You know, I don't think this thing should be that much of a pain for anybody. I was thinking that one person be designated "per group" to pick up and distribute them. The HD can have one person, LA another, etc. Joe Blow picks them up, then they are distributed at the next club meeting of Joe's.
Although he was kind enough to offer to ship, I personally would like to limit his investment of time into this. If I have to drive down and pick them up for my group, then so be it. AFAIC, that's what people in a community do... They help each other out.
I think that asking this much of him is taking advantage of his generosity, whether he seems willing to do it or not.
Just my 2c...