Imagine riding your own motorcycle across the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, the historic roads of the UK, or the iconic curves of the Isle of Man TT.
Shipping your bike from Australia gives you that freedom, allowing you to explore these destinations without the limitations of a rental, enjoying the use of your very own bike.
For riders ready to take on this venture, planning the shipping process carefully is essential.
With over 25 years of expertise, Get Routed simplifies the entire transport process. This guide will walk you through every step, from gathering documents and understanding customs regulations to selecting shipping options that suit your timeline.
Each stage is planned and communicated, ensuring your motorcycle arrives safely to your destination. Follow these steps to plan a smooth, worry-free experience and focus on what matters – the journey itself.
Research the Destination Country’s Requirements
Before booking, it’s essential to understand the customs and quarantine regulations of the country you’re shipping to, as each destination has unique requirements for importing motorcycles.
For example, New Zealand enforces strict biosecurity standards to protect their ecosystems, which means your motorcycle must be thoroughly cleaned before shipment. Failure to meet these standards could result in quarantine delays and additional cleaning fees upon arrival.
In the United Kingdom and Europe, while many import procedures are standardised under the European Union, individual countries may have specific requirements. For example, in the UK, your bike will be covered before Customs Clearance, and third-party insurance is compulsory, with proof required as part of the customs process.
For Spain, similar regulations apply. Spain requires your bike to be covered before Customs Clearance, and third-party insurance is compulsory, with proof needed as part of the Customs Clearance process.
Shipping to the Isle of Man, especially during events like the TT races, requires specific planning due to high demand. Get Routed offers packages that include bike shipping, ferry crossings, and accommodation, but it’s crucial to book early and ensure all requirements are met.
By researching and preparing for the specific requirements of your destination, you can ensure a seamless shipping experience.
Gather Necessary Documentation
To ensure a smooth shipping process, it’s essential to gather all required documentation in advance. Having these documents ready will help you avoid delays and streamline customs and clearance procedures:
- Proof of Ownership: You’ll need your motorcycle’s title or registration document to confirm legal ownership.
- Passport: Make sure your passport is valid and up-to-date for entry into the destination country.
- Insurance: Certain destinations, like the UK and Europe and Spain, require proof of third-party insurance coverage before Customs Clearance. Ensure you have adequate coverage that meets the destination’s requirements.
Note: Since insurance regulations can change, we recommend contacting Get Routed’s insurance broker, Bernie Ryan, for the most up-to-date guidance on coverage requirements and compliance. You can also reach out to Get Routed directly for further assistance.
Booking Your Shipping Date
Once you’ve done your research and have the necessary paperwork, it’s time to book your shipping date with Get Routed.
The booking process is straightforward but requires some planning ahead of time, especially since space can be limited and shipments are often scheduled months in advance.
- Check Availability: Contact Get Routed to confirm available shipment dates for your destination. Given the popularity of these shipping routes, it’s wise to book well in advance to secure your spot.
- Reservation Form: Complete the specific reservation form for your destination, detailing your motorcycle’s make, model, and any specific shipping requirements.
Submit this form with your deposit to secure your booking. For more details about shipping dates and availability for 2025 and 2026, access the Get Routed bookings and forms page.
- Align Dates with Travel Plans: Ensure your shipping dates align with your own travel schedule. Avoid mismatches that could lead to additional storage fees or delays.
Filling Out the Reservation Form
The shipping forms capture all key details about your motorcycle, including its make, model, and any custom modifications. These help us ensure your bike is handled correctly throughout the shipping process.
It’s important to be accurate and thorough with this information, as any discrepancies could affect the ease and timing of customs clearance upon arrival. In addition to bike specifics, the reservation form also asks for preferred shipping dates and destinations.
Deposit and Payment Terms
Get Routed requires a deposit to secure your booking, which is standard for international shipping services.
This deposit guarantees your spot in a specific shipment, especially valuable during peak seasons or for high-demand events like the Isle of Man TT.
The deposit confirms your reservation, while the remaining balance is typically due closer to the shipping date. For high-demand events and busy shipping periods, paying the deposit early can make all the difference in securing your preferred shipment timing.
Payment terms, including accepted payment methods and due dates for final balances, can be reviewed on Get Routed’s Terms & Conditions page.
For any specific questions or alternative payment arrangements, reaching out to the Get Routed team directly will provide clarity on the process.
Booking Confirmation and Next Steps
After submitting your reservation form and deposit, Get Routed will send a booking confirmation outlining the next steps and preparing you for the shipping date.
This confirmation usually includes essential information about pre-shipping preparations, such as any required cleaning, insurance confirmations, and guidance on packing or covering your bike for the journey.
The Get Routed team will keep you updated as the shipping date approaches, providing instructions on where to drop off your bike or any specific timing requirements.
In the weeks leading up to your departure, staying in communication with Get Routed will help ensure all paperwork and preparatory steps are on track.
Should you have any questions, you can always contact us through the Contact Us page, or call us on +61 3 5625 9080 or +61 412 689 849.
