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How to Ship a Bicycle Cheaply in Canada

Shipping a bicycle/e-bicycles doesn’t have to break the bank, and with many Top Move carrier services, you don't even need to take your bike apart. Here is everything you need to know about shipping a bicycle or e-bike in Canada.
Jennifer Olson
· July 31, 2024
How to Ship a Bicycle Cheaply in Canada

Bicycle shipping services at low-cost across Canada

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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:

Preparing to Ship Your Bicycle

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.

How to Ship Your Bicycle

The process for shipping your bicycle is straightforward. Here’s how to get your bike to its destination:

Create a Listing For Your Bicycle

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.

Choose the Shipping Company That Best Suits Your Needs

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.

Shipping and Delivery of Your Bicycle

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.

How to Pack Your Bicycle Into a Box for Shipping

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

How to Disassemble and Pack Your Bike

  • 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”.

How to Ship an E-Bike

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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