Buzz
Considering sending alcohol as a gift? While the rules around shipping alcohol are strict, there are options available. If you're curious about the ins and outs of shipping alcohol locally, across state lines, or internationally, we've got you covered. Dive into our comprehensive guide on shipping all types of alcohol—whether it's beer, wine, or spirits.
Key Steps
Is Shipping Alcohol Legal?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) strictly prohibits shipping alcoholic beverages. If you're considering sending alcohol as a gift or for personal use and you're not a licensed alcohol retailer, using a courier service to send a bottle won't be an option.
- Unless you're a government employee sending alcohol to another employee for official testing purposes, the Postal Service won't handle alcohol shipments. USPS also advises against using containers labeled with alcohol for shipping standard items, as they may be confiscated.
Shipping Alcohol with UPS or FedEx as a Licensed Retailer Although USPS prohibits alcohol shipments, FedEx and UPS will deliver alcohol to consumers if you hold a valid retail license, winery, or distillery permit. Individuals cannot avail themselves of this service.
- To ship alcohol, you must be a state-licensed seller with a contract with UPS or FedEx. Sending alcohol as a gift via UPS is not an option for non-licensed individuals.
How to Send Alcohol as a Gift or for Personal Use?
Utilize an Alcohol Delivery App. In recent years, apps like Drizly and Thirstie have gained popularity as convenient options for alcohol delivery. These platforms collaborate with retailers nationwide to provide direct-to-door alcohol delivery services, perfect for sending gifts or receiving alcohol hassle-free, bypassing shipping regulations.
Collaborate with an Alcohol Retailer Directly. When attempting to send someone a bottle of wine or spirits as a gift, consider reaching out to a retailer within their state. In-state retailers will have an easier time shipping alcohol to you or someone else, as they possess the proper licenses to do so.
Shipping Alcohol Within-State as a Retailer
Adhere to the local and state regulations regarding alcohol shipment. Each state has its own set of laws governing alcohol shipping, including regulations on permissible types and quantities of alcohol (some states prohibit shipping altogether!). Familiarize yourself with these laws before dispatching any alcohol to consumers to avoid potential confiscation of your shipment.
- The National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) provides a comprehensive overview of state-specific alcohol shipping laws.
- Note that in states like Mississippi, direct consumer alcohol shipments are prohibited unless the consumer makes an in-person purchase.
- Certain states, such as Texas, forbid alcohol shipments between cities for individual consumers.
Establish a retailer agreement for shipping via UPS or FedEx. Initiate discussions with a representative from either carrier for a consultation, then formalize the arrangement with a contract. This enables retailers to utilize these carriers for intrastate alcohol shipments, excluding individuals.
Shipping Alcohol Across State Lines as a Retailer
Thoroughly research the alcohol shipping laws of your and your customer's states for interstate shipments. Non-compliance with state laws can lead to interception of your shipment. If shipping from a brewery or distillery, note that many states don't accept out-of-state alcohol shipments. Prioritize understanding state-specific shipping regulations:
- Certain states prohibit direct-to-consumer out-of-state shipments, such as Utah, Mississippi, Alabama, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Delaware, and select districts in Kentucky.
- For breweries, only 7 states allow direct-to-consumer out-of-state sales: Nebraska, Ohio, Virginia, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Vermont, Oregon, and Washington D.C.
- For distilleries, only Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota permit direct out-of-state shipping.
Enter into an agreement with FedEx or UPS to ship alcohol between states. Ensure you hold a valid alcohol vendor license in your state and schedule a consultation with a carrier representative. Subject to local regulations, you'll be authorized to ship alcohol to consumers and retailers, provided there's an adult aged 21 or older available to sign for the delivery.
Shipping Alcohol Globally as a Retailer
Consult with an alcohol importer or ensure compliance with the requisite documentation for international shipping. International alcohol shipping necessitates collaboration with an importer due to the extensive documentation requirements, which vary by destination country. Familiarize yourself with all regulations and paperwork in advance to streamline the process. Engaging with an alcohol importer or exporter can facilitate this process.
Understanding the Complexity of Alcohol Shipping
During the early 20th century, each state enacted distinct, disjointed shipping regulations. At the peak of the temperance movement, which advocated for alcohol prohibition, states formulated their own laws governing alcohol shipment and trade following the end of prohibition in the 1930s. These disparate regulations have contributed to the current system.
