If you need to ship your bicycle anywhere in Canada, you can do it with ease, as there are options to ship it fully assembled.
Shipping items in Canada comes with some challenges such as shipping routes spanning long distances, which can lead to higher transportation costs and longer delivery times.
Top Move will connect you with a network of suitable transporters for the job, and help you save money by finding the most competitive rates.
There are a handful of options to ship your bicycle in Canada. Using a dedicated transport service is often the best way to go. You can also ship it via aeroplane, but the process usually isn’t as simple.
One bonus of air transportation is that you can check your bike as an oversized item when you fly, then you have it available to you immediately in your new location. The downside is that you have to dismantle it, which can be time-consuming. You also have to buy a bike case to protect your bike. Bike cases can be costly, however, they are a good investment if you plan on travelling with your bike again in the future.
As far as e-bikes go, only certain Canadian airlines allow travel with an e-bike, and it depends on the brand. Some brands make a lighter, smaller e-bike than others, and if it’s too heavy or bulky, it will get denied. Luckily, there are transportation services that specialise in getting your e-bike to its destination.
This article provides you will everything you need to know about shipping your bicycle in Canada:
Not all shipping companies are the same. Since bikes are bulky, conventional shipping companies that handle regular parcels often find bike shipping expensive, and choose not to specialise in it.
Top Move offers a money-saving option that allows you to ship your bike without needing to dismantle it and fit it in a box. There are several transportation companies that specialise in bike transport and offer guaranteed security by safely attaching your bicycle to the truck wall.
This method helps to expedite the whole process while eliminating the need for costly (and waste-producing) packing materials.
The process for shipping your bicycle is straightforward. Here’s how to get your bike to its destination:
Create a clear and accurate description of your bicycle, including its transport time, pickup and delivery locations, and its dimensions. Make sure to specify that your bike will be fully assembled during transportation. Include any other details you think may be helpful, that makes it easier to quote the rate.
Once your delivery request is posted, companies will begin to submit quotes. The great thing about this system is that you can peruse the various quotes, contact the companies with questions, and get a feeling for their level of experience, professionalism and responsiveness. This allows you to fine-tune your choice and feel secure with the company.
You can also check out reviews and testimonials for different carriers on their Top Move website profiles. This feedback allows for transparency, helping you to get a better feel for the company’s experience and customer service.
Once you have chosen a carrier, maintain communication with them for any other questions or details. Be precise when organising pickup and delivery–the more information you can give them, the smoother the whole process will be.
Should you have any further concerns, the Top Move team is always available to assist throughout the entire shipping process.
You may choose a carrier that requires you to pack your bicycle in a box and have it shipped that way. Packing your bike correctly and with care is essential in order to keep it from being damaged during the trip. Here’s the steps to do it right starting with gathering the right materials.
DIY Packing Materials
A large, sturdy cardboard box
Smaller boxes for parts
Fork and wheel axle protectors
Bubble wrap and packing paper
Cable ties and packing tape
First, give your bike a good clean.
Disassemble your bike using an Allen key. Carefully remove the pedals, handlebars, seat post, saddle, racks, fenders, front wheel and water holders.
Wrap and secure each part with bubble wrap or packing paper. Scrap fabric can be used as a more sustainable option for packing.
Place parts in the small boxes and fill any gaps with packing material or fabric, and tape the boxes securely.
Wrap the rear derailleur, frame and handlebars with bubble wrap and secure with tape.
Place the bike and parts in the larger cardboard box, seal the box, and label it “FRAGILE”.
E-bikes are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which can be volatile. These batteries pose a risk of overheating, short-circuiting, and even catching fire under certain conditions, making them a safety hazard in cargo holds.
Many airlines prohibit or heavily restrict the transport of these batteries in cargo holds due to the associated fire risks.
Top Move can help connect you to the most suitable and affordable carrier for shipping your e-bike.
Shipping an e-bike must be done with extra care. Begin by removing the battery and shipping it separately if possible, following carrier guidelines. Then gather shipping materials such as:
An e-bike-specific shipping box
Bubble wrap
Foam Padding
Cable Ties
Packing Tape
Cardboard pieces
Tools for disassembly
Disassemble key components first:
Pedals
Front-wheel
Handlebars
All accessories.
Wrap the e-bike frame, pin bubble wrap or foam padding, and wrap extra padding around the motor and electronics. Place the wheels on either side of the bike inside the box, and use cardboard pieces to prevent contact with the bike. Secure loose parts in a smaller box or wrap them tightly.
Carefully place everything in the shipping box, filling gaps with padding to prevent any movement. Seal the box thoroughly with packing tape and label it "FRAGILE" and "THIS WAY UP."
It’s wise to get insurance for your shipment, as e-bikes are costly and somewhat fragile due to their electrical components. Including the battery safety certificates can make the shipping process go smoothly. If all of this seems intimidating or overwhelming, consider professional packing services if you're unsure about packing your e-bike safely.
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It's simple and easy to create a request on Top Move.
Describe, add photos and the dimensions of your shipment in your request — anything that you think will make a difference, will make a difference.
Our platform will reach out to moving companies relevant to your delivery specification in your area.
Movers may ask you a few more details about your delivery before giving you a quote.
Compare prices and get to know movers before accepting their quote by reading previous customer feedback on our platform.
Pick your preferred moving company and arrange collection and delivery.
Prepare your package for collection or if you are moving home, get ready for moving day.
Meet and greet your chosen moving company on your collection day.
Sit back and relax while your moving company takes care of your booking.
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