Shipping your motorcycle from the USA to France requires attention to detail, experience in international logistics, and a clear understanding of French import procedures. Whether you’re relocating, planning a European tour, or selling motorcycles abroad, a professional shipping service ensures everything runs smoothly.
At All Transport Depot, we specialize in reliable motorcycle shipping from the United States to France. From pickup and packaging to customs clearance and delivery, our team manages every detail to ensure your motorcycle arrives safely and on time.
How much does it cost to ship a motorcycle from USA to France?
The cost of shipping a motorcycle to France from the USA depends on your bike’s size, shipping method, and port logistics.
Shipping Options
RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) – Cost-effective for operational motorcycles
Crated Shipping – Offers added protection for valuable bikes
Container Shipping – Ideal for shipping multiple motorcycles
Air Freight – Fastest but most expensive option
France Import Taxes and Duties
Importing a motorcycle into France generally includes:
Import Duty: Around 6% for motorcycles
VAT (Value Added Tax): 20% based on the motorcycle’s total value
Eco Standards: Motorcycles must comply with EU emission regulations
Required Documents
Before exporting, complete the following:
How long does it take to ship a motorcycle from USA to France?
Shipping duration depends on the chosen shipping method and your U.S. departure port.
General Timeframes
Air Freight: 5–10 business days
Ocean Freight: 3–5 weeks
Customs Clearance and Delivery: 5–10 business days
Factors That May Affect Delivery
Shipping time can vary due to port delays, customs processing, or incomplete documentation. Using a reputable shipping company can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Frequent Sailings
Weekly departures are available from U.S. ports to major French ports such as Le Havre and Marseille.
Estimated Transit Time to Ship a Motorcycle from USA to France
Transit times depend on your departure point in the U.S. and the final destination in France.
Typical Transit Durations
Ocean Freight: 20–30 days
Air Freight: 5–10 days
Local Delivery: 3–7 days after customs release
Port Distance Considerations
East Coast ports like New York and Baltimore typically offer faster transit to France than West Coast ports.
Customs Clearance Process
French customs require proof of ownership, value documentation, and compliance with EU standards. We assist you with all required paperwork to ensure a quick process.
Check RoRo schedules at: https://sallaumlines.com/schedules/
Key Factors Influencing the Cost to Ship a Motorcycle to France from the US
Several variables affect the total cost of shipping your motorcycle to France:
Departure and Arrival Ports
Proximity to major ports like Le Havre and Marseille can influence price and transit speed.
Motorcycle Specifications
Larger motorcycles may require more space and special handling, which increases cost.
Shipping Method
RoRo: Most economical for operational bikes
Crated or Container Shipping: Offers added safety but at a higher price
Air Freight: Best for urgent deliveries
Taxes and Duties
VAT and import duties must be considered in your total shipping cost.
Can I Track My Shipment to France?
Yes, All Transport Depot provides comprehensive tracking for all motorcycle shipments to France.
Tracking Capabilities
Port departure and arrival updates
Live shipment status
Customs progress and final delivery details
Customs Assistance
Our team provides support throughout the customs process in France, helping you avoid delays and meet EU requirements.
Delivery Options
Port Pickup: Le Havre, Marseille
Door Delivery: Available across France and the European Union
Track your bike at: https://alltransportdepot.com/track-shipment/
Do I Need Insurance to Ship a Motorcycle from USA to France?
Although not mandatory, insurance is highly recommended for all international motorcycle shipments.
Available Insurance Options
Marine Insurance: Covers sea freight
All-Risk Coverage: Covers damage, loss, and theft
Declared Value: Set based on your motorcycle’s worth
Why Choose Insurance?
International shipping involves handling, ocean travel, and customs—all of which pose risks. Insurance protects your motorcycle during every step of its journey.
Container Bike Shipping to France
Container shipping is perfect for luxury, classic, or multiple motorcycles.
Benefits Include
Maximum protection from the elements
Ability to ship parts and accessories
Flexible container options (20ft, 40ft)
Professional Crating
We offer custom-built crates to ensure your motorcycle is immobilized and secure throughout the journey.
RoRo Bike Shipping to France
RoRo is the most common and cost-effective way to ship a motorcycle to France.
Advantages of RoRo
Lower shipping costs
Faster loading and unloading
Weekly sailings from major U.S. ports
Preparation Tips
Your motorcycle must be fully operational and contain no more than ¼ tank of fuel.
Importing a Motorcycle from USA to France
Importing a motorcycle into France requires compliance with local laws and EU safety standards.
Vehicle Compliance
Imported motorcycles must meet EU emissions and technical regulations for registration.
Essential Documents
Motorcycle Title
Bill of Sale
Insurance Certificate
Certificate of Conformity (if registering in France)
Modifications May Be Needed
Depending on the bike, headlight positioning, indicators, and exhaust emissions may need adjusting to meet French regulations.
Departure and Arrival Ports for Shipping a Motorcycle to France from the USA
U.S. Departure Ports
New York, NY
Baltimore, MD
Houston, TX
Miami, FL
Los Angeles, CA
France Arrival Ports
Le Havre
Marseille
How Can I Contact French Customs for Motorcycle Import Questions?
For inquiries about importing motorcycles into France, you can reach out to French Customs:
Website: https://douane.gouv.fr
Phone (in France): +33 1 72 40 78 50
Office: Direction Générale des Douanes, Paris, France
Top 5 Most Popular Routes for Shipping Motorcycles from USA to France
New York to Le Havre
Baltimore to Marseille
Houston to Le Havre
Los Angeles to Marseille
Miami to Le Havre
Required Documents to Ship a Motorcycle to France
Ensure smooth shipping and customs clearance with these documents:
Bill of Sale
Proof of ownership and sale price for customs declarations.
Title and Registration
Necessary for both U.S. export and French import processing.
Insurance Certificate
While optional, it is advisable for international shipments.
Emissions Certificate
Required if registering the motorcycle for road use in France.
Top 10 Most Imported Motorcycles in France
Motorcycle enthusiasts in France favor a mix of performance and touring models:
Harley-Davidson Street Glide
Yamaha Tracer 9
BMW R 1250 GS
Ducati Multistrada V4
Honda Africa Twin
Triumph Tiger 900
KTM Adventure 1290
Suzuki V-Strom 650
Indian Chief
Kawasaki Z650
Expert Insights from Fred O, a seasoned professional in the car shipping industry, offering valuable advice and tips to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for transporting vehicles to and from Puerto Rico. Stay informed with Fred O’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field.