How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Transport

1. Clean Your Motorcycle Before Pickup

A clean motorcycle makes it easier to document the bike's current condition at pickup. Wash the body, wheels, and chrome so that any existing scratches, dents, or imperfections are visible in the pre-transport photos. This protects both you and the transport company by establishing a clear baseline condition. You don't need a full detail — a basic wash is enough. Our enclosed motorcycle transport service includes full photo documentation at pickup.

2. Document the Current Condition

Before your motorcycle is picked up, take your own photos from multiple angles — both sides, front, rear, tank, fenders, wheels, and any existing damage. Include close-ups of scratches, dents, or wear. Save these photos with timestamps. Your transport company will also take documentation photos, but having your own set gives you peace of mind and a personal record. You can later use our Track My Bike feature to check on your transport status.

3. Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure

Make sure your motorcycle has adequate tire pressure for loading and unloading. Flat or low tires make it harder to roll the bike on and off the van safely. Check that there are no active fluid leaks — oil, coolant, or fuel. If your bike has a known leak, let your transport company know in advance so they can prepare accordingly. If your motorcycle doesn't run at all, check out our non-running motorcycle transport service.

4. Remove or Secure Loose Accessories

Remove saddlebags, tank bags, phone mounts, GPS units, loose mirrors, and any aftermarket accessories that could shift or fall during transport. If something can't be removed, make sure it's tightly secured. Items left in saddlebags can shift and scratch paint or crack plastics during transit — even in enclosed transport where the ride is smooth.

5. Disable the Alarm System

If your motorcycle has an aftermarket alarm or motion sensor, disable it before pickup. Alarms can be triggered during loading, securing, and transport — which drains the battery and creates unnecessary complications. If you're unsure how to disable it, leave the key fob with the transport driver or provide instructions.

6. Leave About a Quarter Tank of Fuel

Don't fill the tank completely — a full tank adds unnecessary weight and increases the risk of fuel spillage if the bike shifts. A quarter tank is ideal. It's enough fuel to start and move the motorcycle during loading and unloading, but not so much that it creates a hazard or adds excessive weight to the transport.

7. Provide Keys and Special Instructions

Make sure your transport company has the ignition key (or a spare). If your motorcycle has a steering lock, fork lock, disc lock, or kill switch, provide clear instructions on how to operate them. The easier it is for the driver to safely move your motorcycle, the smoother the pickup and delivery will go. Include any special instructions when you book your motorcycle transport.

8. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Addresses

Double-check that the pickup and delivery addresses are correct and accessible. If the pickup is at a private residence, make sure there's enough space for the transport van to park and load safely. If it's at a dealership or storage facility, confirm business hours and any gate codes or access requirements with your transport company in advance. We serve 27 cities across the Charlotte metro area.

9. What to Expect on Pickup Day

On pickup day, your transport driver will arrive within the scheduled window, inspect the motorcycle with you, take condition photos, and carefully load the bike into the enclosed van using soft straps and wheel chocks. The entire process typically takes 15–20 minutes. You'll receive confirmation once the motorcycle is secured and in transit. Buying from a private seller? We coordinate directly with them for pickup.

10. What NOT to Do Before Transport

Don't leave personal items strapped to the motorcycle. Don't overfill the fuel tank. Don't forget to mention existing damage or mechanical issues. Don't leave the alarm armed. And don't stress — professional enclosed transport is the safest way to move a motorcycle without riding it. Ready to get started? Request a free quote today.

Frequently Asked Questions