2 Bikes Vancouver, B.C.,Canada to Sidney, Australia
 

I just received a quote for transport for my '05 Road King and Jean's Honda Shadow ACE 750cc from HOG Overseas Motorcycle Shipping dept., which is Claridon, based in UK, but I think Allied Van Lines handles the work in Canada.
Vancouver to Sydney, Australia return per bike $588.00 CDN.

Includes customs clearance in country of destination.

Does not include carnets, custom examination,duties, taxes, bond fees,or any other local charges. Does not include storage fees which may incur due to a delay in customs caused by an examination, or additional checks.

This cost is for standard bikes only.

Quote valid for 3 months only.

Bike automatically insurred up to a maximum of $20,000.00US. For additional transit insurance contact us.

Transit time would be approx. 35 days prot to port, via air but please allow up to 2 weeks for customs clearance, and additional time for onward delivery and also allow the same time minimum for return journey.

This rate applies for standard bikes only. Notify of any customizations.

Not responsible for delays regarding custom and excise examinations or inspections, port congestion, and terrorism has contributed to more inspections and clearances needed.



I will admit that the cost is extremely reasonable, especially since they will go by air, but I think the time frame is somewhat lengthy. I mean, 35 days port to port, + 14 days for inspection, + X for onward delivery??
That's about 2 months for shipping by air.

Does anyone know anything about this? I've sent the same query to Claridon, so hope to have an answer within a couple of days.

Heard back from Claridon. Quote is for sea shipping, NOT air. Now it makes sense.

Shipping to Oz
 

Sounds extremely reasonable, in fact when looking at the quote the cost, contract language and long shipping duration seem consistent with shipping by sea, and I was a bit surprised to see it states by air. You may want to double check this with them and check the small print, sometimes it allows them alternative shipping options at their discretion.

BTW, I have bought and sold a vehicle in Oz previously and it is very straightforward but at those shipping costs I can see why you have chosen to ship your own bike rather than buying and selling.

Not sure when you are coming through Vancouver, but feel free to drop me a line to grab a beer or to sort out any logistics.

Hey there MountainMan. I guess we posted at the same time. It's by sea, not air. And we'll let you know when we're arriving for beers.:biggrin:

Please be sure to post the final results of this shipment on the Shipping section - link on left!

thanks! :)

You must be careful of sea port charges, they multiply alarmingly and are for a vast "array" of services. Air 'seems' more expensive, but is usually about the same cost in the end. I have done both several times.
Shipping into Oz your bikes must be spotlessly clean, or you will be charged for quarentine and cleaning, and storage, etc...
SeaPorts do not care if shipments sit around, they have lots of room, and charge for it.
Airports want to move goods in and out quickly and are better set up for customs, vehicle importation, etc.
By sea you must have a good crate, by air you can ship without crating.
How long are you going for?
I know rentals are not as nice as riding your own bikes, but sometimes it is more economical.
Cheers

We haven't set a definite date for the trip. I'm just beginning to get the information gathered. The above quote is for sea. I've checked on carnets (724CDN each) and it appears that I'll have to get a guarantee for about 6-7000CDN for the bikes, then the shipping will be about 2-3000 each, plus our airfares, plus international insurance at about 150/mo for 6 months, so the costs are adding up. Still checking on available shipping by air.
I'm also checking on a UK trip. It looks like a bit cheaper for there. We'll see.