Terms and Conditions

By paying a deposit you agree to these Terms and Conditions, which apply to all shipment bookings made with Own Bike Odyssey (ABN 38 584 959 294).

1. Defined Terms

the 'Organiser'

Own Bike Odyssey (OBO) is 'the Organiser' of 'the Service'.

the 'Service'

OBO consolidate motorbikes at depots then ship full container loads (FCLs) to strategic destinations at ideal times dictated by season. These destinations not only provide gateways to the world’s epic routes for Aussie riders, they also provide convenient motorbike consolidation points for shipping to Australia. Where possible, good value longer term secure storage options are also offered at the depots to accommodate riders’ different timing plans.

The intention of the 'Service' is to be a streamlined Depot-to-Depot motorbike logistics service tailored for overlanders between Australia and Round the World (RtW).

Full Container Load (FCL)

FCL is the ocean freight shipping method used by the Organiser where an entire shipping container is exclusively booked for the Clients' Motorbikes. This is a critical aspect of the Service because the container remains sealed from Origin to Destination. Compared to Less-than-Container Load (LCL), FCL offers faster transit times, lower handling risks and superior reliability with respect to export and import processes. With few exceptions, OBO will not use LCL due to higher risk nature of shipment.

the 'Shipment Management Platform' (SMP)

www.ownbikeodyssey.com/shipments shows summary tables of available shipments AND thumbnail links to the SMP for each specific shipment. The SMP is specialised software used to coordinate and streamline everything relevant to each individual shipment, including: Client tasks, data capture, document uploads and communications.

Critical to the Service is that the SMP provides for a single point of truth. EVERYTHING MUST MATCH as the Client completes their Tasks. For example, the Client will input data from their Motorbike Registration Certificate, including VIN and Engine numbers. The Client will also upload photos of these numbers from their Motorbike and CHECK that they match. The Service does not rely on interpreting handwriting from manual forms.

the 'Depots'

The Depots are secure storage facilities used as both: 1) Origins for delivery and consolidation of motorbikes; and 2) Destinations for collection of motorbikes. Depot arrangements vary depending on local idiosyncrasies and are clearly explained in the SMP.

the 'Agents'

Agents include both International Freight Forwarding (IFF) and Customs agents. OBO engage accredited agents who specialise in both: 1) the local port operations; and 2) the local import + export processes required for foreign used motorbikes for touring purpose.

the 'Client, Owner and Rider'

The Client is the person paying for the Service. The Client must be the Owner of the Motorbike and also the Rider of the Motorbike for touring purpose. The processes used for the Service assume this is the case.

The Client, Owner, Rider and Independent Moto Overlander are all the same person.

The Client must disclose to the Organiser if this is not the case because it will require different processes (if even possible). The different terms get used interchangeably depending on the context, for example: 1) 'Client' may relate to payments for the Service; 2) 'Owner' relates to export and import customs operations; and 3) 'Rider/s' get used when disseminating general information.

the 'Motorbike' for touring purpose

The Service is specifically tailored for privately owned used Motorbikes shipping for the Owner's touring purpose. The Service provides for both Australian registered and non-Australian registered Motorbikes for touring purpose. Very specific processes are required for this specific type of shipment. The term Motorbike is defined as this type of Motorbike.

Motorbikes NOT for touring purpose

The Client must disclose to the Organiser if their Motorbike is NOT for touring purpose because it will require different processes (if even possible). Motorbikes NOT for touring purpose will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Master Bill of Lading (MBL)

MBL is the primary, legally binding transport document issued by the shipping line to the freight forwarder. It covers the entire consolidated FCL shipment from port-to-port, acting as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods and document of title.

House Bill of Lading (HBL)

HBL is a shipping document issued by the freight forwarder to the Owner. It acts as a contract of carriage and details specific information about the Motorbike and Owner. HBLs provide the Service with a great deal of flexibility and are critical to specific Import processes used at the Destination.

Given FCL many freight forwarders will attempt to not use HBLs because they incur significant costs due to not only the cost of all the HBLs themselves but also other charges in the process calculated per HBL. However, the Service will always ensure that each Motorbike has it's own HBL and the Owner will be issued their own individual HBL when it becomes available.

the 'Independent Moto Overlander'

An Independent Moto Overlander is a self-reliant motorcyclist who undertakes long-range, long-term, adventurous travel to remote destinations with a focus on the Journey rather than the destination. The Motorbike is a means for cultural exploration and experiencing the world's ethereal landscapes. The Motorbike also provides for self-supported camping in these spectacular settings. Ultimately the Independent Moto Overlander manages their own route planning, overlanding logistics, navigation, moto maintenance AND SAFETY without a support crew.

Before paying a deposit, the Client is encouraged to read Article: You The Rider in order to ensure that 'eyes are wide open' with respect to this kind of endeavour.

the 'Journey' and the meaning behind 'Own Bike Odyssey'

The 'Journey' is unique to each individual Rider and will typically be challenging with changes in fortune. Many riders find the Journey to be a spiritual endeavour that forever changes their perception of the world. This is the meaning behind 'Own Bike Odyssey'.

Historically the rigmarole involved in overlander shipping logistics is very much part of the Journey, however, for the purpose of these Terms and Conditions the Journey is defined as everything that happens beyond the Depots, which falls outside of the Service.

the '7Ps'

Proper Planning and Preparation Prevents Piss Poor Performance is the adage known as the 7Ps. OBO manages the Service this way and encourages the Rider to manage their Journey the same, particularly for trans-Africa and trans-Asia. The administrative tasks required to be completed by the Rider for the Service are also required for their Journey. The Rider should have their own cloud storage and onboard USB backup to save all of their shipment information for their Journey.

2. 'General Advice' for the Journey

Although the Service is Depot-to-Depot, Riders will be provided with 'General Advice' for the Journey. Riders can lose an incredible amount of time in the 7Ps for their Journey and furthermore that time is a mass duplication of effort between all Riders researching exactly the same stuff. The Service intends to save Riders time by providing General Advice related to critical aspects of the Journey, including: seasonal timings specific to remote off-road, route planning, border crossings, insurance, critical documentation, critical permits, onward shipping and/or RORO ferry, escorts (if any required), tyres and maintenance opportunity, etc.

The Rider must appreciate that the overlanding logistics landscape is subject to change, particularly with respect to changes in geopolitical situations. OBO is not responsible for up-to-the-minute accuracy of the General Advice communicated and furthermore it is the Rider's responsibility to check the advice for themselves.

OBO may enable the Journey with the Service but ultimately, You the Rider are solely responsible for your Journey. OBO sincerely asks to be notified of any changes to the Journey's critical information so that OBO may communicate that information to other Riders.

For example, when Tazhen border crossing's closure for maintenance planned for 3 months from Feb 2025 blew out into large-scale modernisation works - OBO could advise all Riders not only of the situation but also of an alternative border crossing option.

3. Computer Literacy

The Client requires basic computer literacy in order to use the SMP. Should a Client struggle with computer literacy then they need to engage 'Tech Help'. The Service does not work with Clients sending bits of information via text messages and emails. Part of the reason the Service is able to achieve exceptional value for the Client is due to the fact that the Organiser does not have overheads that include an office full of staff performing manual data entry.

When considering 'Tech Help' you should also consider your Emergency Contacts at the same time. Every Rider should have TWO Emergency Contacts for their Journey. Ideally your 'Tech Help' is also an Emergency Contact. This is a great option to get an Emergency Contact familiarised with your Journey during the 7Ps.

4. Completion of Tasks and Valid Documentation

The Tasks Tab in the SMP clearly defines what is required of the Client. It is the Client's responsibility to complete their Tasks by their due dates.

Examples of critical documentation include (but not limited to):

Registration Certificate

Your motorbike registration must remain current for the duration your motorbike is overseas from it's home country. This is a requirement for all shipments. Be aware that New South Wales registered motorbikes 5 years or older require a 'pink slip' to renew registration each year.

Import documentation for motorbikes not in their home country

Unless you're shipping from your home country, you must provide valid documentation for your motorbike’s import at the Origin. THIS WILL GET CHECKED BY CUSTOMS. For example, if you plan to onward ship from Chile or Colombia, then your Temporary Import Permit (TIP) from your last border crossing (valid for 3 months) must still be valid at time of export.

Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD)

For more detailed information read Article: Carnet de Passages en Douane. CPD is not required for North America, South America, Europe (except for Italy import) or most of the trans-Asia route. A valid CPD is required for:

• Malaysia

• South Africa

• Italy (import only)

• Australia for non-Australian registered motorbikes

  • Australian registered motorbikes can also use CPD for re-import but not required

5. Motorbike Transport Method

Read Article Motorbike Transport Method. There are FOUR possible motorbike transport methods:

1. OBO's specialised steel stillages;

2. individual pallets;

3. group pallets; or

4. lashed directly to shipping container's lashing points.

As of 2026 OBO is in a ramp up phase investing heavily in the manufacture of it's own specialised steel stillages. OBO intends to provide for the use of it's stillages in all shipments but there are cases where this may not be possible, particularly during ramp up as stillages are still being built. The transport method will be detailed in the SMP.

6. 'Schedule' and 'Buffer'

The operation's Schedule is dependent on TWO KEY DATES determined by the shipping line:

1) Vessel ETD from the origin port; and
2) Vessel ETA to the destination port.

The dates and duration shown at the top of the SMP pages are ETD, ETA & sea days. The Schedule is structured much the same for all shipments but there are variances, which are detailed in the SMP and usually related to the import process. The following is an example typical Schedule structure:

• Free storage period at Origin Depot for motorbike delivery - minimum 2 weeks

• Cut-off day to deliver your motorbike is the day before container pack day

• Origin Process 7+ days

  • Container pack

  • Truck to Port

  • Gate in deadline at port 3 days prior to ETD

  • some buffer days

• Sea freight days

• Destination Process 7+ days

  • Time for vessel to berth

  • Discharge from vessel

  • Truck to Depot

  • Container unpack

  • some buffer days

• BUFFER period in case of the unforeseen – minimum 14 days with free storage provided to accommodate this period

The Buffer period is an important consideration. Stuff can happen with ports and shipping lines that is out of our control, so buffer period is included to assist in de-risking the Schedule. We do not want riders landing without their bikes ready to collect – so we provide free storage to cover the buffer period and furthermore, good storage rate options thereafter where possible. Italy is free for two months!

The date for motorbikes ready to collect will be communicated in the SMP as follows: 1) earliest feasible; 2) most likely; and 3) recommended. The recommended date is usually 'most likely' PLUS Buffer period. The Rider may wish to incorporate additional buffer in the Schedule.

OBO will keep the Riders updated every step of the way Depot-to-Depot.

7. Payment

The Client must make a deposit of 30% of the total price to guarantee participation in the Service. A space for the Client's motorbike will not be held without the deposit paid. Once a container is full then that shipment is closed unless another Client forgoes their space.

The balance amount must then be paid within seven days of the booking being made with the shipping line. Clients will receive a notification via the SMP when the booking has been made with the shipping line.

The lead time to which bookings can be made is highly variable between shipping lines and their serviced routes, particularly during peak periods when the majority of OBO shipments are scheduled. Generally the lead time is vicinity 9 weeks to 5 weeks before the vessel's Estimated Time of Departure.

Bank Transfer and Credit Card options are available via the SMP. The required payment amount shown in the SMP is the amount that must land in OBO's account, which is a Wise Business Account. Any additional fees associated with the transfer are at the Client's expense.

8. Refunds

The Client may resign from taking part in the Service at any moment. Formal resignation is required to be sent to the Organiser's email address. Refunds will be made via Bank Transfer. Any additional fees associated with the Refund transfer are at the Client's expense. The Refund the Client receives is:

• 100% of Deposit when resigning prior to 4 months before vessel ETD

• 50% of Deposit when resigning prior to 3 months before vessel ETD

• No Refund thereafter

• Full Refund of Deposit + Balance will be given if:

  • the container is full; and

  • the resigned space gets filled by another Client.

With respect to Refunds please consider:

• The Organiser makes commitments to other parties in order to have shipments organised by 2 months before vessel ETD; and

• The Client paying their Deposit not only secures their space but also potentially blocks another Rider from participating in the Service.

9. Minimum Number of Clients

SMPs will generally specify 10 x Motorbikes as the minimum number to proceed with the shipment. However, enabling Clients respective Journeys will always be first and foremost. OBO has proceeded with shipments with only 5 to 7 Motorbikes on multiple occasions.

If a shipment has onboarded less than the minimum number of Motorbikes then best efforts will still be made to proceed with the shipment providing OBO can cover costs.

For example, if there are x4 Riders from Melbourne and x2 Riders from Brisbane then OBO would proceed with a shipment from Melbourne only. The cost would depend on the specifics of the shipment. It is likely the cost could remain fixed with 7 Riders but perhaps a cost increase of AU$500 would be required if only 5 to 6 riders.

The best thing Riders can do to encourage participation by other Riders is to pay their deposit. Should a shipment not be able to proceed due to too few Clients and inability for OBO to cover costs then a Full Refund will be provided to Clients.

10. Cancellation of Transport

The Organiser has the right to cancel the Service:

• for reasons beyond the Organiser's control e.g. outbreak of war, other geopolitical situations, strike action, etc;

• instance of force majeure;

• if unable to cover costs for the shipment due to low Client numbers, but no later than 30 days prior to ETD;

11. Inclusions

• Consolidation of motorbikes at depots

• Container hire

• Loading

• Export Customs

• Origin charges

• Sea freight

• Destination charges

• Import customs

• Biosecurity inspection; and 

• Free storage period to be used as buffer in the schedule.

12. Exclusions

• Australia's Motorbike Reimportation Approval (compulsory without valid CPD carnet)

• Charges for Biosecurity direction to wash and subsequent inspection

• Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance (optional) 

• Third Party Insurance for destination country (compulsory) 

• Personal Travel Insurance (compulsory)

• International Driving Permit (compulsory)

• Personal Flights

13. Australia's Motorbike Reimportation Approval

Clients with Australian registered motorbikes MUST READ Article: Aussie Motorbike Reimportation Approval. The Client should complete Tasks 1 & 2 before shipping their motorbike from Australia in the first place. Tasks 1 & 2 cost nothing to complete. The Client can then complete Task 3 (application for reimportation approval) when their motorbike is overseas. Task 3 will cost vicinity AU$40.

These Tasks are not only basic and quick for the Client to complete, they are also part of the reason the Service is able to provide exceptional value. Agents typically charge Clients $300+ to complete these Tasks on their behalf.

14. Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance policies must be taken out directly by the Owner, buyer or seller of cargo being transported. The Organiser cannot take out insurance for you or it will be invalid. You can make your own insurance arrangements, or the Organiser can send your details to their recommended insurance broker, who will arrange a Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance Policy for you. Indicative costing for Aussie bikes is vicinity $50 admin fee plus the total premium, which is dependent on valuation and shipment details. Indicative premiums range from vicinity $110 for $15,000 bike valuation to $220 for $30,000.

Further Marine Cargo Insurance information will be supplied once requested in the SMP's Tasks, which involves ticking a 'Yes' box. Please appreciate that the Organiser and the Agents use care in the planning and execution of the Service to ensure the safe and timely transport of your motorbike, however:

IF YOU PROCEED WITHOUT INSURANCE THEN YOU WILL BE SHIPPING AT YOUR OWN RISK

15. Third-Party Liability Insurance

The SMP has a dedicated Task for Third-Party Liability Insurance with everything a Rider needs to purchase a policy. Third-Party Liability Insurance is managed completely different between all Destinations. Australia's is the worst. Most import processes don't require it. Malaysia import process does require it. Regardless, it is compulsory and all Riders should have a policy purchased before hitting the road.

16. Travel Insurance

Just remember, cheaper is not always better. Ensure that you check everything, including engine size restriction, riding off-road, riding non-gazetted roads and pillion coverage if you’re 2up. If a country or region is demarcated a red zone by your government, then you may need a separate insurance policy for when you intend to ride through that country or region. Check Smart Traveller for all countries you intend to travel. Know the risks and be calculated in your risk taking.

17. International Driving Permit (IDP)

An IDP is a translation of your valid Australian driver license in nine languages. The Australian Automobile Association (AAA) is the only authorised distributor of IDPs in Australia for Australian driver license holders. Cost is $51 (+postage) valid worldwide for 12 months from date of issue.

18. Delivering your Motorbike to Depot ready for shipping

The SMP's Tasks will give clear instructions with respect to Motorbike delivery to specific Depots. As a general guide:

• Your motorbike must be clean – read Article: Cleaning Your Motorbike.

• Even though a Destination may not have cleanliness standards as strict as Australia’s Biosecurity Inspection, Clients should still clean their bikes to this standard.

• There must be less than 3L of petrol in your fuel tank.

• Disconnect your battery. Tape terminals and leads.

• Have luggage carry clearly labelled – further instruction will be provided

• Leave motorbike unlocked and in neutral.

• Key will be required – instruction will be given. We must be able to open the seat for inspection.

19. Cargo considered for the shipment include:

The Client can ONLY include items related specifically to their Journey, which includes:

• Motorbike (privately owned)

• Critical tools, spares and consumables (NO OILS) specific to the motorbike;

  • NO spare tyres

• Owner’s 'Riding Gear': boots, helmet, jacket, pants, gloves

• Luggage System: tank bag, panniers (soft or hard), duffel, top box

• 'Expedition Materials’, including ‘Camping Equipment’ and limited ‘Personal Effects’.

20. Data Privacy

We take your privacy seriously. Personal data provided will be used solely for the purpose of shipping and compliance with international and customs regulations. The SMP securely stores data and documents - and will not be shared with third parties, except as necessary for the provision of services e.g. Customs Brokerage services.

The Organiser is very mindful of the fact that the two critical documents handled are copies of your passport and driver license. The SMP will permanently delete all Client data and documents 90 days post completion of a Shipment. The Organiser will retain Client contact details on another secure platform.

Clients should ensure that they save everything they upload to the SMP because it's all relevant to other aspects of their Journey. Clients should save to both personal cloud storage and onboard USB.