So you just bought your dream bike on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or from a seller out in Jersey, Pennsylvania, or even across the country. Congrats.
Now comes the annoying part: How do you actually get it home without a headache?
If the seller can’t deliver and you don’t have a trailer or pickup truck ready to go, you’ve got a few solid options—some better than others.
Here’s what you need to know.
🚚 Option 1: Rent a U-Haul or Trailer
This seems like the obvious choice. U-Haul and other truck rental companies offer motorcycle trailers or vans you can rent for a day.
✅ Pros:
- You control the timing.
- It can be relatively cheap if you’re doing a local pickup.
❌ Cons:
- You need the right vehicle with a hitch.
- You’re responsible for tying down the bike correctly—which many people mess up.
- If the seller doesn’t help you load it, you’re on your own.
And yes, if you drop it, that’s 100% your problem.
🛻 Option 2: Ask a Friend with a Truck
A tale as old as time. Got a friend with a truck and some ratchet straps? Perfect.
✅ Pros:
- Could be free (if you’ve got a good friend).
- Easier to coordinate than a rental.
❌ Cons:
- Your friend’s not a motorcycle transport specialist.
- No insurance coverage if things go wrong.
- Awkward if you mess up their truck bed.
🚛 Option 3: Hire a Motorcycle Towing or Transport Service
If you want to avoid damage, stress, or wasting an entire day—this is the move. Professional motorcycle transporters come with ramps, wheel chocks, soft straps, and actual experience moving motorcycles of all kinds.
✅ Pros:
- Done by pros who tow bikes daily.
- Insured, fast, and hands-off.
- Great for local and long-distance deliveries.
❌ Cons:
- Costs a bit more, but often worth it for peace of mind.
🗽 NYC-Specific Tips
- Loading zones are tight. If you’re having a bike delivered in NYC, make sure there’s a safe place to park and unload.
- Walk-ups are real. If the delivery is going to a building without a garage or driveway, be prepared to roll it a block or two.
- Some sellers flake. Always confirm the seller’s schedule and make sure the title and keys are ready before your transporter shows up.
Final Thought: You Already Got the Bike. Don’t Ruin It Getting It Home.
If you’re picking up or receiving a motorcycle anywhere in NYC, or even from New Jersey, Long Island, or upstate—MAD Transpo NYC can handle it.
We offer:
- 🚛 Flatbed towing for motorcycles
- 🗺️ Local + out-of-state transport
- 🛠️ Fully insured service by riders, for riders
📞 Call or text 929-265-0526
💬 Or get a quote online here
We’ll get your new bike home safely—no stress, no scratches, no surprises.