Terms and Conditions

By paying a deposit you agree to these Terms and Conditions (effective from Fri 08 May 2026), which apply to all shipment bookings made with Own Bike Odyssey (ABN 38 584 959 294).

There are three fundamentals to the relationship between the Organiser and the Client: transparency, communication and trust. These Terms and Conditions are not a bunch of legal mumbo jumbo that add no value; they are sincere in provision of transparency to how the Service works. They also set clear expectations of the Client. You must READ! Transparency fails if you do not READ.

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 Riders outbound from Australia, 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; greater security; lower handling risks; better assurances of costs; and far far far superior reliability with respect to export / import processes AND timings in general.

Less-than-Container Load (LCL) and Non Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) Services

NVOCC Services are an essential part of ocean freight logistics. NVOCC providers do not own vessels but instead lease space from shipping lines and sell it to shippers. LCL will be subject to consolidation and deconsolidation with Freight All Kinds (FAK) in NVOCC warehouses, which exposes the Motorbike LCL shipment to numerous potential issues. Riders consistently get burnt by this type of shipment with consequences being quite severe with respect to final all-inclusive cost and timely collection of their Motorbike at the Destination.

Riders must appreciate that with few exceptions, OBO will not use Less-than-Container-Load (LCL) due to the higher risk nature of this type of shipment. This is a harsh but important aspect of the Service that Riders must understand: when the FCL is full of Clients who have paid their Deposits to participate in the Service then OBO is no longer able to assist other Riders who have not paid their deposit. The Service is very much 'first in - first serve - then closed'. OBO will consider additional FCLs on a case-by-case basis pending volume of requests by other Riders.

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 '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 Brokerage 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. Critical to the Service is the organisation of Agents at both Origin and Destination. Critical Tasks must be completed before and during Origin export processes in order to ensure smooth Destination import processes.

the 'Client, Owner and Rider' are the same person

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 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' may relate 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. For the purpose of these Terms and Conditions, the term Motorbike is defined as this specific 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 IFF Agent. 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)

HBLs are the shipping documents issued by the IFF Agent to the Owners via the Organiser. 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 Destinations.

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 ensures 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. Ultimately the Independent Moto Overlander manages their own route planning, overlanding logistics, navigation, maintenance AND SAFETY without a support crew. The Service is very much tailored for this type of Rider. 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 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 to backup all of this critical 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 their 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 any 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 (Kazakhstan - Uzbekistan) closed 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 staff performing manual data entry.

When considering 'Tech Help' the Client should also consider their 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 an opportunity to get an Emergency Contact familiarised with your Journey during the 7Ps.

4. Client's 'Tasks'

The Client's Tasks are clearly defined in the SMP. The Tasks clearly define what is required from the Client throughout the Service. It is the Client's responsibility to complete their Tasks by their due dates. The Client is also required to read their Tasks before paying their deposit.

Critical Tasks initially include the completion of Client and Motorbike profiles, which involves: data entry, upload of critical documents, upload of Motorbike photos, etc. Tasks downstream include delivery of Motorbike, presenting to specific locations for Customs process, etc.

It may not be possible for the Organiser to execute the Service for a Client if they fail to complete their Tasks by their due dates. Depending on the Task, failure to complete a Task by the due date can be considered as resignation from the Service by the Client.

Should one Client fail in the completion of a Task AND that failure puts the timely process and delivery of other Motorbikes at risk, then the individual Client's Motorbike will be managed separately from the FCL shipment. Failure can include packing prohibited items with the Motorbike. Best efforts will still be made to assist the individual Client BUT any additional costs incurred will be at that Client's expense. This is another very important reason why all Motorbikes have their own HBL - no Client's failure can risk the timely delivery of other Clients' Motorbikes .

Tasks that are Journey critical are also included even if they are not required for the Service. The SMP will identify these Tasks as 'not required' for the Service. For example, if riding from Italy to Malaysia with a route through Russia from Georgia to Kazakhstan then a Russian Tourist Visa should be obtained from the Rider's home country. Another example is that a Task will still provide information for Third Party Liability Insurance even if it's not required for the import process at the Destination.

5. Valid Documentation

The SMP's Tasks clearly defines documentation required. Examples of critical documentation include (but are 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' (safety check) to renew registration each year. If your Motorbike requires Registration renewal while overseas then ensure that you have arrangements prepared.

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 to the Origin Country, whether that temporary import was by land, sea or air. 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. Where Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) is used then a valid CPD is required.

Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD)

Read Article: Carnet de Passages en Douane for detailed information. With respect to the Service, a valid CPD is required for:

• Malaysia

• South Africa

• Italy (import only)

• Vancouver (import only)

• Australia for non-Australian registered motorbikes

  • Australian registered motorbikes can also use CPD but not required

6. Motorbike Transport Method

The transport method will be detailed in the SMP. Read Article Motorbike Transport Method. There are FOUR possible motorbike transport methods:

1. OBO's specialised Motorbike Transport Stillages (MTS);

2. group pallets e.g. multiple Motorbikes secured to a car pallet;

3. individual 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 MTSs. 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.

7. Motorbike Dimensions

Motorbike dimensions must be provided as requested in the SMP's Tasks. This is critical to the plan for the container pack. Dimensions include: weight, length, length with rear luggage rack removed, width at handlebars, width without handlebars and heights.

Motorbikes longer than 2300mm

A shipping container's door opening is 2340mm wide and internal dimension is 2350mm wide.

Transport Method 1) can accommodate nearly all types of Motorbikes longer than 2300 with the removal of the front wheel and capture of the front axle in diameter specific nylon bushing.

Transport Method 2) can accommodate Motorbikes up to ~2600 because Motorbikes' are secured with their length same direction as length of container.

Transport Method 3) the Motorbikes' are secured with their length same direction as width of container so Motorbikes must be maximum 2300.

Transport Method 4) the Motorbikes' front wheel can be captured in a 'wall well' of the container, which gives a little extra length. Motorbikes must be maximum 2350.

8. 'Schedule' and 'Buffer'

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

1) Vessel Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) from the origin port; and
2) Vessel Estimated Time of Arrival (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 of a typical Schedule structure:

• Free storage period at Origin Depot for motorbike delivery - minimum 14 days

• 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 generally '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.

9. 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 remaining of 70% 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 ETD.

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.

Payment instructions are provided in the SMP for Motorbike storage periods beyond the free period.

10. 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.

11. 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 priority. 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 and managed on a case-by-case basis. 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.

12. Price Increase

The Organiser absorbs the minor cost increases that occur over the period of time from advertising a shipment to completion of the shipment. There are many various operational costs involved in the execution of the Service and the above mentioned time period can be up to a year. A lot can happen to regional trade economics over the course of a year. Should there be a significant increase in cost to execute the Service then the Organiser has the right to increase the price of the Service only by the amount that the operational cost/s have increased. Clients will be notified about the price increase and the reasons BEFORE booking with the shipping line. At 4 months before ETD the Organiser can be reasonably confident of proceeding with no price increase given the booking with the shipping line will be made 2 to 3 months later.

13. 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;

14. 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.

15. Exclusions

• Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) (if required)

• Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance (optional) 

• Third Party Insurance for destination country (compulsory) 

• Personal Travel Insurance (compulsory)

• International Driving Permit (compulsory)

• Random dockside inspection by local Customs Authority

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

• Additional Biosecurity Charges beyond Initial Inspection

16. Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance policies apply to the sea freight phase and 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. With your permission, the Organiser can send your details to their recommended insurance broker, who will arrange a Single Transit Marine Cargo Insurance Policy for you. Further Marine Cargo Insurance information will be supplied once requested in the SMP's Tasks, which involves ticking a 'Yes' box. 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. 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

17. 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. The Australia system 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.

18. 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. General Advice will be provided.

19. International Driving Permit (IDP)

An IDP is a translation of your valid Australian driver license in nine languages and is generally required for riding overseas. 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. While not strictly enforced in all countries, it can be required for renting a car, by insurance companies and if stopped by local police. Ensure you get the thing to avoid any hassle down the track.

20. Random dockside inspection by local Customs Authority

Customs Authorities can impose various additional random inspections at their own discretion. This is a very rare but possible scenario for the Service. Any additional charges related to this scenario are NOT included in the Service. These charges will be invoiced to the Motorbike Owners of that specific FCL on a pro-rated basis and the Client agrees to pay these charges before collecting their Motorbike. For example, if the additional charges are AU$1,000 between x10 Motorbikes then Clients would need to pay additional AU$100 each.

21. 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.

22. Additional Biosecurity Charges beyond Initial Inspection

The Service's all-inclusive rate includes Biosecurity fees, which consist of booking and inspection fees. Should a Client's Motorbike fail the inspection then subsequent fees related to Biosecurity are at the Client's expense. Subsequent fees include: Direction to Wash, booking and inspection fees.

23. 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.

24. 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’.

25. 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 mindful of the fact that the two critical documents handled are copies of the Client's 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.