There is something timeless about a Harley Davidson. The unmistakable engine note, the gleam of chrome, and the heritage that runs deep in every nut and bolt. It is more than a motorbike. It is an icon.
When Autoshippers were asked to help ship a 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider from the UK back to the USA, our team knew this was not just another international shipment. This was about returning a legendary motorcycle to its spiritual home across the Atlantic, and doing it safely, securely, and professionally.
This classic Harley, finished in elegant grey, belongs to Mike, a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast. The shipping process was arranged by his friend Grahame, who contacted Autoshippers to coordinate the collection, crating, and shipping of the bike to the USA. From the first conversation, the focus was clear. The Harley needed to be protected as if it were priceless, because in many ways, it was.
Why Secure Crating Is Essential for Motorbike Shipping
Shipping a motorbike internationally requires much more than loading it onto a ship. Every bike, especially a vintage or collector’s model, must be carefully protected against movement, vibration, moisture, and pressure changes during its journey. That is where Autoshippers’ custom-built crating process comes in.
Unlike some companies that rely on pre-made crates or open transport, Autoshippers specialise in bespoke motorbike crates, constructed individually for each shipment. Every crate is made to measure, built, and reinforced by skilled packers to ensure that the bike remains completely immobile throughout its voyage.
This approach is not just a service feature. It is our Unique Selling Point. Crating is what sets Autoshippers apart. It is the reason why hundreds of motorbike owners across the UK, from casual riders to collectors and restorers, trust us to ship their bikes overseas every year.
Collection from Reading – A Service Tailored to Every Rider
The Harley’s journey began in Reading, where Autoshippers arranged a specialist nationwide motorbike collection. Our dedicated motorcycle transporters are fully enclosed, protecting valuable bikes from the elements, road debris, and dust. Each vehicle is fitted with anchor points and stabilising systems designed specifically for motorbike transport, ensuring complete safety from door to depot.
Customers always have the option to deliver their bike to one of our facilities themselves, but for many, especially when shipping a vintage model, using our collection service adds convenience and peace of mind. For Grahame and Mike, this meant the bike was in professional hands from the very first mile.
Arrival at the Autoshippers Packing Facility
Upon arrival at our dedicated crating facility, every bike undergoes an initial inspection. The Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) is completed to record the bike’s exact condition prior to crating. This step is important both for transparency and for our specialist MoveProtect coverage, ensuring that our customers know their motorbike is fully protected every step of the way.
With the paperwork complete, the Harley was ready for its transformation, from a rolling work of art into a securely packed and professionally crated shipment, ready to cross the Atlantic.
The Crating Process – Built to Protect, Designed to Impress
The crating of this 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider is a perfect example of why Autoshippers’ packing methods have earned their reputation as the best in the business. Each crate is individually built to the bike’s exact dimensions, providing total protection and structural integrity. The result is a strong, fully enclosed unit that keeps the bike immobile and shielded from external forces.
1. Custom Base Construction
The process begins with a solid timber base, built using 3 inch x 4 inch machine-grade runners. This creates a stable foundation and allows the crate to be easily handled during loading and unloading.
2. Positioning and Securing the Motorbike
The Harley is carefully positioned on the base, balanced on its wheels and supported by the kickstand. The wheels are then secured using wooden chocks, which are fastened with 90mm hex head steel screws to prevent any movement during transit.
3. Shock and Vibration Protection
Sections of polystyrene sheeting are placed around key areas of the bike, such as the tank, frame, and footpegs, to absorb shocks and vibrations. This helps prevent even the slightest scuff or dent during handling.
4. High-Strength Strapping
Using high-tensile, soft polyester ratchet straps, each rated to between 500 and 800 kg breaking strain, the Harley is securely strapped down at multiple points. These straps are tensioned precisely to immobilise the bike without compressing or stressing suspension components.
5. ISPM15-Compliant Timber
All timber used in Autoshippers crates is ISPM15 certified, meaning it meets international export standards and can pass through any customs inspection without issue. This compliance is essential for global shipping and ensures that every crate is accepted at international ports.
6. Protective Wrapping and Side Panels
Once secured, the motorbike is wrapped in clear plastic sheeting to protect against dust and moisture. Padded supports are added to handlebars, mirrors, and exposed areas, and wooden side panels are attached using 70mm hex head screws to complete the enclosure.
7. Top Support and Sealing
Additional timber beams are fitted across the top of the crate for structural reinforcement. The lid is then attached, and the crate is banded, sealed, and clearly labelled with all relevant shipment markings.
This meticulous process ensures that a motorbike arrives overseas in precisely the same condition it left the UK, even after thousands of miles at sea.
Watch: Crating the 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider
See our professional packing team at work as they custom-build and secure the shipping crate for this classic 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider.
The LCL Shipping Process – Efficient, Reliable, and Cost-Effective
With the Harley safely crated, it was time to prepare it for loading onto its vessel. Autoshippers booked this shipment on an LCL (Less than Container Load) service, our preferred method for shipping motorbikes internationally.
In LCL shipping, multiple securely crated vehicles or goods share container space, each individually packed and protected. This method combines maximum safety with cost efficiency, as the customer only pays for the space their crate occupies.
For this shipment, the Harley was loaded on board the Atlantic Sea, sailing from Liverpool to New York, and continuing to Richmond, Virginia. Throughout the process, our logistics team handled all export documentation, including the Bill of Lading, V5 verification, and customs declarations.
Arrival in the USA – Smooth Customs and Safe Handover
On arrival in New York, Autoshippers’ US-based customs agent took over, handling all import clearance requirements.
Thanks to the Harley’s age, manufactured in 1977, it met the 25-Year Exemption Rule. Once cleared, the bike was transported to Richmond and then onward to Charlottesville by the customer.
When the crate was opened, the Harley emerged exactly as it left. Clean, secure, and ready to ride.
Documentation and Compliance – Shipping Motorbikes to the USA
Shipping a motorbike from the UK to the USA involves both physical preparation and accurate documentation. Autoshippers guide customers through every step.
Documents Required for Export
- V5 Registration Certificate
- Bill of Sale or Purchase Invoice
- Passport photo page
- Packing list if shipping parts
- Export licence if applicable
The 25-Year Rule Explained
- Eligibility based on month and year of manufacture
- Exemption from FMVSS
- EPA Form 3520-1
- DOT HS-7 declaration
- CBP Form 7501 entry summary
How Autoshippers Help
Autoshippers work with specialist customs brokers and US-based agents to ensure efficient clearance and minimal delays.
Spotlight on a Legend – The 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider
The 1977 Harley Davidson FXS Lowrider was Harley’s first true factory custom. Featuring a 1200cc Shovelhead V-twin, drag-style handlebars, and a raked front fork, it became an icon of late 1970s America.
Hand Crafted Bespoke Crating – The Autoshippers USP
At Autoshippers, crating is what sets us apart.
- Maximum protection
- ISPM15 certified timber
- Custom-built fit
- High-strength strapping
- Optional inclusion of spares
- Complete peace of mind
Why Riders Trust Autoshippers
Autoshippers have over 25 years of experience shipping vehicles worldwide. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing, dedicated support, and global reach.
Your motorbike is not just cargo to us. It is personal.
Ship Your Motorbike with Autoshippers
If you are planning to ship your motorbike overseas, the Autoshippers team are here to help.
Phone: +44 (0)117 982 8123 or 0800 389 0784
Email: sales@autoshippers.co.uk
Website: www.autoshippers.co.uk
