The decision to move Coastal Shipping from Boothbay Harbor to Edgecomb was not made lightly by owners Mike and Jennifer Elkins.

“Coastal Shipping has been in the harbor for more than 20 years,” Mike said.

“And we’ve owned it there since 2015,” Jennifer said.

But when their three-year lease on Todd Avenue expired, the Elkins knew it was time to move on. “I looked all over Boothbay Harbor for alternative premises but there was nothing available,” Mike said.

They already owned the building at 679 Boothbay Road (Route 27) in Edgecomb. “We bought it in 2003 and rebuilt it in 2005,” said Jennifer. “It’s been our family home since then, but the kids have gone off to school and it’s a large house so it made sense to move Coastal Shipping here.”

The site, midway between Route 1 and Boothbay Common, is ideally placed for peninsular and harbor customers traveling to and from work and for businesses across Edgecomb and Boothbay. Mike recognizes it’s a bit less convenient for their Harbor customers, but he has plans he thinks will help.

Plans call for a delivery van and courier service. “If you really can’t get here or you have a lot to ship, we’ll come to you and collect for a small fee. Plus we’ll have a regular run a couple of times a week. We have some really good commercial customers in the Harbor and we want to make it as easy as possible for them.”

The building, once the Edgecomb post office and general store, is plenty big enough for Coastal Shipping’s needs. The Elkins will also be showcasing their other business, Elkins & Co.

“I’ve built furniture through Elkins & Co. for 30 years,” said Mike. “Jennifer’s a decorative painter and does the finishing work.” He said the move has allowed them to provide more through Coastal Shipping and have a gallery space for the furniture. “We’ve never had that before.”

Coastal Shipping will now have more merchandise, including mailboxes, packing supplies, phone chargers, ear buds, and candles. Plus, the Elkins are looking forward to seeing old and new customers. “We get people who come back every year,” said Jennifer. “They come for the summer, buy things here and ship them home for gifts. They become old friends. Some bring cookies, for Mike anyway!”

Mike said unlike some businesses, theirs doesn’t charge to tape up a box. “If I treat you well, hopefully you’ll come back. Regulars will leave me their item and just have me call them when it’s ready to ship. I love hearing how much the people from away love our area, and I love making things just a little easier for the people who live here year round.”

Coastal Shipping and Elkins & Co. are open 9 a.m–5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday.