Motorcycle Travel Guide
Travel Information
Different destinations have different requirements on import and export of goods and vehicles.
Carnet de Passage en Douanes
A ‘Carnet de Passage en Douanes’ enables vehicles to be temporarily ‘imported’ into a country avoiding local duties and taxes.
A carnet is required for travel in: Africa (not required in Tunisia and Morocco); Australia/New Zealand; Far East; Middle East and is recommended in South America.
A Carnet de Passage en Douane section has been introduced on the FIA public website. The [FIA website] is a fundamental platform to ensure a wider visibility of the carnet at an international level.
On this site you will find information on:
- About the carnet and the Triptych
- Advantages of the carnet system
- Where to get a carnet
- How the carnet system functions
- Carnet brochures (in Arabic, English, French and Spanish)
Documents
It is a requirement in almost every country to have motoring insurance on your vehicle before it arrives there. If you don’t have this then there is every chance that the bike will be denied entry.
Many people scan and email their important documents to themselves prior to travel. This way they can access them at any time from an internet café. As part of our service we will issue you with a key fob with our 24 hour number.
We will hold copies of your important paperwork on file and in the event of an accident/emergency. So should you not be able to access the internet our number is in your ignition and you or the authorities will be able to contact us.
Preparation
You may encounter stretches of gravel road and even off road on your travels. Plan ahead and take in some training with the best to ensure that your riding skills are at their peak.
Need help with motorbike shipping and paperwork? Let James Cargo handle the logistics, from carnet advice to secure shipping, we make international motorcycle travel easy.
Australia
Motorcycle Travel Guide to Australia with James Cargo Services
Join the 1000's of Aussie bikers on some of the world's best roads, under blue, blue skies. Every year, 100's of bikers from Europe venture Down Under for a real biking holiday. With microclimates to suit all, cities, sun, sand and sea — and... deserts..
Bikers of all species abound, so it doesn't matter what you ride, you'll fit in.
No one has measured the endless roads in Australia ‘coz they haven't made a speedo with enough digits on it.
Ready to ride in Australia? Let James Cargo Services handle your bike shipping hassle-free. We’re trusted by riders worldwide to get their motorcycles safely to and from the UK.
Book your shipment today and start your Aussie adventure with confidence.
You'll need a Carnet fia.com
Plus, here are a couple of great websites to help you on your way:
China
Ride Your Own Bike All the Way to China
Yes, you can ride your own motorcycle all the way to China, the ultimate way to enjoy Chinese takeaways with a serious twist of adventure.
Ready to make it happen? Let James Cargo handle the motorcycle transport to China so you can focus on the ride.
We’re trusted by adventure riders worldwide to transport bikes safely, securely, and on time, whether it’s Beijing or Brisbane.
Ship your bike with confidence and start your journey today. Get in touch!
Join a GlobeBusters Expedition and experience one of the world’s most iconic overland journeys.
Watch the trailer”
For full video visit: globebusters.com
Colombia
The New Gateway into South America
Since 2009, we’ve been shipping and airfreighting motorcycles in and out of Bogotá, opening the door to one of the most stunning regions in the world.
Colombia offers an unforgettable mix of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and thrilling roads. With its fascinating past, breathtaking scenery, and warm, welcoming people, Bogotá has become the perfect launch point into the heart of Latin America.
Explore the vibrant capital, visit the Gold Museum to uncover ancient Latino culture, and indulge in Colombia’s incredible cuisine and world-class wines.
Ready to ride South America on your own bike? Let James Cargo handle your bike shipping to Colombia and beyond. We specialise in reliable, secure motorcycle transport so you can focus on the adventure ahead.
Kenya
Kenya – Truly the Middle of the Planet
Whether you're riding northbound, southbound, or simply visiting Kenya for the experience, you’ll be amazed.
Exploring Kenya by motorcycle is the adventure of a lifetime. The landscapes are breathtaking, and the people, despite modest means, are incredibly warm, friendly, and welcoming.
Visit the Maasai Mara, home of the famed Marsh Pride and Big Cat Diaries, or head into one of Kenya’s many game parks for an unforgettable safari experience.
Want to take your bike to Kenya? Let James Cargo Service offer expert motorcycle relocation services
Morocco
Africa on Your Doorstep
Open roads, sand dunes, ski slopes, straight roads, twisty roads, excellent food, belly dancers, snake charmers, rich culture and most importantly, good beer. Morocco is closer than you think.
Getting your motorcycle to Morocco is simple. We ship your bike to Málaga, Spain, from there, you collect it and ride to Algeciras to cross into Africa. No complicated customs, just a quick form at the border. Within minutes, you're on the road, soaking up Moroccan sunshine and adventure.
All you need is proof of ownership, your passport, and insurance and the road is yours.
Let James Cargo handle the logistics. We specialise in motorcycle shipping across Europe, Africa, and beyond, taking the stress out of international riding adventures.
Or take it further with a full expedition, ride with the pros at globebusters.com
Namibia
A Biking Paradise – Discover Namibia on Two Wheels
Can you imagine a country covering 824,000 square kilometres, with a population density of just 2.43 people per square kilometre, over 5,450 km of tarred roads and an incredible 37,000 km of gravel roads? Welcome to Namibia, a true biking paradise.
Nestled northwest of South Africa and west of Botswana, Namibia offers some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth. From the vast Etosha Pan wetlands in the north to the towering dunes and stark beauty of the Namib Desert, this country is a dream for adventure riders. Don’t miss the spectacular Fish River Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon.
Namibia is home to a rich variety of African wildlife, with numerous game reserves to explore along your route. Whether you’re after budget-friendly self-catering stays or luxury hotels, accommodation options are available across the country.
To bring your own bike, you’ll need a Carnet de Passage: fia.com
The carnet also gives you access to neighbouring countries such as Botswana and South Africa and yes, imagine riding your motorcycle to Victoria Falls. Absolutely unforgettable. A visa for Zambia is required but is generally available at the border.
Ready to ride Namibia and beyond? Allow James Cargo Service to take care of getting your bike there safely and securely. We specialise in international motorcycle shipping so you can hit the road as soon as you land.
Panama
What a Fantastic Place – Discover Panama by Motorcycle
Whether you start, end, or simply pass through on your journey, Panama will leave you speechless with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and strategic location.
With its fascinating history and stunning coastal landscapes, Panama is an essential stop for anyone riding through the Americas. It’s the perfect midway break, unwind with warm hospitality, enjoy world-class cuisine, and explore the country’s turquoise waters and exquisite islands, ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
If you’re traveling north or south, chances are you’ll need to pass through Panama. And when you do, you’ll benefit from our experienced partners on the ground who specialise in motorcycle transfers to Colombia and Ecuador or can help return your bike to the USA or Europe.
Fun Fact: When traveling through the Panama Canal from the Atlantic to the Pacific, you’re actually going from west to east and over 14,500 ships make that journey every year.
Need to ship your motorcycle to or from Panama? Whether you're heading into South America or returning home, we offer secure, efficient motorcycle shipping services tailored to adventure riders.
Senegal
If You’ve Made It to Dakar, You’ve Had a Great Ride
Whether you’ve travelled southbound through the Sahara or north from Cape Town, arriving in Dakar, Senegal is a milestone for any adventure rider.
With its warm weather, wide smiles, giant baobab trees, and surprisingly good roads, Senegal is a rewarding and memorable destination. It’s also the perfect place to pause, reflect and plan your next move.
Ready to head home or continue your journey? Our trusted agents in Dakar are highly experienced in motorcycle shipping and will treat your bike with the same care it’s shown you along the way. Whether you want to ship or airfreight your motorcycle to or from Dakar, we can get it where it needs to go safely, securely, and hassle-free.
While you're in Senegal, don’t miss one of the country’s best-kept secrets, the peaceful oasis of Zebrabar. A true blessing for every overlander. Visit: zebrabar.net
South Africa
The world’s best biking roads are here.
On or off-road, Southern Africa has it all.
Ride off-road through the bush, see the Big Five, or enjoy some of the most spectacular mountain passes before heading into the desert. South Africa is packed with adventure home to the world’s highest fixed bungee jump off the Bloukrans Bridge, shark diving with Great Whites, and a range of scuba diving experiences. If you're heading south, time your trip with some of the best motorcycle rallies in the region.
You’ll need a Carnet de Passage for South Africa: fia.com . It also covers most Southern African countries. UK passport holders don’t need a visa unless entering Mozambique or Zambia both are available at border crossings. Before travelling, consult your travel clinic for malaria medication and health advice.
Want to ride your own bike in Southern Africa? Let James Cargo Service ship your motorcycle safely and efficiently to or from South Africa. Trusted by global adventure riders, we make your journey smooth from start to finish.
Get a quote now!
United States
Route US 101: The Famous Pacific Coast Highway
The longest coastal highway in the world, US 101 offers some of the most varied and breathtaking scenery on Earth. Take your time and enjoy the incredible views from sea lions lounging on the beaches to the towering Redwoods in the Avenue of the Giants, so massive that the road actually goes through them.
If you’re looking to mix it up, venture cross-country to Las Vegas, or time your trip to ride all the way to the Sturgis Rally before continuing on to Chicago, then return home from there.
No Carnet de Passage is required for the USA, unless you’re heading further into South America. Just bring your bike insurance documents.
"There is no law north of the Yukon, and no God north of the Arctic Circle." Welcome to Alaska!
Alaska, as part of the USA, follows all the same regulations. It’s home to Prudhoe Bay, the most northern point accessible by road, the perfect starting place for any traveller touring the Americas.
Take on the Dalton Highway, time your ride to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, spot wild bears and other incredible wildlife, and don’t forget to experience skinny dipping in the Arctic Ocean, it’s a rite of passage.
Ready to start your ride on the Pacific Coast or head up to Alaska? We can safely and efficiently ship your motorcycle to your next adventure, whether you're exploring the Pacific Coast Highway or heading to Alaska. Contact us now!
