3 min read

How To Pack A Bicycle For a Move

Packing your bicycle properly will keep your bike in good condition during a long-distance move.
By · Updated July 10, 2024
How To Pack A Bicycle For a Move

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A bicycle is more than just a mode of transport. Bikes provide significant physical and mental health benefits and are environmentally friendly. Many people see their bicycles as a valuable asset, with many bikes valued at one or two thousand dollars. Naturally, most want to ensure their bikes are protected during a move.

The best way to protect your bike during a move is to use a professional moving service. However, if the cost is prohibitive or you prefer to move it yourself, our guide can help ensure your bike remains safe during the move.

Benefits of Shipping Your Bicycle with Wise Move

With Wise Move, you can transport your bicycle without the need to box or dismantle it.

Our network of specialised transporters can securely attach your fully-assembled bicycle to the truck wall, ensuring safe and secure transport. This method not only saves on costs associated with packing materials but also eliminates the time and hassle involved in disassembling and reassembling your bike.

Gather Packing Materials

If you choose to pack your bicycle yourself, proper packaging is crucial for its protection during the move. Here are the packing materials you will need:

  • 1 large cardboard bike box

  • 1 smaller cardboard box for disassembled parts

  • 1 fork protector

  • 4 wheel axle protectors

  • Bubble wrap or packing paper

  • 7 to 10 foam protection tubes (optional)
  • Cable ties

  • Packing tape

These packing materials are usually available at your local bike shop. You'll also need disassembling tools to take your bike apart.

Disassemble Your Bike

If packing your bike, you'll need to disassemble it into smaller parts to fit it properly into the cardboard box. Packing it properly will help protect the delicate mechanisms of your bike. Begin by removing the following parts:

  • Pedals

  • Handlebars

  • Seat post and saddle

  • Racks and fenders

  • Front wheel

  • Water holders

Use disassembling tools and clean your bike with a soft rag before disassembling it.

Pack the Disassembled Parts Separately

Secure the disassembled parts separately to prevent loss during transit. Wrap the smaller disassembled parts with bubble wrap or packing paper, secure with a strip of tape, and place them inside a small box. Fill any empty space with additional bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent movement during transit. Securely tape the small box shut and place it inside the cardboard bike box.

Pack and Box Your Bike

After disassembling the removable parts, ensure the remaining parts are well protected:

1. Protect the Rear Derailleur

The rear derailleur shifts the bike chain around the rear sprockets. This delicate part should be wrapped in bubble wrap and secured with packing tape.

2. Pad and Cushion the Frame

Protect the bike frame by sliding on foam protection tubes and securing them with cable ties. If you don't have foam tubes, use bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent scratches to the bike frame.

3. Secure the Handlebars

Protecting the handlebars is crucial. For flat handlebars, fit them atop the frame tube of the wheel and wrap generously. For dropped handlebars, position them under the frame tube and partly inside the wheel, then wrap with bubble wrap.

4. Place the Bike in the Box

Carefully place the bike inside the cardboard box and seal it properly. Label the box "FRAGILE".

If packing and moving your bike seems too complicated, consider hiring professional movers in New Zealand. Wise Move can connect you with trusted moving companies that specialise in bicycle transport. Simply submit a job listing on our site to receive multiple quotes from NZ's trusted moving companies. We can also assist with motorcycle, car, or boat transport.

Bicycle shipping services at low-cost across New Zealand

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10
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Reviewed 12 hours ago
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First time user of Wise Move and it will not be my last time. I was unfamiliar with the process and could not open all the quotes received but once I received an email from Emma (Wise Moves) with an offer of assistance she made it very easy i.e. I advised which quote I wanted to accept and she made it all happen. On time at at the quoted amount. The lads from Fast track logistics were very efficient and took great care of my items transported. I highly recommend them and Wise Move. Garry (Karori)
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Reviewed 15 hours ago
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Display cabinets (3)
Mosgiel, Otago
Red Beach, Auckland
10
Ben
Reviewed 15 hours ago
Fantastic service. Went above and beyond to organise collection. Packaged incredibly for moving. Couldn’t ask for better. Thanks
$338
Gree 12.5kw single phase aircon x2 (2), Outdoor (2)
Levin, Manawatu-Wanganui
Christchurch, Sydenham
10
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Reviewed 23 hours ago
Quick Cheap safe transport
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10
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