Motorcycle Shipping Insurance and Tie-Downs: What to Confirm Before Pickup

Ask how the bike will be restrained

A stable motorcycle normally needs a wheel chock or equivalent support plus soft restraints that control movement without damaging the finish. Ask whether the suspension will be compressed, whether the bike remains upright, and what protects the strap contact points.

Photograph the securement at pickup if the carrier permits it. If the motorcycle has a sidecar, lowered suspension, carbon parts, unusual bars, or a fragile fairing, the method should be designed around those features rather than a standard bike checklist.

Read the insurance terms, not just the limit

Request the carrier’s current cargo insurance information and ask what is covered during loading, transit, storage, and unloading. Check the policy limit against the motorcycle’s actual value and ask whether restored, modified, or custom components need separate documentation.

A broker may arrange the move, but the carrier usually controls the physical cargo policy. Identify the legal carrier, the claims contact, and the records you will need if a loss occurs. A large headline limit is not useful if the policy excludes the relevant cause or item.

Build an evidence packet

Use date-stamped photographs, a written condition report, receipts for major work, appraisal records when available, and a list of included accessories. Make sure the pickup and delivery documents identify the motorcycle clearly.

At delivery, note damage before signing and keep the original files. Avoid repairing or discarding damaged parts until the insurer has had a reasonable opportunity to inspect them, unless safety requires immediate action.

• Record VIN or identifying details on the shipment file
• Photograph both sides of every strap contact area
• Keep communications in writing when the plan changes