Here you can see some examples and generic rules regarding the packaging you should use to ship wine.

• Always ensure that the wine is packed with both outer and inner packaging that provides shock absorption and protects against moisture.

• The outer packaging must be made of (at least) 2-layered corrugated cardboard.

• If there are multiple bottles, they should be packed separately in the box. The inner packaging should contain dividers made of sturdy cardboard or be molded from foam to fit multiple wine bottles (see picture for inspiration).

• Whether there is one bottle or multiple, make sure the wine is secured firmly. The bottle should not be able to rattle loosely inside the packaging. Fill any empty spaces with materials such as bubble wrap.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure the shipment meets the specific requirements from the shipping carrier of your choice.

Here are some examples of packaging that are NOT approved to ship wine. To specify, we made a list of some of the pitfalls that make your shipment uninsurable in case there's an accident:

• No Loose Bottles

  The bottle(s) must be securely placed and fixed in the box unable to roll around.

• No Thin or Soft Cardboard

  Thin cardboard is not approved as shipping material since it is not resilient during transportation. For this reason, the original packaging boxes that wines are often packed in coming straight from the producer are not approved for standard shipping.

• No Newspaper

  Newspaper can cause discoloration on the bottle's label and should therefore be completely avoided for trying to protect the glass.

• Ensure Shock Absorption
  

  Ensure the bottles are protected from shocks, for example by using bubble wrap.

• No Writing on the Packaging

  Writing “Fragile” or placing stickers indicating the shipment contains glass is unfortunately useless, as the shipping companies’ sorting facilities cannot read them. This will not serve as any protection.

• No Gift Boxes or Wooden Boxes

  If you have sold an OWC (Original Wooden Case) and the buyer wishes to receive the wooden case, you must open it and send the wine and wooden case separately to ensure proper shock absorption around the bottles. The same applies to gift boxes, as these are not inherently shock-absorbing and must be packed separately. Otherwise, your shipment will not be insured.