At a glance:
- Shipping your motorcycle to New Zealand involves a seamless process, including 4 days of pre-shipping preparation to ensure everything is in order.
- Transit time typically ranges from 12–20 days, depending on schedules and conditions, with bikes securely cradled for maximum safety.
- Custom cradles ensure your motorcycle remains stable and protected, reducing risks during the journey.
New Zealand is a motorcyclist’s dream. Its winding roads, towering mountains, and breathtaking coastlines create the ultimate playground for riders seeking adventure. From the scenic Milford Sound to the rugged beauty of the South Island, there’s no better way to explore this land than on your own bike.
But how long does it take to ship your motorcycle to New Zealand from Australia? That’s a question many riders ask when planning their trips. The answer lies in two main stages: pre-shipping activities, which typically take about 4 days, and shipping time, which ranges between 12 and 20 days, depending on various factors.
In this article, we’ll break down the timeline, guide you through the shipping process and share important tips to ensure your bike arrives safely and on time.
Pre-Shipping Activities Timeline: 4 Days
Once you’ve dropped off your bike at one of Get Routed’s depots in Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane, the real work begins. Over the next four days, your motorcycle undergoes a meticulous preparation process to ensure it’s ready for the journey to New Zealand. This stage is crucial for the safety and efficiency of the entire shipping process.
At the heart of Get Routed’s process is our custom cradle system, designed to secure your motorcycle without the need for traditional crating. Here’s what usually happens during this four-day timeline:
- Custom Cradle Setup: Each motorcycle is carefully assessed and placed in a tailored cradle that matches its size and structure. This system prevents movement during transit, significantly reducing the risk of damage.
- Loading into the Shipping Container: Once secured in the cradle, your bike is forklifted into the shipping container. The cradle is then tech-screwed into the container floor by experienced staff or contractors, ensuring it remains stable throughout the journey.
- Safety Inspections: Before the container is sealed, a final inspection is conducted to confirm that all bikes are properly secured and meet shipping regulations.
During these four days, our team handles every detail with care and precision. From ensuring that the cradles are properly aligned to conducting safety checks, this process ensures your bike is not only secure but also compliant with shipping standards.
Shipping Activities Timeline: 12–20 Days
Once your motorcycle is safely loaded into the shipping container, it embarks on its journey to New Zealand. The actual shipping time from Australia to New Zealand typically ranges from 12 to 20 days.
The duration depends on factors such as shipping schedules, port handling, and weather conditions. During this time, the motorcycles remain securely cradled, ensuring minimal vibrations and eliminating the risk of shifting or damage.
Get Routed collaborates with reliable shipping companies that specialise in motorcycle transport and have been working with us for a long time.
Important Considerations and Disclaimers
When planning to ship your motorcycle to New Zealand, it’s essential to be aware of factors that might impact your shipping experience. While we strive to provide a seamless process, there are some factors every rider should consider.
Possible Delays: Although we ensure timely container loading and work with reliable shipping partners, external factors like weather conditions, port congestion, and labour disputes may occasionally cause delays.
These are beyond the control of Get Routed but are rare thanks to the company’s extensive experience and well-established processes. Riders should always build flexibility into their travel plans to accommodate such possibilities.
Packing Limitations: To comply with shipping regulations, there are strict guidelines on what can and cannot be included in the shipping container. You are allowed to pack essential riding gear, such as your jacket, pants, helmet, boots, and tools. However, tents, food, and other personal items are prohibited.
Additionally, your bike must be spotlessly clean before shipping to meet New Zealand’s strict biosecurity laws. Failure to comply can result in fines, additional cleaning fees, or delayed release of your bike upon arrival. For a full list of guidelines, refer to our Terms and Conditions.
Insurance: Your Australian motorcycle insurance will not cover your bike while it’s in New Zealand. To ensure proper coverage, riders are strongly encouraged to arrange temporary motorcycle insurance with Get Routed’s trusted insurance broker, Bernie Ryan. Contact Bernie directly at 0405 500 871 or email [email protected] for tailored coverage options.
New Zealand’s winding roads, lush landscapes, and unique culture make it a rider’s paradise. With Get Routed, the hassle of motorcycle shipping is simplified, leaving you free to focus on your journey.
Whether you’re planning to explore the scenic South Island, experience the excitement of the Burt Munro Festival, or take on the BEARS Sound of Thunder event, we’ve got you covered.
Booking is simple. For up-to-date shipping schedules and to secure your spot, visit the New Zealand Shipping page and Booking Forms page. Don’t miss the chance to make your next adventure unforgettable.
