Shipping wine takes more care than an ordinary parcel. A bottle is fragile, sensitive to transport conditions, and subject to rules that vary by country, carrier, and type of shipment.
Major international carriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS) impose precise standards for liquid shipments in glass bottles. Non-compliant packaging can result in the parcel being refused at pickup, voided insurance coverage in case of damage, and contractual penalties.
Why Packaging Matters
Packaging protects the bottle, but it also protects the sender's image. A damaged parcel, a spoiled label, or a poorly presented delivery can harm the recipient's experience, even when the wine arrives intact.
For premium wines, packaging is an integral part of the service. It must be chosen according to the number of bottles, their value, the destination, the desired lead time, and the carrier's requirements.
Choosing Packaging Suited to Wine
There is no single solution for every shipment. A sample shipment, a rare bottle, a wooden case, or a gift set do not require the same level of protection.
For parcel shipments, you must use packaging designed for transporting bottles. It keeps the bottles separated, protected, and properly secured.
Wooden cases, gift boxes, or presentation packaging are not always sufficient for transport. They may require additional protection to preserve both the contents and the presentation.
Accounting for Temperature
Wine can be sensitive to high heat, cold, and sudden temperature swings. These conditions can affect the quality of the wine, but also the state of the labels, capsules, or gift boxes.
For sensitive shipments, it is best to avoid periods of extreme heat or cold whenever possible. For valuable bottles, long journeys, or certain destinations, a more closely managed mode of transport may be recommended.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some mistakes greatly increase the risk of breakage, delay, or dispute:
- Using packaging not intended for bottles
- Letting the bottles move around inside the parcel
- Reusing a weakened box
- Overlooking lead times during heat, cold, or public holidays
- Assuming a “Fragile” marking is enough to protect the shipment
A successful wine shipment relies on anticipation. The earlier the constraints are identified, the better the transport can be prepared.
Precautions to Take
- Use only boxes supplied by Vastorg or boxes certified by the carriers
- Declare the true value for ad valorem insurance
- Photograph the packaging before pickup to have proof in case of a dispute
Frequently asked questions about packaging and temperature
How should wine be packaged?
Wine must be packaged in a container suitable for bottle transport (a Vastorg-supplied box or a carrier-certified box). The goal is to prevent movement, protect the bottles from impacts, and limit breakage risk.
Can I use a standard winery presentation box?
No. Presentation boxes and standard winery cartons are not designed to withstand the stresses of international transport.
Vastorg can recommend or supply suitable packaging based on the shipment.
Can wooden cases be shipped as-is?
No. A wooden case protects presentation but is not sufficient as transport packaging. Additional protection is required.
Who supplies the packaging?
Packaging can be supplied by Vastorg. If not, the packaging chosen by the shipper must be validated by Vastorg before departure.
Is a "Fragile" label enough?
No. A "Fragile" label may help but never replaces suitable packaging. The parcel must withstand normal transport handling.
Can gift boxes be shipped?
Yes, but presentation packaging must not be treated as sufficient logistical protection.
Can I ship just before a weekend?
It depends on the service chosen. For sensitive or high-value wines, it may be preferable to avoid departures that leave the shipment in transit over a weekend or public holiday.