Shipping Wine from Europe to US: A Step-by-Step Guide

Author

Reads 1.3K

Wine Tank Room
Credit: pexels.com, Wine Tank Room

Shipping wine from Europe to the US can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can navigate it successfully.

The first step is to research the regulations and laws surrounding wine importation in the US. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has specific guidelines for importing wine, including requirements for labeling and documentation.

To ensure compliance, you'll need to obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS, which is required for all wine importers. This number will be used to identify your business and facilitate the importation process.

The cost of shipping wine from Europe to the US can vary greatly, depending on the shipping method and carrier chosen. For example, using a courier service can be more expensive than using a freight forwarder, but it may also be faster and more reliable.

Shipping Wine from Europe to US

Shipping wine from Europe to the US can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got the lowdown.

A wooden crate filled with diverse wine bottles at an outdoor gathering.
Credit: pexels.com, A wooden crate filled with diverse wine bottles at an outdoor gathering.

If you're nervous about breaking bottles during travel, consider investing in reusable Wineskins, which can be bought at some wineries and wine shops for under 5 euros. They're a great way to protect your clothes and the wine.

The max allowance for alcohol in the US is 2 bottles of wine per person, but if you declare your wine, you can bring in as much as you like. The Customs tax on a bottle is around 1 dollar, but don't worry, nobody ever checks.

Shipping from Europe to the US can be expensive, with costs ranging from 10-12 euros per bottle for a dozen. However, this includes styrofoam shipping cases, Customs fees, and door-to-door delivery.

If you plan on bringing back multiple bottles, consider investing in a wine check luggage, like the one made by Lazenne, which is a one-time cost and can be reused again and again.

Packing and Shipping

You can ship wine from Europe to the US using a courier, but it's essential to pack the bottles properly to avoid damage. Wrap each wine bottle individually with bubble wrap to protect them during transit, and consider placing each bottle in a leak-proof plastic bag to prevent spillage.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Ship Wine Safely From Abroad: The Lazenne Wine Check

To pack wine bottles in a carton box, fill any empty space with cushioning material after placing the wrapped bottles inside. This will help prevent the bottles from moving around and getting damaged.

For businesses shipping wine, it's recommended to use a pallet delivery service with proper packaging, including liner paper between each layer to decrease friction and spread the weight evenly.

Here are some key considerations for shipping wine internationally:

  • Choose quality packaging materials to protect your wine bottles.
  • Pack wine bottles individually and in a carton box with cushioning material.
  • Use a pallet delivery service for businesses shipping wine.

Checked Baggage

You can pack wine in your checked baggage, but it's essential to use proper packaging material like Styrofoam wine shipping boxes. These boxes are a cost-effective option, with the extra "bag" of luggage costing $25-$50.

Shipping wine from abroad can be expensive, with costs ranging from $25-$50 for a checked bag to nearly $200 for shipping. We haven't had any issues clearing customs with our wine, but it's worth noting that one case per person is considered okay for personal use.

Wine in checked baggage is the least expensive option I've found, and it's a great way to save money on shipping costs.

Working with an Importer

Credit: youtube.com, What Is A Packing List In Import Processes? - BusinessGuide360.com

Working with an Importer can be a great option if you can't get your favorite wine home with you.

You can ask the winery for a list of importers in the United States and place an order directly with them.

Most wineries will happily provide you with this list.

You can also ask a wine store to place the order for you, but be aware that the price may be higher than buying the wine on your trip.

A $20 bottle of Brunello can cost $30-50 through an importer.

Packing Bottles for International Shipping

Packing bottles for international shipping can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered. First, choose quality packaging materials to protect your bottles during transit.

It's worth noting that most postal services and couriers don't recommend sending wine overseas, but if you're determined to ship wine internationally, you can still do it safely. To avoid potential damage, wrap each wine bottle individually with bubble wrap to protect them during transit.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Pack Liquid for Shipping - FedEx

You can also place each wine bottle in a leak-proof plastic bag to protect your package in case of spillage. This is especially important if you're shipping fragile items.

When packing wine bottles in a carton box, fill any empty space left with cushioning material. This will help prevent the bottles from moving around and getting damaged during transit.

If you're shipping wine using a pallet delivery service, you'll want to follow a slightly different packing process. First, place some liner paper on the pallet and put the boxes containing the wine bottles on it.

Add liner paper between each layer you stack to decrease friction and spread the weight evenly. This will help prevent the bottles from getting damaged or the pallet from collapsing.

Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind when packing wine bottles for international shipping:

  • Wrap each wine bottle individually with bubble wrap
  • Place each wine bottle in a leak-proof plastic bag
  • Fills empty space in the carton box with cushioning material
  • Add liner paper between each layer on the pallet

Specific Shipping Routes

Shipping wine from Europe to the US can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered. If you're nervous about breaking bottles, consider investing in Wineskins, which are reusable and can be found at some wineries and wine shops in Italy for less than 5 euros.

Credit: youtube.com, Cargo Wine shipping process

In Florence, you can find Wineskins at Formaggioteca Terroir. They're a great way to protect your clothes and your wine.

The US has a max allowance for alcohol, with 2 bottles of wine per person allowed duty-free. However, if you declare your wine, you can bring in as much as you like, and the Customs tax on a bottle is around 1 dollar.

Shipping from Italy to the US usually costs around 10-12 euros per bottle, with a per-bottle price increasing if you ship less than a dozen. For example, shipping a case of wine can cost around 120-150 euros, which includes styrofoam shipping cases, Customs fees, and door-to-door delivery.

If you plan on shipping wine regularly, consider investing in a wine check luggage, such as the one made by Lazenne, which is a one-time cost and can be reused.

Here's a rough estimate of shipping costs from Italy to the US:

General Information

Rustic wine cellar featuring wooden shelves filled with Chanson wine crates and vintage bottles.
Credit: pexels.com, Rustic wine cellar featuring wooden shelves filled with Chanson wine crates and vintage bottles.

In Italy, you can buy as many bottles of wine as you'd like from vineyards, but be aware that most can't ship it back to the States due to importing legalities.

You'll need to take the wine with you, but if you're questioned, just say it's for personal consumption.

In the US, you'll be charged a tax of about 20 cents per wine bottle, so it's a good idea to check any updates to US Customs regulations.

Most vineyards in Italy will sell you wine, but you can only take it with you, not have it shipped to your home in the States.

Darla Bartell

Senior Assigning Editor

Darla Bartell is a seasoned Assigning Editor with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling. With a background in research and journalism, she has honed her skills in identifying and assigning compelling articles that captivate readers. Her expertise spans a wide range of topics, including Truck Dimensions and Regulations, where she has consistently delivered insightful and informative content that meets the needs of her audience.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.