Shipping a mini bike across the country can seem like a daunting and expensive task. You’ve finally found that perfect cheap mini bike online, maybe a vintage model or a great deal from a private seller, but the distance is holding you back. The good news is, affordable options exist to get your mini bike from point A to point B without breaking the bank. Based on real experiences from mini bike enthusiasts, here’s a breakdown of some of the cheapest ways to ship your mini bike across the country.
One of the most frequently mentioned options for cheap shipping is Fastenal. Many in the mini bike community have successfully used Fastenal’s shipping services, often citing it as the most budget-friendly choice. One user reported shipping a Wards 525 mini bike from Wisconsin to Louisiana for just $125 using Fastenal. This involved securing the bike to a pallet and shipping it as a single, complete unit.
A classic Wards 525 mini bike, a popular model often sought after by enthusiasts.
However, while Fastenal is known for its cheap rates, it’s not always the fastest service. Some users have experienced longer transit times with Fastenal, with one mentioning a two-week delivery time from Wisconsin and another ten days from Arizona. It’s a trade-off: you save money, but you might need to be patient. Interestingly, despite being known for shipping large items, some Fastenal locations might initially hesitate to ship mini bikes, sometimes citing concerns about engines or potential damage claims. Persistence and clarifying that the fuel tank is drained might be necessary, or contacting Fastenal’s 3PL (Third Party Logistics) department directly can help resolve any confusion.
Another cost-effective method discussed is Greyhound Package Express. One user shared a positive experience shipping a Tote Gote mini bike from upstate New York to Michigan using Greyhound. They highlighted the convenience of online booking and payment and praised the helpfulness of Greyhound terminal staff. A key advantage mentioned was the ability to ship in two separate packages under one shipment by removing the forks, potentially useful for staying within weight limits. The main limitation with Greyhound is the 100-pound weight restriction per package, which might require some disassembly of your mini bike.
A vintage Tote Gote mini bike, showcasing a different style of classic mini bike.
UPS and USPS are also mentioned, but with caveats. While potentially faster than Fastenal, they are generally considered more expensive for shipping a complete mini bike. To make UPS or USPS a viable option, disassembly and careful packing are essential. One user mentioned getting discounted UPS shipping rates through a PayPal account, which could bring costs down for some. However, even with discounts, these services might still be pricier than Fastenal or Greyhound for larger, heavier items like mini bikes.
Various mini bike parts, illustrating the components that might need shipping when restoring or building a mini bike.
Finally, U-Ship is briefly mentioned as another possibility. U-Ship is an online marketplace where you can list your shipping needs and receive quotes from various carriers. This can be a good option to explore to compare prices and potentially find specialized shippers who are experienced in transporting motorcycles or similar items.
When considering the cheapest way to ship your mini bike, remember to factor in not just the price, but also the speed of delivery and any potential restrictions or requirements from the shipping company. For budget-conscious shipping, Fastenal and Greyhound appear to be popular choices within the mini bike community. If speed is a priority and you’re willing to disassemble and pack the bike yourself, UPS or USPS could be considered, especially if you can access discounted rates. Exploring U-Ship can also provide competitive quotes and connect you with suitable carriers. By weighing these options, you can confidently ship your cheap mini bike across the country and get ready to ride!
