Tandem Cycling - shipping a tandem

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halfbiked
08-17-04, 04:06 PM
My girlfriend and I have almost decided to purchase a used tandem. We found a pretty good deal on a 2000 cannondale in colorado (we're in minnesota). The problem is, shipping will apparently run about $210 via UPS. Ouch. That really cuts into the cost savings we'd realize by buying used vs. new. Anyone know a good, economical shipping method?

p.s. thanks for all the other posts on selecting a tandem; this has been a helpful site (on which I've lurked for a couple weeks).

TandemGeek
08-17-04, 04:28 PM
Previous info may be of some value...

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=811&highlight=shipping+tandem

Danzas still seems to be one of the better "shipping" options, although I do believe the Santana "deal" may have vaporized for all but shipments in conjuction with their tours.

Have also heard quite a few success stories on the Greyhound option.

You might also want to drop an Email to my friend Alex at MTBTandems.com as he does 99% of his tandem sales long distance and is very familiar with what the current Danzas and similar shipper policies & rates are: Web site is www.MTBTandems.com & Email is Alex@MTBTandems.com
zonatandem
08-17-04, 09:02 PM
Have shipped Greyhound in the past but now Greyhound has cut stops/schedules. A trucking company could be a good bet. But yes, shipping costs. For $210 you could drive from MN to CO and pick it up yourself . . . or meet the seller half way?

Cycliste
08-17-04, 09:11 PM
If you know someone who has a business, get it shipped there or get it shipped to your place of work. Also try to get the seller to bring the tandem (pre-packed) to a UPS store or a Danzas location etc. instead of getting it picked up. Residential delivery and pick-ups almost double the shipping rates.
halfbiked
08-25-04, 12:15 PM
UPDATE. We've committed to the Cannondale. The Greyhound option is turning into a giant pain in the hind end; of particular concern is the $1000 insurance limit & the logistics of who makes the insurance claim if there is a problem. So we're going with UPS. Doing the suggested business - business shipping will save considerably on costs, about 40% off the initial quote.

We can't wait for that thing to get here!