journey. Whether transporting a treasured classic motorcycle or a modern sports bike, professional motorcycle collection and delivery eliminates worry while protecting your investment. MotorMoves' verified motorcycle transport providers understand these specialised requirements and are here to assist you.
Motorcycle transport requires specialist knowledge and equipment that differs significantly from car transport. Two-wheeled vehicles present unique challenges during loading, securing, and transit that demand experienced handlers with appropriate gear. Professional motorcycle transport services protect your bike from damage while eliminating the risks and fatigue of long-distance riding.
The UK motorcycle community encompasses enthusiasts with varied machines—from everyday commuter bikes to rare vintage motorcycles worth tens of thousands of pounds. Each category requires tailored handling approaches. Modern sports bikes with delicate fairings need careful protection, while heavyweight touring machines require robust securing equipment. Vintage motorcycles often have specific requirements around oil leaks, fragile chrome, and period-correct components.
Professional motorcycle transporters use purpose-built equipment including wheel chocks, soft straps, and paddock stands to secure bikes safely. Enclosed transport vehicles protect motorcycles from weather, road debris, and curious onlookers, essential for valuable machines. Many transporters specialise exclusively in motorcycles, developing expertise that general vehicle carriers cannot match.
Common scenarios requiring motorcycle transport include purchasing bikes from distant sellers, attending track days and race meetings, moving for relocation, and seasonal storage arrangements. Non-runner motorcycle collections are particularly common, where bikes that won't start or have mechanical issues need professional recovery. Motorcycle recovery services handle breakdowns, accidents, and bikes that need transporting to garages for repair. Customer new purchase motorcycle delivery has grown significantly with the rise of online marketplaces—more buyers than ever need reliable transport to collect purchases from dealerships or private sellers across the country.
How Can I Transport My Motorcycle?
There are several professional methods for transporting motorcycles, each suited to different needs and budgets. Here's a guide to the main motorcycle transport options available in the UK.
Professional van transport is widely regarded as the most secure and popular method for moving motorbikes across the UK. This service utilizes fully enclosed panel vans, such as the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit, providing a controlled environment protected from rain, road salt, and prying eyes.
The method involves loading via heavy-duty folding ramps or hydraulic tail-lifts. Inside, front-wheel chocks are bolted to the van floor to keep the bike upright, while four-point ratchet straps with "soft loops" prevent metal-on-metal scratching.
Best for: High-value superbikes and private sales where discretion and security are paramount. Providers typically carry specific "Goods in Transit" insurance.
Open motorcycle trailer transport is a versatile and cost-effective solution often used for local moves and enthusiast events. These trailers feature integrated rail systems and wheel channels that prevent lateral tire sliding, with much shallower ramp angles than vans for safer loading.
Equipment typically includes galvanized steel chassis, dedicated front-wheel clamps, and multiple lashing points. Some advanced "ground-loading" models lower the entire trailer bed to floor level via hydraulics, eliminating ramps entirely.
Best for: Track day enthusiasts, off-road riders moving dirt bikes, and recovery trips to local garages. Light motorcycle trailers often require no special license to tow.
Enclosed motorcycle trailer transport offers a premium "pod" experience, combining towing flexibility with maximum protection. These custom-built "box" or "teardrop" units with aerodynamic fiberglass or aluminum shells provide a "white-glove" environment while keeping the towing vehicle free for passengers.
Inside, equipment often exceeds standard vans—built-in tool cabinetry, integrated LED lighting, and "TyreFix" systems that secure bikes by the wheels to avoid compressing sensitive electronic suspension.
Best for: Concours-level show bikes, international transport, high-end auctions, and racers needing a secure paddock base.
Hitch-mounted motorcycle carriers (towbar racks) are a compact alternative to trailers, designed to carry a single motorcycle transversely across the rear of a vehicle. Highly favored by motorhome owners and 4x4 enthusiasts who want to carry a bike without towing complexities.
The equipment consists of heavy-duty steel or aluminum racks that slot into a towbar or attach directly to the chassis, with integrated ramps and "goalpost" or "T-bar" securing systems that stabilize the bike from above.
Best for: Lighter machines such as enduro bikes, trials bikes, and scooters. Consider your vehicle's "nose weight" or S-value when calculating capacity.
Multi-bike professional transporters are the heavy lifters of the industry, capable of moving between 6 and 20 motorcycles simultaneously. This "hub-and-spoke" logistics method consolidates bikes from various locations onto a single large vehicle for long-haul routes, offering significantly lower cost per bike through economies of scale.
The equipment involves specialized HGVs or large "Luton" vans fitted with multi-level racking systems. Each bike is placed in a standardized cradle and secured with heavy-duty webbing. These vehicles often feature massive hydraulic tail-lifts capable of carrying two large bikes at once.
Best for: The most affordable option for long-distance or international transport. Used by manufacturers for dealership stock replenishment, auction houses like BCA or Copart, and organized "fly-and-ride" tours.
How Much Does Motorcycle Transport Cost?
UK motorcycle transport costs vary by distance, but expect roughly £55-£190 for shorter trips and £265-£425 for long hauls, with some providers offering prices around £0.55 per mile. Factors like location, bike size, and service type significantly impact the final quote.
Note: For short distances, time matters more than mileage. Per-mile rates typically decrease for longer journeys.
Distance
Longer journeys cost more, but per-mile rates often decrease with distance.
Location
Pick-up/delivery in major cities like London can affect costs due to congestion and access.
Bike Size & Type
Larger bikes or those needing specific handling cost more to transport.
Service Type
Enclosed, insured, and tracked services cost more than basic open transport.
Below are approximate costs for popular UK motorcycle transport routes. Actual prices may vary based on provider availability, bike type, and service level.
| Route | Miles | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| London to Manchester | 200 | £95 - £140 |
| Liverpool to Glasgow | 220 | £100 - £155 |
| Birmingham to Newcastle | 205 | £95 - £145 |
| Torquay to Sheffield | 250 | £120 - £175 |
| Leeds to Swansea | 230 | £105 - £165 |
| Bristol to Edinburgh | 380 | £185 - £280 |
| London to Edinburgh | 400 | £195 - £295 |
| Southampton to Aberdeen | 530 | £265 - £385 |
| Plymouth to Inverness | 620 | £310 - £425 |
| London to Cornwall | 280 | £130 - £195 |
Prices shown are estimates for standard motorcycle transport. Enclosed transport, same-day delivery, or specialist handling for high-value bikes will be higher. Get free quotes to compare actual prices.
What Insurance Will My Motorcycle Have in Transport?
Transporting motorcycles in the UK requires a specialized insurance stack due to the high value and low weight of the cargo, which can make standard freight policies insufficient. Legally, any professional carrier must hold Motor Trade Road Risk insurance with "Hire and Reward" cover to operate on public roads while transporting vehicles. For the protection of the motorcycle itself, Goods in Transit (GIT) insurance is the industry standard; however, owners should ensure the carrier has a specific "Bikes in Transit" endorsement. This is crucial because many carriers operate under RHA (Road Haulage Association) Conditions, which often limit liability based on weight (e.g., £1,300 per tonne)—a calculation that would drastically undervalue a lightweight performance bike. Consequently, reputable motorcycle transporters carry "all risks" cover with limits typically ranging from £50,000 to £250,000 per bike. Additionally, Public Liability insurance (usually £2m–£5m) is necessary to cover third-party damage or injury during the loading and unloading process, while Employers' Liability remains a legal requirement for companies with staff. For those moving bikes to the continent, CMR insurance is required for road transit through Europe, and Marine Transit insurance is advised for any sea crossings to cover "General Average" risks.
| Feature | Car | Motorcycle |
|---|---|---|
| GIT Basis | Weight-based (RHA) | "Per Bike" cover preferred |
| Loading Risk | Drive-on ramps | Topple risk, needs Public Liability |
| International | CMR / Marine | CMR / Marine |
| Secondary | Owner's Comprehensive | Often third-party only |
Always verify your transport provider's insurance coverage before booking. For high-value motorcycles, request proof of specific "Bikes in Transit" or "all risks" cover with appropriate limits.
Why Choose Us for Motorcycle Transport?
Specialist Equipment
Providers use dedicated motorcycle securing systems, wheel chocks, and soft ties for safe transport.
Fully Insured
All verified providers carry goods in transit insurance covering your motorcycle during transport.
Flexible Collection
Choose your collection and delivery dates. Express same-day options available.
Motorcycles We Transport
Sports Bikes
Superbikes, supersports, and performance motorcycles
Cruisers & Tourers
Harley-Davidsons, touring bikes, and cruisers
Classic Motorcycles
Vintage and classic bikes handled with care
Adventure Bikes
Adventure and dual-sport motorcycles
Scooters & Mopeds
Vespas, scooters, and lightweight mopeds
Electric Motorcycles
Modern electric bikes and e-scooters
Frequently Asked Questions
Motorcycle transport in the UK typically costs £55-£190 for short distances (under 200 miles) and £150-£350 for cross-country delivery. Prices depend on bike type, distance, and transport method. Multiple bike discounts are often available.
Professional motorcycle transporters use specialized wheel chocks, ratchet straps, and soft ties to secure bikes. Most use enclosed vans or trailers with dedicated motorcycle securing systems to prevent any movement during transit.
Yes, we transport all two-wheeled vehicles including scooters, mopeds, Vespas, and electric bikes. Just specify the vehicle type and condition when creating your listing for accurate quotes.
All verified providers carry goods in transit insurance covering motorcycles during transport. Coverage typically ranges from £10,000 to £100,000 depending on the provider. Always check coverage limits for high-value bikes.