How to Ship a Motorcycle Overseas from the UK

Shipping a motorcycle overseas from the UK is straightforward with the right approach. There are three main methods available:

1. RORO Shipping: Your motorcycle is wheeled onto the vessel and secured on deck. This is the most affordable option for running bikes on major routes. However, not all RORO services accept motorcycles, so availability varies by route.

2. Container Shipping (Crated): Your motorcycle is professionally crated in a wooden frame and loaded into a shared or dedicated shipping container. This offers maximum protection and is available to virtually any destination.

3. Container Shipping (Uncrated): The bike is secured directly inside a container using professional strapping and wheel chocks. Suitable for short-distance or lower-value bikes where crating costs aren't justified.

For a full comparison of methods, see our shipping methods guide.

Motorcycle shipping is generally more affordable than car shipping due to the smaller size and weight:

- RORO (where available): £500–£1,500
• Container (shared, crated): £800–£2,000
• Container (dedicated): £1,500–£4,000

Additional costs to consider:
• Professional crating: £150–£350
• Collection from your address: £100–£300 (distance dependent)
• Destination customs clearance: varies by country
• Destination delivery: varies by location

Crating is strongly recommended for international motorcycle shipments. It protects your bike from scratches, minor impacts, and weather exposure throughout the journey.

Proper preparation is essential for a safe motorcycle shipment:

Mechanical preparation:
• Drain fuel to minimum level (small amount needed if RORO)
• Disconnect the battery (or remove entirely for container shipping)
• Check and fix any fluid leaks — oil, coolant, brake fluid
• Ensure tyres are properly inflated
• Fold in mirrors and remove any loose accessories

Documentation:
• V5C registration document (or V5C/2 for permanent export)
• Proof of ownership
• Valid photo ID
• Commercial invoice (for customs purposes)
• Any existing damage should be documented with dated photographs

Packing:
• Remove all personal items, panniers, and tank bags
• Wrap any chrome or polished surfaces if concerned about minor marks
• Secure any loose components with cable ties or tape

We regularly ship motorcycles from the UK to:

- Europe: Spain, France, Portugal, Italy — popular with riders relocating or touring
• USA & Canada: Classic British bikes (Triumph, Norton, BSA) are in high demand among American collectors. Read our USA import guide for regulations.
• Australia & New Zealand: Growing market for UK-spec motorcycles. See the Australia import guide.
• South Asia: Honda, Yamaha, and Royal Enfield bikes shipped to Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan
• Middle East: UAE and Saudi Arabia for touring and adventure bikes

Each destination has specific import regulations for motorcycles, including emission standards, age restrictions, and homologation requirements. Ship Cars RoRo handles all documentation and customs procedures for every destination.

All motorcycle shipments through Ship Cars RoRo include marine transit insurance as standard. For high-value or classic motorcycles, we recommend enhanced coverage based on the agreed value of the bike.

Our motorcycle shipping service includes:
• Professional crating by experienced motorcycle handlers
• Marine transit insurance
• Full customs documentation and export processing
• Destination port handling coordination
• Door-to-port or door-to-door service options
• Real-time shipment tracking and updates

Whether you're shipping a daily commuter, a touring adventure bike, or a rare classic, Ship Cars RoRo has the expertise and network to deliver your motorcycle safely anywhere in the world. Get a free motorcycle shipping quote. For cars on the same routes, see our UK car shipping costs guide.

Before any international shipment, vehicles need to reach the loading port — and many customers ask us to handle the UK leg too. Our recovery and transport network covers every postcode, 24 hours a day.

Start with the main hubs: Car Recovery UK, Vehicle Recovery UK, 24/7 Breakdown Recovery and Nationwide Vehicle Transportation.

City coverage includes London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Glasgow, Sheffield and Bristol.

Pre-book a port run on a flatbed transporter from Southampton, Portsmouth, Liverpool or Felixstowe via Ipswich, or call 24/7 for breakdown recovery in London, Birmingham or Manchester.