How to Package Wine, Spirits, Alcohol, and Beer for Safe Shipping

Shipping high-value beverages like wine, spirits, alcohol, and beer requires special care to prevent breakage, leaks, or loss of value during transit. Proper packaging is key to protecting these fragile items, especially when they are collectible or limited-edition bottles. To ensure safe delivery and eligibility for ShipSimple Shipping Insurance, follow this detailed step-by-step guide. Don’t forget to take photos at each step to document the packaging process for insurance coverage.

Step 1: Gather Packaging Materials
To safely ship wine, spirits, alcohol, or beer, you’ll need specific materials that will protect the bottles from impact and prevent leaks:

• Original Packaging (if available): If the bottles are already in their original boxes, keep them there for added protection.
• Bottle Protectors: Use padded bottle sleeves, inflatable bottle protectors, or foam wine shippers specifically designed to hold bottles securely.
• Double-Walled Shipping Box: A sturdy box designed for shipping glass bottles (often known as a wine shipper or bottle box).
• Corrugated Dividers: These cardboard dividers keep bottles from clinking together inside the box.
• Packing Peanuts, Air Pillows, or Foam Inserts: For filling extra space and cushioning the bottles.
• Bubble Wrap or Foam Sheets: For wrapping the bottles, especially if not using a custom wine shipper.
• Sealable Plastic Bags: To prevent spills from damaging other items if a bottle leaks.
• Heavy-Duty Packing Tape: For securely sealing the box.
• "Fragile" and "This Side Up" Labels: To clearly mark the box for proper handling.

Take a photo: Start by photographing your packaging materials to show you have the proper supplies.

Step 2: Secure the Bottle Caps or Corks
Ensure that the bottle caps or corks are securely fastened to prevent leaks during shipping. If the bottles have corks, check that they are fully seated in the bottle neck. For extra protection, you can wrap the cork or cap in plastic wrap or tape.

Take a photo: Take a picture of the securely closed bottles before wrapping.

Step 3: Use Sealable Plastic Bags
Place each bottle inside a sealable plastic bag. This step will help contain any potential leaks and prevent liquid from damaging the other contents of the shipment or the outer box.

• For added security, double-bag the bottles by placing them inside a second plastic bag.

Take a photo: Document the bottles sealed in plastic bags before adding further protection.

Step 4: Wrap the Bottles
Wrap each bottle in bubble wrap or foam sheets, especially around the neck and base, which are the most vulnerable to breakage. Secure the wrap with tape to ensure the padding stays in place.

• If you are using a custom wine shipper or bottle protector, place the bottle inside its protective sleeve or compartment instead of bubble wrapping it individually.

Take a photo: Snap a picture of the wrapped bottles to show how they are protected.

Step 5: Prepare the Shipping Box
Line the bottom of your double-walled shipping box with packing peanuts, air pillows, or foam inserts to create a protective base.

• Place the wrapped bottles upright inside the box.
• If you’re shipping multiple bottles, use corrugated cardboard dividers between them to keep them from clinking together or touching during transit.
• Add additional cushioning material around the sides, top, and between the bottles to ensure they remain stationary and protected.

Take a photo: Photograph the bottles placed securely inside the shipping box with cushioning around them.

Step 6: Seal the Box Securely
Once your bottles are packed, seal the box with heavy-duty packing tape. Make sure to seal all seams and edges thoroughly to prevent the box from opening during shipping.

• If you are shipping fragile glass bottles, be sure to label the box with handling instructions like "Fragile" and "This Side Up" to ensure careful handling during transit.

Take a photo: Capture a picture of the sealed and labeled box before shipping.

Step 7: Optional: Temperature Control
If the wine or spirits are temperature-sensitive, especially in extreme weather conditions, consider using an insulated shipping box or cold packs to maintain a stable temperature during transit.

• Clearly indicate any temperature control requirements on the shipping label.

Take a photo: If applicable, document the use of any temperature control materials.

Step 8: Track and Document
Keep detailed records of the packaging process by taking photos at each stage, particularly for valuable or rare bottles. Be sure to track your shipment and retain the tracking number and information until the delivery is confirmed.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your wine, spirits, alcohol, or beer is properly protected and covered under ShipSimple Shipping Insurance. Proper packaging and thorough documentation will safeguard your shipment and set it up for success.