Shipping a motorcycle to Europe from the USA

*Updated on 4/25/2025
If you are planning a move to Europe and want to bring your Harley, Honda, Yamaha, or another beloved bike along, SDC International Shipping is here to help. With motorcycles, scooters, and ATVs growing increasingly popular across Europe, shipping your motorcycle overseas is a smart way to maintain your mobility and style abroad. Bringing your motorcycle with you not only allows you to explore your new environment with freedom but also preserves the personal attachment many owners feel toward their bike. Whether you’re relocating permanently or just planning a long-term stay, your ride deserves to make the journey with you.

Your Shipping Options: Air Freight vs. Ocean Freight

At SDC International Shipping, we tailor the transport of your motorcycle to your preferences and needs, offering both air freight and ocean freight solutions. Our logistics specialists help you choose the best route depending on your timeline, budget, and desired level of protection for your vehicle. From careful planning to precise execution, we ensure your motorcycle reaches its European destination in optimal condition.

Air Freight

Shipping your motorcycle by air freight is the fastest method, ensuring swift and secure delivery. Perfect for high-value bikes or urgent shipments, air freight provides reliability and peace of mind. This method is commonly chosen for luxury or vintage motorcycles that need minimal handling time and optimal protection. Despite being costlier, it offers unmatched speed and reduced risk of damage due to minimal transfers.

Ocean Freight

Ocean freight remains a popular, cost-effective method for shipping motorcycles overseas. Although transit times vary based on the port of destination, sea transport offers excellent value without compromising safety. SDC International Shipping coordinates all logistics to ensure secure container placement, tracking, and timely arrival. With this method, customers often enjoy greater flexibility and the ability to consolidate household items with the motorcycle.

Typical ocean freight destinations include Rotterdam, Bremerhaven, Antwerp, Thamesport, and more. Our international network ensures your motorcycle is routed through the most efficient and secure ports.

Shipment Methods: Roll-on/Roll-off and Container Shipping

You can choose between:

• Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro): Your motorcycle is driven onto the ship in the USA and driven off at your destination port in Europe. This method is ideal for temporary relocations or seasonal riding trips. Ro-Ro is straightforward and widely available for standard-sized vehicles, and it’s particularly suitable for customers who do not require the transport of household items alongside their bike.
• Container Shipping: Choose either a 20-foot or 40-foot container. A Full Container Load (FCL) gives you the option to ship household goods alongside your bike. If you’re only shipping the motorcycle, it will be securely packed with other cargo. This method provides added protection against environmental factors and allows for flexible scheduling. It’s perfect for those who want their belongings shipped together.

Learn more about our Roll-on/Roll-off vs. Container Shipping options

Crating Services for Motorcycles

Crating your motorcycle adds an extra layer of protection during transit. SDC International Shipping offers professional crating services for both air and ocean shipments. Our team adheres to international wood treatment standards to comply with customs regulations in European countries.

Crating is highly recommended for classic, vintage, and premium motorcycles. We tailor each crate to the dimensions and needs of your bike, ensuring maximum stability and safeguarding against external pressure or contact with other cargo. Additionally, we help navigate the specific crating regulations of different European countries to avoid complications at customs.

Understanding Motorcycle Shipping Costs

Several factors influence the cost of shipping a motorcycle to Europe:

• Size and weight of the motorcycle
• Chosen shipment method (air or ocean)
• Distance between ports and final destination
• Additional services like door-to-door delivery

Ocean freight typically offers more affordable rates for motorcycles weighing over 100 kg. Get a personalized shipping quote by filling out our online form. Our specialists provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees and offer guidance on cost-saving measures such as shared container space or flexible scheduling.

We also break down optional add-ons like insurance, storage, and custom crating, so you can make informed decisions based on your needs and budget.

Customs Clearance and Documentation

To clear your motorcycle through customs in Europe, you’ll need:

• Original title deed
• Bill of sale or purchase invoice
• Proof of ownership (especially if owned for less than six months)
• Insurance documents (in some cases)
• Valid identification
• Proof of U.S. residency

In many cases, if you have owned your motorcycle for at least six months before your move, you may qualify for duty-free entry. Our customs specialists ensure all necessary paperwork is properly managed to avoid delays.

Our team stays updated on the latest customs policies in each European country to ensure a seamless clearance process. We also advise on VAT and import tax considerations, helping you understand how to maintain compliance while minimizing costs.

Learn more about international customs regulations

Motorcycle Compliance and Conversion in Europe

Upon arrival, motorcycles must meet EU registration standards. This often requires:

• Converting the speedometer from MPH to KPH
• Modifying exhaust systems
• Updating lighting to EU standards

Some older motorcycles (typically 25 years or older) may not be eligible for all conversions. We recommend consulting with local authorities about conversion requirements before shipping.

We also offer advice and resources for handling post-import inspections and registration, helping you avoid bureaucratic delays. Our specialists will help you prepare documentation for local vehicle compliance agencies and suggest trusted partners for performing necessary modifications.

Why Consider Transit Insurance?

While rare, incidents during transport can happen. SDC International Shipping offers optional but highly recommended transit insurance to protect your motorcycle during shipping, loading, and unloading.

Be sure to inspect your motorcycle thoroughly upon delivery before signing the bill of lading to preserve your insurance rights.

Our insurance options include total loss and all-risk policies, each providing different levels of protection. We explain coverage terms in detail and help you select the right plan based on your bike’s value, travel route, and mode of shipping.

Explore our international moving insurance options

Step-by-Step Motorcycle Shipping Process

1. Transportation to Port: You can deliver your motorcycle yourself or use our pickup service. Our domestic transport team ensures safe handling and coordinates timing to align with the shipping schedule.

2. Shipping and Documentation: After your motorcycle is loaded, we provide a bill of lading and estimated arrival information. You’ll receive updates and have access to support for any questions about your documentation or itinerary.

3. Customs Clearance: Our European agents handle clearance through customs. They work directly with local authorities to streamline paperwork and facilitate inspections.

4. Arrival Notification: You’ll be informed once your bike is ready for pickup or delivery. We’ll verify final destination details and confirm availability for handover or scheduling of home delivery.

5. Delivery: Choose to collect your motorcycle or have it delivered to your new home. Delivery options include curbside drop-off or white-glove service for more complex logistics.

Ship Your Motorcycle with Confidence

SDC International Shipping has years of experience safely shipping motorcycles across the globe. We offer door-to-door services, expert customs support, and competitive pricing.

Start your journey today! Get your free motorcycle shipping quote here.

FAQ – Shipping a Motorcycle to Europe

How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle to Europe? The cost depends on factors such as the size and weight of your bike, your choice of air or sea freight, and whether you require additional services like door-to-door delivery or crating. For the most accurate pricing, request a personalized quote.

Is crating my motorcycle necessary for shipping? While not mandatory for all ocean freight shipments, crating is highly recommended to protect your motorcycle during transit, especially for air freight or high-value bikes.

Do I need insurance when shipping my motorcycle? Insurance is optional but strongly advised. Transit insurance can provide protection against damage, loss, or unforeseen incidents during shipping.

How long does shipping take from the USA to Europe? Air freight can deliver your motorcycle within a few days, while ocean freight typically takes between 3 to 6 weeks depending on the destination port.

What documents are needed to ship a motorcycle overseas? You’ll need your original title deed, proof of ownership, valid ID, and sometimes additional paperwork like an insurance certificate and customs declarations.