By paying a deposit you agree to these Terms and Conditions (effective from Thu 08 October 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 sincerely provide transparency about how the Service works. They also set clear expectations for the Client. Transparency fails if you do not read.
Contents
1. Defined Terms
the ‘Organiser’
Own Bike Odyssey (OBO) is ‘the Organiser’ of ‘the Service’.
the ‘Service’
OBO consolidates motorcycles at depots and ships Full Container Loads (FCLs) to strategic destinations at ideal times dictated by season. 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 provide streamlined depot-to-depot motorcycle logistics tailored for ‘Independent Moto Overlanders’.
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’ Motorcycles. 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 Motorcycle 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 Motorcycle 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, OBO is no longer able to assist other Riders who have not paid their Deposit. The Service is very much ‘first come, first served, then closed’. OBO will consider additional FCLs on a case-by-case basis, subject to demand from other Riders.
the ‘Country Motorcycle Shipping Page’
The Motorcycle Shipping page lists shipments and links to each Country Motorcycle Shipping Page. These pages explain depot-specific import and export processes, example shipment timings and the overland routes those timings support. The Client must read the pages for their origin and destination countries before paying a deposit so they understand the depot- and country-specific details of their shipment.
the ‘Depots’
The Depots are secure storage facilities used as both: 1) Origins for delivery and consolidation of motorcycles; and 2) Destinations for collection of motorcycles. Depot arrangements vary by location and are explained on the relevant Country page and in the shipment-specific instructions provided by OBO.
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 motorcycles 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 Motorcycle and also the Rider of the Motorcycle 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 ‘Motorcycle’ for touring purpose
The Service is specifically tailored for privately owned used Motorcycles shipped for the Owner’s touring purpose. The Service accommodates Australian-registered and non-Australian-registered Motorcycles used for touring. Very specific processes apply to this type of shipment. For these Terms and Conditions, the defined term ‘Motorcycle’ means this specific type of Motorcycle.
Motorcycles NOT for touring purpose
The Client must disclose to the Organiser if their motorcycle is NOT for touring purpose because it will require different processes (if even possible). Motorcycles 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 Motorcycle and Owner. HBLs provide the Service with a great deal of flexibility and are critical to specific Import processes used at Destinations.
For FCL shipments, many freight forwarders will attempt not to use HBLs because each HBL and the associated per-HBL processes incur additional costs. However, the Service ensures that each Motorcycle has its own HBL and that each Owner receives their 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 Motorcycle is a means for cultural exploration and experiencing the world’s ethereal landscapes. The Motorcycle 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. Secure Shared Google Drive Folder
The Client must be able to access the secure shared Google Drive folder provided by OBO, read its instructions and upload the requested information, documents and motorcycle photographs by their due dates.
Most of the documents required for the shipment will also be required for the Rider’s Journey. Once the shipment is complete and OBO no longer needs the folder, OBO will notify the Client before removing access so they can save the documents they need to their own cloud storage.
If ‘Tech Help’ is required to use Google Drive then the Client should consider their Emergency Contacts. Every Rider should have TWO Emergency Contacts for their Journey. Ideally ‘Tech Help’ is also an Emergency Contact. This is an opportunity to get an Emergency Contact familiarised with your Journey during the 7Ps.
4. Communication
After the Client pays their Deposit, OBO will use a dedicated email thread for that shipment to communicate required actions and due dates, shipment updates and relevant General Advice for the Rider’s Journey. The Client should reply in that thread for shipment-related questions and updates so both parties have one searchable record. Documents requested for upload must be provided through the secure shared Google Drive folder in accordance with OBO’s instructions.
5. Client’s Tasks
OBO will communicate which actions are required for the shipment and when each action is due. Initial Tasks involve uploading critical documents and photos to the Client’s secure shared folder.
Critical tasks required to be completed for specific components of the Rider’s wider journey may also be provided, but it will be identified separately from actions required for OBO’s shipment service.
6. Failure to Complete a Task
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 or as per instruction 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 Motorcycles at risk, then the individual Client’s Motorcycle will be managed separately from the FCL shipment. Failure can include packing prohibited items with the Motorcycle. 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 Motorcycles have their own HBL - no Client’s failure can risk the timely delivery of other Clients’ Motorcycles.
7. Valid Documentation
OBO’s shipment-specific written instructions will identify the documentation required from the Client. The Client must check that the VIN and engine number supplied from their Motorcycle Registration Certificate match their photographs of those numbers on the Motorcycle. Examples of critical documentation include (but are not limited to):
Registration Certificate
Your motorcycle registration must remain current for the duration your motorcycle is overseas from it’s home country. This is a requirement for all shipments. Be aware that New South Wales registered motorcycles 5 years or older require a ‘pink slip’ (safety check) to renew registration each year. If your Motorcycle requires Registration renewal while overseas then ensure that you have arrangements prepared.
Import documentation for motorcycles not in their home country
Unless you’re shipping from your home country, you must provide valid documentation for your motorcycle’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
India
Japan
South Africa
Australia for non-Australian registered motorcycles
Australian registered motorcycles can also use CPD but not required
8. Motorcycle Transport Method
There are four possible motorcycle transport methods:
OBO Specialised Motorcycle Transport Frames;
group pallets e.g. multiple Motorcycles secured to a car pallet;
individual pallets; or
lashed directly to shipping container’s lashing points.
As of 2026 OBO is in a ramp up phase investing heavily in the manufacture of OBO Specialised Motorcycle Transport Frames. OBO intends to provide for the use of these frames in all shipments but there are cases where this may not be possible, particularly during ramp up as frames are still being built.
9. Motorcycle Dimensions
Motorcycle dimensions must be provided as per instruction. This is critical to the container pack plan.
Motorcycles 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 Motorcycles longer than 2,300 mm by removing the front wheel and capturing the front axle in a diameter-specific nylon bushing.
Transport Method 2 can accommodate all types of motorcycles longer than 2,300 mm because the motorcycles are secured lengthways in the container.
For Transport Method 3, Motorcycles are secured across the width of the container and must be no longer than 2,300 mm.
For Transport Method 4, the Motorcycle’s front wheel can be captured in a wall well of the container, providing a small amount of additional length. Motorcycles must be no longer than 2,350 mm.
10. ‘Schedule’ and ‘Buffer’
The operation’s Schedule depends on TWO KEY DATES determined by the shipping line:
Vessel Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) from the origin port; and
Vessel Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) at the destination port.
The two dates shown for a shipment on OBO’s website and in advertising are:
the estimated container pack date at Origin; and
the estimated date motorcycles will be ready for collection at Destination, which includes an operating buffer period.
Three months before the vessel’s Estimated Time of Departure, OBO reviews the current shipping-line schedule and confirms the shipment’s major timings. The shipping-line services used tend to operate weekly, so the overall timing is unlikely to move significantly. The update mainly accounts for how the exact sailing dates fall around weekends and allows OBO to define the precise container pack date and, therefore, the motorcycle delivery cut-off date.
Buffer
An operating buffer period, dependent on the intricacies of the specific shipment, is added to the time at Destination. The following example is for Melbourne to Valparaíso:
8 days at Origin + 45 days port-to-port sea freight + 3 business days at Destination + 12 days operating buffer = 68 days.
No buffer days were required for the January 2026 Valparaíso shipment. Even so, OBO always recommends that riders use the buffer period rather than relying on earlier availability. Two weeks of free storage is provided at Valparaíso for that contingency.
11. 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 motorcycle 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. OBO will notify the Client in writing when the shipping-line booking is made and provide the balance amount, due date and payment instructions.
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.
OBO will provide the available payment methods and instructions with the invoice. The amount stated on the invoice is the amount that must reach OBO’s account. Any additional payment or transfer fees are at the Client’s expense.
OBO will provide payment instructions for motorcycle storage beyond the free period in writing.
12. 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.
13. Minimum Number of Clients
SMPs will generally specify 10 x Motorcycles 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 Motorcycles on multiple occasions.
If a shipment has onboarded less than the minimum number of Motorcycles 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.
14. 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 four 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 vicinity two months later.
15. 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;
16. Inclusions
Consolidation of motorcycles at depots
Container hire
Loading
Export Customs
Origin charges
Sea freight
Destination charges
Import customs
Biosecurity inspection; and
Clearly defined storage arrangements (costs excluded).
17. Exclusions
Storage costs paid directly by the Client to the storage owner, dependent on the period used by the Client.
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 Motorcycle Reimportation Approval (compulsory without valid CPD carnet)
If the Motorcycle fails its initial biosecurity inspection, any subsequent biosecurity fees are at the Client’s expense.
18. 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. The Client may ask OBO for further Marine Cargo Insurance information. Indicative costing for Australian motorcycles is in the vicinity of a $50 administration fee plus the total premium, which is dependent on valuation and shipment details. Indicative premiums range from approximately $110 for a $15,000 motorcycle 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 motorcycle; however:
IF YOU PROCEED WITHOUT INSURANCE THEN YOU WILL BE SHIPPING AT YOUR OWN RISK
19. Third-Party Liability Insurance
OBO will provide available destination-specific Third-Party Liability Insurance information on the relevant Country page or in shipment-specific written instructions. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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.
22. 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 Motorcycle Owners of that specific FCL on a pro-rated basis and the Client agrees to pay these charges before collecting their Motorcycle. For example, if the additional charges are AU$1,000 between x10 Motorcycles then Clients would need to pay additional AU$100 each.
23. Australia’s Motorcycle Reimportation Approval
Clients with Australian-registered motorcycles must read Article: Australian Motorcycle Reimportation Approval. Tasks 1 to 2 are free to complete and should be completed by the Client before they leave Australia in the first place. Task 3 is simply saving proof of export. The Client can then complete Task 4 (application for reimportation approval) when their motorcycle is overseas. Task 4 will cost vicinity AU$40. These Tasks are basic and quick for the Client to complete.
24. 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 Motorcycle 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.
25. Delivering Your Motorcycle to the Depot Ready for Shipping
OBO’s shipment-specific written instructions will set out the requirements and due date for delivering the Motorcycle to the Origin Depot. As a general guide:
Your motorcycle must be clean – read Article: Cleaning Your Motorcycle.
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.
Leave motorcycle unlocked and in neutral.
Key will be required – instruction will be given. We must be able to open the seat for inspection.
26. Cargo Considered for the Shipment
The cargo permitted varies by shipment. OBO will confirm which of the three scenarios below applies before the Client pays a deposit.
Cargo definitions
Motorcycle: a privately owned, used motorcycle shipped for its Owner’s touring purpose.
TSCs: tools, spares and consumables specific to the Motorcycle, stowed on or attached to it as part of its normal overlanding setup. For example, a PVC tool tube fixed to the bike filled with TSCs. Oils and spare tyres are prohibited.
Luggage System: the bags and storage equipment carried on the Motorcycle, such as panniers, a top box, tank bag, duffel or rackless luggage system.
Riding Gear: the Owner’s helmet, boots, jacket, pants and gloves.
Luggage: expedition materials, camping equipment and limited personal effects that the Rider would normally carry on the Motorcycle during a remote overland journey. Gifts and other belongings outside that normal riding setup are prohibited.
Permitted cargo scenarios
Motorcycle and TSCs only. An EMPTY Luggage System may remain attached to the Motorcycle. Riding Gear and Luggage are not permitted.
Motorcycle, TSCs and Riding Gear. An EMPTY Luggage System may remain attached to the Motorcycle. Riding Gear must be secured to the Motorcycle as instructed by OBO. Other Luggage is not permitted.
Motorcycle, TSCs and up to four items of Luggage. The Luggage System may contain permitted Luggage. For example, the four items could be a left pannier, right pannier, duffel or top box, and a bag containing Riding Gear. OBO will specify the packing and labelling requirements for the shipment.
27. 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. OBO stores the Client’s requested documents in a secure shared Google Drive folder and will share them with third parties only as necessary for the provision of the Service, such as 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. Once the Shipment is complete and OBO no longer needs the folder, OBO will notify the Client before removing access so they can save the documents they need to their own cloud storage. OBO retains Client contact details and necessary business records in its secure systems.