LET'S TALK ABOUT SHIPPING

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The ELF is an awkward configuration in that it's dimensions are 49" wide X 61" high X 107" long. The width is from the front fenders; however, the fenders can be removed!   When fenders are removed, then the width from the outside tire rims is 45.5".  Also the ELF is very light at 170 pounds and ideally should be shipped in an enclosed truck so the winds don't make it jump around, scratching, cracking and possibly pulling it lose from the straps.  I have known of owners shipping their ELFs in the open truck bed. it's a good idea to take electrical tape and make 2 or 3 X's with the tape  continuing it into the ELF for securing the front and back windows.   

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(Note)  The shortage of shippers has caused erratic service conditions.  If possible it's best to make your own pickup.

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It's quite easy  to rent an enclosed truck from Penske, U Haul (6x12') and lift the back end of the ELF into cargo area because most trucks provide ramps for two wheels.  So one must support that back third wheel while loading.  This is the reason a typical car moving truck doesn't work, along with it being open.  a small enclosed cargo trailer works well too. 

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Lastly, some open pickup beds are wide enough.  It's the wheel welds that's usually the problem.  If need be, you can unbolt the front fenders to accommodate the width.  It's wise not to travel any faster than 50-55 mph in an open truck.  Also load your ELF rear end first so front window won't blow out..  As an extra precautionj, you can use electrical tape on the front and back windows, making 2 or 3 'X's'.  Then wrap the tape into the ELF for securing it.

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The simplest method is to just hire a shipper who HAS HANDLED ELFS!  I recommend Jody Gladstone who I used at Organic transit.  He WAS PROPERLY INSURED AND LICENSED.   Jody is out of South Carolina near the North Carolina border and ships all over the U.S.   MY RECENT CONVERSATION YIELDED THE FOLLOWING information:

Jody Gladstone         cell (803) 517-9563           email  jodygladstone@hotmail.com

Estimated pricing: $1.50 - $2..50 /mile depending on route and other

items in shipment.  

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Here's a shipper who will go anywhere for the money: 

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BillieJo Transportation - Brian.  410 708 6836 Email: billiejotransportation@gmail.com -out of Maryland.   Enclosed trailer   Pricing .85-90 cents/mile; W. Coast more like $1.25/mile. 

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Another shipper who runs up and down the E. Coast is Churchtown Services, Chadd Mowrey out of Beverly Hills,  FL.     610 823 8063   chaddmowrey@gmail.com

 

This shipper is is out of OH and averages $1.25-$1.35 per mile.  His main route preference is middle of the U.S. and up to New England.  you can contact him directly or use him on U-Ship where you can purchase cargo insurance.   Paul Lockhart   (315) 271-1681  Email: palock76@yahoo.com 

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As of Sept. '22    -     This shipper is available to transport an ELF  From a little West of I81 to the anywhere up and down the east coast.  Minimum is around $500-600.      Jake Ship East Coast, Ihaulit.com   617-302-6353

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aS OF oCT. 22 - Based out of Missouri  offering 24''enclosed trailer and large van.  Varied routes /

SMART Service LLC, Gary Park, (314) 315-7813  Email:  parkgtech.@yahoo.com

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 U-Ship or Shipley offers competitive bid transportation by independent truckers.  By the way, there's a shortage of truck drivers these days.  You fill out a form online , add photos, and then start receiving bids.  Not until you accept a bid, do you get to talk to the shipper.  but can email back and forth. There is a modest fee. sometimes built into the quote. Caveats are to make sure they are properly insured for liability AND also the cost of the cargo.  A lowboy enclosed truck or one with a lift are ideal.  Most of these shippers transport cars so they are not a good fit because these trucks are open and can't accommodate the 3rd wheel.  Here's what I've used in my bids:

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        ELF Moped 170 lb. Trike

       49"W x 61"H x 107"L; 170 lbs. trike rolls easily

        enclosed Trailer with preferably no more than one off-load.  If you can't find a category on the 

        the form, then ''LTL" (less than truckload) would be an option. 

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