Whether it’s your daily rider, a custom build, or a vintage collector’s piece, your motorcycle deserves more than basic protection when it hits the road with a transporter. While shipping a motorcycle through uShip is easy, protecting it properly during transit is key to peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll explain how motorcycle protection works on uShip, the difference between carrier liability and the uShip Protection Plan, and how to choose the right level of coverage for your bike and your budget.
Why Protection Matters for Motorcycle Shipping
Motorcycles are more vulnerable than other vehicles when it comes to shipping. Their open design, intricate parts, and often higher sentimental or monetary value make them uniquely prone to damage, loss, or theft in transit.
Common risks include:
- Scratches or dents during loading/unloading
- Straps failing during transport
- Theft during overnight layovers
- Weather exposure on open trailers
For bikes that are custom-built, vintage, or high-value, these risks carry higher stakes. That’s where additional protection comes in—beyond standard carrier liability.
Carrier Liability vs. uShip Protection Plan
🛡️ Carrier Liability (Basic Coverage)
All carriers on uShip include basic liability as part of their service. This may cover incidents caused by the carrier’s negligence (like mishandling or a loading accident), but coverage is typically capped at $0.60 per pound.
Example: A 500 lb motorcycle = $300 of coverage — regardless of actual value.
Carrier liability does not cover:
- Theft
- Weather-related damage
- Acts of God (floods, storms, etc.)
- Damage not proven to be the carrier’s fault
uShip Protection Plan (Optional Add-On)
The uShip Protection Plan offers all-risk third-party protection for your shipment. It goes beyond basic liability and protects against loss or damage, regardless of fault.
Key Benefits:
- Covers collision, loss, theft, and weather damage
- Based on the declared value of your motorcycle
- Affordable rates (typically 0.7%–1% of the item’s value)
- Easy online case process with dedicated support
- Submit cases up to 7 business days after delivery
Example: Protecting a $5,000 bike might cost around $35 at checkout.
You’ll see the option to add protection when booking your shipment. Just enter your motorcycle’s fair market value to get a custom rate.
Verifying Carrier Coverage (Before You Book)
If you’re relying on carrier liability:
- Ask for the carrier’s Certificate of Insurance
- Confirm policy limits, exclusions, and provider contact info
- Use the SAFER database (via the DOT number) to verify licensing and claims history
- Always review carrier reviews and claims responsiveness on uShip before booking
Can I Use My Motorcycle Insurance Policy?
In some cases, yes. Your personal motorcycle policy may include transit coverage, but it often comes with restrictions.
Check with your provider and ask:
- Is shipping damage covered?
- Are third-party transporters included?
- Is a temporary rider available for the trip?
Pro tip: Get confirmation in writing, and compare your policy limits to the uShip Protection Plan for full clarity.
Tips for Choosing the Right Coverage
- Know Your Bike’s Value
Use receipts, appraisals, or market tools to declare an accurate replacement value. - Consider Your Route & Distance
Long hauls or rural drop-offs can increase risk. Open trailers expose bikes to more elements. - Read the Fine Print
Understand coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and how to file a claim before you book. - Check Carrier History
Look for transporters with clean claims records and strong customer reviews on uShip.
How to File a Protection Case with uShip
If you purchased the uShip Protection Plan and something goes wrong:
- Log into your uShip account
- Navigate to the completed shipment
- Select “File a Case”
- Submit:
- Photos (before and after)
- Bill of Lading (signed)
- Proof of value (receipt or appraisal)
- Repair estimate or documentation
Our protection team will respond within 1 business day and support you through the process. Most cases are resolved within 7 business days of approval.
Real Stories: How Protection Helps
✅ Covered:
A customer shipped a $12,000 Harley across state lines. During transit, a loose strap scratched the fuel tank. With the uShip Protection Plan, the claim was submitted online, processed quickly, and $1,200 in repairs was reimbursed within a week.
❌ Not Covered:
Another customer declined protection and relied solely on carrier liability. After minor damage during loading, the carrier denied fault, and the $300 liability cap didn’t come close to the $1,500 in actual repair costs. No additional coverage meant paying out-of-pocket.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle shipping doesn’t have to be risky, but relying on basic liability alone may leave you underprotected. The uShip Protection Plan offers affordable, all-risk protection based on your bike’s value and takes the stress out of the unexpected.
Whether your motorcycle is worth $3,000 or $30,000, you can choose the right level of protection and ship with more confidence.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Is insurance included with motorcycle shipping on uShip?
Carriers include basic liability, but coverage is limited. You can add optional protection through the uShip Protection Plan at checkout for broader protection.
How much does motorcycle protection cost on uShip?
Rates are based on your declared value. Expect to pay around 0.7%–1% of the bike’s value. A $10,000 motorcycle would cost about $70–$100 to protect.
What does uShip’s Protection Plan cover?
It covers loss, damage, collision, theft, and weather-related incidents during transit. Certain items (like self-driven vehicles or live animals) are excluded.
Can I use my own insurance instead?
Possibly. Contact your motorcycle insurer to ask about transport coverage or a temporary rider.
What happens if my bike is damaged in transit?
File a case via your uShip account within 7 business days. Submit documentation, and our support team will guide you through the resolution process.
