Shipping Wine & Spirits
Discover a wide variety of shipping solutions for wine and spirits
From vineyards and distilleries to retail shelves and private events, FreightCenter delivers professional freight solutions for alcohol shipping. Get the temperature control, packaging support, and carrier compliance you need without the hassle.
Explore Related Shipping Options:
Shipping Beverages Sipping Brewery Systems Shipping Meats & Cheeses
Shipping wine and spirits can be a delicate and complex process. With regulations, packaging requirements, and the need to ensure these delicate products’ safe and secure transportation, it’s important to understand the process thoroughly. Whether shipping high-value wine for your restaurant or spirits for your store, these products require temperature-controlled environments and specialized handling every step of the way.
FreightCenter understands the complexity around shipping wine and spirits, with our expertise, extensive carrier network, exceptional customer support, and dependable delivery services, you can trust that your wine and spirits shipment will be handled with precision and care to make it safely and efficiently to their destination.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose FreightCenter for Your Wine and Spirits Shipping Needs?
Expertise in Bulk Shipping Services
Are you a business that needs to ship wine and spirits in bulk? No problem. We are an expert in bulk shipping services, offering customized solutions that meet your unique needs when shipping large quantities of alcohol. We understand the complexity of managing high-volume shipments, including route optimization, handling, and the coordination of loading and unloading fragile wine and spirits bottles. With FreightCenter, businesses can rely on seamless, customized solutions to handle their bulk shipping needs with expertise and precision.
Compliance with Regulations
FreightCenter is committed to compliance with all regulations when it comes to shipping wine and spirits. We ensure that every shipment meets the necessary legal and safety requirements needed for a successful shipment. As a licensed and experienced freight broker, we work closely with trusted carriers that are well-versed in alcohol shipping laws at both the state and federal level. We will ensure that your shipment is ready to go by providing reliable and legal solutions for shipping wine and spirits, both domestically and internationally.
Exceptional Customer Support
Shipping wine and spirits can sometimes be a complicated and long process. Our expert freight agents and customer care agents are here to help you through every step of the shipping process – from pickup to delivery. Whether you have a simple, straightforward question or whether you’re handling a complex shipment, our exceptional customer support is available to assist you to ensure your shipment is stress-free and successful.
Optimal Transportation Options For Shipping Wine & Spirits
To ensure the quality of the wine and spirits you’re shipping, it’s crucial to choose the transportation method that works best for your needs. FreightCenter offers a vast range of transportation methods that keep your wine and spirits well-protected, cold, and in optimal condition for successful delivery. Before deciding which transportation method to ship your alcohol by, you should take into account factors such as distance, transit time, temperature control, regulatory compliance, packaging requirements, and cost. Several transportation methods are available for shipping wine and spirits through FreightCenter, each with its own advantages.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL): Using Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping for wine and spirits with FreightCenter offers a cost-effective and efficient option for customers looking to ship smaller quantities of alcohol. LTL allows you to share truck space with other shipments, reducing shipping costs while also ensuring the timely and safe delivery of your wine and spirits.
Truckload (FTL): Shipping larger quantities of wine and spirits that aren’t suitable for less-than-truckload. Truckload shipping services are perfect for you. Truckload shipping involves dedicating an entire truck to your shipment, minimizing the handling and reducing the risk of any damage because the truck has one destination – yours. We work with reliable carriers who specialize in the transportation of alcohol, ensuring compliance and proper packaging. With Truckload, your wine and spirits will arrive quickly and safely.
Temperature-Controlled Services: Wine is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Shipping wine requires maintaining an optimal temperature range, typically between 45 degrees Fahrenheit and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If the wine is not properly refrigerated, its taste can change or spoil. We offer temperature-controlled services for your wine and spirit shipments. Through refrigerated trucks, containers, and other temperature-controlled packaging techniques, we will ensure your wine and spirits shipment arrives in optimal condition for the best serving and tasting.
White Glove Services: High-end wine and rare spirits require added security that includes tracking, insurance, and extra care with handling. Our white glove services provide end-to-end assistance, specialized packaging, and even inside delivery if needed. We ensure your shipment receives the highest level of care throughout the entire shipping process so that it arrives in perfect condition. With white glove services, we deliver exceptional service and peace of mind for your high-value wine and spirits.
Expedited Services: If you are running on a tight schedule or need to get your shipment delivered in time for an event, expedited shipping can guarantee that your wine and spirits will reach their destination quickly. For wine that also requires temperature-controlled services, this might be the best option for you to ensure the product maintains its quality during transit. Dependable tracking is an added benefit to expedited shipping services, allowing for better visibility throughout the process.
Shipping wine, spirits, and alcohol products involves more than just moving bottles—it requires precision, compliance, and industry-specific care. At FreightCenter, we deliver customized freight solutions tailored to your needs, whether you're moving bulk wine from a vineyard, spirits from a distillery, or high-value inventory to a retail chain.
Here’s how we help streamline and safeguard your alcohol freight shipments:
If you ship large quantities of wine or spirits regularly, FreightCenter offers volume shipping discounts that help you scale while saving on costs. Our extensive network of alcohol-compliant carriers allows us to consolidate shipments, optimize freight lanes, and lower your price per pallet—without compromising delivery timelines or cargo integrity.
Wine and spirits are high-value and highly sensitive to handling, making freight insurance essential. FreightCenter offers insurance coverage designed to protect your cargo against damage, spoilage, or loss. From vintage wine shipments to limited-edition spirits, we help ensure your investment is covered from pickup to delivery.
Accurate freight classification matters when shipping cases or pallets of alcohol. Use FreightCenter’s Freight Class Calculator to determine the correct freight class based on bottle count, packaging method (crated, boxed, palletized), and total weight. We help you avoid misclassification charges and get accurate quotes upfront.
Visibility is key when shipping regulated, high-value cargo. FreightCenter’s tracking tools give you full access to the location and status of your wine and spirits shipments in real-time. From warehouse departures to delivery confirmations, you’ll stay informed and confident every step of the way.
How to Properly Prepare Your Wine and Spirits Shipment
Here at FreightCenter, assisting you in properly preparing your wine and spirits for a successful shipment and delivery is one of our top priorities. When shipping alcohol, there are several key considerations to keep in mind.
Legal Compliance: It’s crucial to understand and comply with local, state, and international regulations regarding the shipment of alcohol. This includes obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, such as an Importer’s Basic Permit, and ensuring that your shipment meets the guidelines of the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). Different regions may have varying rules and restrictions, so research and careful planning with FreightCenter are necessary to ensure proper compliance.
Packaging Requirements: Wine and spirits require special packaging to prevent breakage or leakage of any kind during transit. We will assist you in ensuring that your wine and spirits are packaged correctly with the right materials.
- Styrofoam inserts and molded pulp trays should be used to protect individual bottles.
- The packaged bottles should be placed in a sturdy outer box and use cushioning materials, such as foam peanuts or bubble wrap to prevent any movement.
- Utilize bottle sleeves or dividers to provide extra protection and to prevent any damage from contact between bottles.
- For larger or bulk shipments of wine and spirits, a pallet may be required to provide more safety and stability to the package.
Labeling: Clearly label your packages to help ensure that the shipment receives the necessary care and attention it needs throughout the entire shipping process. Labeling the outside of the box with “Fragile”, “This Side Up”, or “Handle with Care” can ensure the proper handling of the wine and spirits.
Insurance Coverage: Wine and spirits are valuable products, and having appropriate insurance coverage is essential to protect against loss or damage during shipping. Work with your shipping provider to ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage to safeguard your shipment. This will provide peace of mind in case of any unforeseen circumstances during transit.
Things to Know Before You Ship Alcohol
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Not all carriers ship alcohol. FreightCenter matches you with those that do.
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Shipping wine to consumers (DTC) may be limited based on state laws—we can help clarify.
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International alcohol shipping may require additional customs paperwork and tax documentation.
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Warehouse delivery appointments are often required—we coordinate them for you.
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Insurance is strongly recommended, especially for aged or limited-run products.
How Much Does it Cost to Ship Wine & Spirits With FreightCenter?
The cost of shipping wine and spirits can vary depending on several factors, such as the distance of the shipment, the type of dairy products being shipped, the shipping method, and any additional services required. Additionally, shipping costs may change over time due to fluctuations in fuel prices and other factors. To obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific cost of shipping wine and spirits. It is recommended to contact a freight broker, like FreightCenter, directly to provide detailed quotes based on your particular requirements and circumstances. Information about the shipment’s weight, dimensions, origin, and destination will help obtain more accurate cost estimates.
Who We Ship Wine For
FreightCenter works with:
Wineries and Vineyards ship pallets of bottled wine to retail and hospitality.
Distilleries distribute spirits to wholesalers or regional warehouses.
Alcohol distributors coordinating multi-stop deliveries to bars and restaurants.
Retailers and eCommerce alcohol sellers shipping directly to consumers (where legal).
Event companies and catering suppliers moving alcohol in bulk for large-scale occasions.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Get a Quote for Shipping Wine & Spirits
Here at FreightCenter, we understand the importance of safely and securely getting your wine and spirits to restaurants, bars, and stores in a timely manner. We offer specialized shipping solutions to guarantee that your wine and spirits are properly packaged, shipped, and successfully delivered to their destination.
With 25+ years in the business, we work with reputable carriers that have the knowledge and expertise of what it takes to ship high-value, delicate goods. We prioritize pairing high-quality customer service with affordable shipping options. We offer competitive rates from top carriers so that you receive the services you need at the price you want. To figure out which shipping option is best for you and your wine and spirits shipment, call our expert freight agents today at (800)716-7608.
FAQ: Shipping Wine & Spirits
Q. How do I ship wine and spirits with FreightCenter?
To ship wine and spirits with FreightCenter, simply visit their website, select the appropriate freight service, and provide details about your shipment, including the destination, weight, and dimensions of your package.
Q. Can I ship wine and spirits internationally with FreightCenter?
Yes, FreightCenter offers international shipping options for wine and spirits, but there are additional regulations and paperwork required. The destination country must allow alcohol imports, and the shipment must comply with both U.S. export laws and the regulations of the destination country.
Q. Are there any restrictions on shipping alcohol with FreightCenter?
Yes, there are restrictions on shipping alcohol with FreightCenter. The shipment must be made by a licensed shipper, the recipient must be of legal drinking age, you must have all the proper documentation and permits, and alcohol shipment may only be made during certain hours or days depending on local laws.
Q. How much does it cost to ship wine or spirits with FreightCenter?
The cost of shipping wine or spirits through FreightCenter depends on several factors, including the size and weight of the shipment, the delivery distance, and the selected service level. We offer competitive rates for wine and spirit shipments.
Q. How do I track my wine and spirits shipment?
You can track your shipment with the tracking number that you will receive after your package is dispatched. You can track your package on FreightCenter’s website.
Q. What type of packaging is required for shipping wine or spirits?
To safely ship wine and spirits, FreightCenter recommends using specialized packaging designed for alcohol. This includes wine shipping boxes with dividers, bubble wrap, and other materials to prevent breakage.
Q. Can FreightCenter handle fragile alcohol shipments?
FreightCenter is experienced in handling fragile shipments, including wine and spirits. We offer specialized packaging solutions and work with dependable carriers to ensure that your alcohol shipment arrives safely.
Q. Is insurance required for shipping wine and spirits?
While it is not required, it is highly recommended. Insurance can protect your wine and spirits shipment from the rare occurrence of damage, loss, or theft while also giving you peace of mind that your shipment is safe.
Q. Can I ship large quantities of wine or spirits with FreightCenter?
Yes, FreightCenter offers bulk shipping options for large quantities of wine and spirits. If you are shipping a large volume, FreightCenter provides custom freight solutions to meet your specific needs.
Q. What is the minimum age to receive a wine or spirits shipment?
the recipient of any wine or spirits shipment must be at least 21 years old. FreightCenter requires proof of age upon delivery, and a signature from the recipient is mandatory. Shipments will not be released if the recipient is unable to provide valid identification or is underage.
Q. Are there any additional fees for shipping wine and spirits?
Additional fees may apply when shipping wine or spirits, depending on factors like the destination, weight, and size of the shipment, along with any special services that are needed. You can get an accurate estimate by requesting a quote.
Q. Does FreightCenter provide temperature-controlled shipping for wine?
Yes, we offer temperature-controlled shipping options for wine, especially for shipments that require consistent temperature condition. This is important for preserving the quality of your wine during transit, especially for long-distance or international shipments.
Q. How long does it take to ship wine or spirits?
Transit time varies based on the destination and service level selected for your wine and spirits shipment. Standard ground shipping takes 3-7 business days, but expedited shipping can shorten delivery times. For international shipments, it will depend on customs processing and the route.
Q. What do I need to know about shipping wine or spirits across state lines?
When shipping wine and spirits across state lines, your shipment must comply with federal and state regulations. Some states have specific laws governing alcohol shipments, like volume limits or restrictions on direct-to-consumer deliveries. FreightCenter can help you navigate the legal requirements and find the best solutions for you.
Q. Is there a weight limit for shipping wine and spirits with FreightCenter?
We allow shipping of wine and spirits in various quantities and weights, including bulk shipments. The weight limit depends on the specific shipping method and destination, but usually, alcohol shipment can weight up to 150 1bs or more. For bulk shipments, we can offer custom solutions.
Three Things You Didn't Know About Shipping Wine & Spirits
Wine Can Be Damaged by Light
UV light can damage wine, causing it to develop off-flavors. Wine is often packaged in secure shipping containers to block out light. FreightCenter offers proper packaging solutions to ensure your wine stays in optimal condition for consumption.
Shipping Alcohol Can Be a Long Process
Shipping win and spirits, especially internationally, can be a long process due to transport times, customs clearance, and other regulations. FreightCenter will walk you through every step of the process from pickup to delivery to give you a stress-free shipping experience.
Temperature Control is Crucial for Wine Shipments
Wine and other spirits are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and must maintain a certain temperature range. To ensure proper conditions, FreightCenter offers temperature-controlled services to ensure that your wine stays in pristine condition for delivery.
