During the shuttling, the DB24C8 macrocycle distorts assuming a clip-mode conformation in such a way as to promote π -π interactions between its rings with those of the axle (Fig. : points where d benz-benz decreases the number of DB24C8 • axle contacts increases). This result, which is also consistent with DFT calculations, demonstrates a step-wise diffusion of the macrocycle along the axle.