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, which is
available from the AA or RAC. In all other cases, 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/
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