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Can You Ship Alcohol? Everything You Need to Know About Shipping Beer, Wine, and Liquor

When it comes to shipping alcohol, it’s important to do so safely, in full compliance with regulations, and in a way that protects the packaging and integrity of your products. In this article, we’ll cover the regulations that you should know and provide advice for keeping your packaging intact from shipping origin to destination.

Understanding Legal Requirements for Shipping Alcohol

Navigating the legal requirements for shipping alcohol can feel overwhelming. It’s complex, yes, but understanding these regulations is crucial for any business in the alcoholic beverage industry.

Alcohol Licenses

Before even thinking about boxing up a bottle or can, know this: you need the right licenses. These aren’t one-size-fits-all; they vary from region to region.

In the United States, you’ll need to consider the following:

Federal Licensing: First off, you’ll need a basic permit issued by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to manufacture, wholesale, or import alcoholic beverages.
State Licensing: Each state has its own regulations for the sale and shipment of alcohol. You must obtain a license from the alcohol regulatory agency in each state to which you intend to ship. Some states will require a direct shipper’s license while others might require some combination of retail, distributor, and shipping licenses. See a full list of state-by-state alcohol agencies in the U.S.

Because of the complexity and variety of licenses that a manufacturer may need to obtain, many companies exist to help alcohol beverage manufacturers remain compliant, including Sovos, Compliance Service of America, and Avalara, among others.

Wholesale vs. Direct-to-Consumer

When considering shipping alcohol, it’s important to distinguish between shipping to stores, bars, and restaurants (wholesale) and shipments to consumers. Here are some key differentiations to consider:

Licensing: We covered wholesale licensing considerations above, but when selling direct-to-consumer (DTC), many states require a different shipper’s license and/or permit.
Age Verification: DTC shipping requires an age verification process to ensure recipients are of legal drinking age.
Volume Limits: Some states may impose limits on the quantity of alcohol that can be shipped directly to a consumer.
Labeling and Packaging: When shipping alcohol, there are requirements for labeling and packaging depending on the carrier and the state to which the alcohol is being shipped. We’ll cover this in more detail later in this article.

Alcohol Shipping Agreements

An alcohol shipping agreement is a contract between a distributor or manufacturer of alcohol and a shipping carrier. This agreement outlines the terms under which the carrier will transport products. These agreements typically include the following elements:

Scope of services: Types of alcohol that will be transported, where will it be picked up and delivered, delivery timelines, etc.
Compliance agreement: Both parties agree to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding shipments of alcohol
Shipping and packaging requirements: Specifications on how the alcohol must be packaged to minimize damage during transit (including types of materials, labels, and handling instructions)
Insurance and liability: Details who is responsible for insuring the alcohol during transit, as well as each party’s liability in case of any issues

An alcohol shipping agreement will also commonly include payment terms, provisions for compliance audits and inspections, conditions for termination and renewal, and terms of confidentiality.

Prohibition & Dry Counties

“Prohibition? Wasn’t that repealed a long time ago??” Yes, but believe it or not, certain counties and local jurisdictions may still have strict regulations or may even prohibit the shipment of alcohol. You can view a list of dry counties in the U.S. here.

Beyond county and local laws, certain states impose limits on the amount of alcohol that can be shipped (particularly to consumers) within a given timeframe.

Choosing the Right Packaging & Shipping Materials

Selecting the right packaging materials for shipping alcohol requires a balance between ensuring the safety and integrity of your products, ensuring compliance, and keeping costs in check.

Choosing the Right Containers

You’ll want to consider the individual containers that your products come in as well as the shipping container that will be used to transport your products.

Glass Bottles and Cans: Ready-to-sell products like glass bottles and aluminum cans are usually packed into cases and then onto pallets. These could be corrugated fiberboard boxes, wooden crates, or cardboard trays wrapped in plastic.
Barrels and Kegs: Wooden barrels are traditional for spirits like whiskey and wine. Stainless steel kegs are commonly used for beer and cider. Barrels can be wrapped in plastic or another waterproof material to protect against moisture and other elements.
Bulk Containers: For large quantities beer, wine, or spirits that aren’t bottled or canned, shipping in bulk containers like IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) or Flexitanks is common. These containers can hold thousands of liters of liquid and are designed for easy loading and unloading.

Protecting Alcohol During Shipping

The proper packaging can make all the difference in ensuring your alcoholic beverages reach their destination intact. Consider the following:

Use Dividers: Keep bottles from knocking into each other by using dividers. These partitions help provide a snug fit, reducing movement and the chance of breakage. These can be corrugated trays, fiber trays, or even plastic trays.
Proper Sealing Is Key: Don’t skimp on sealing tape. Use a high-quality tape to secure all seams and openings firmly, ensuring that the package remains intact throughout its journey.
Cushioning Matters: Surround your product with ample cushioning material—bubble wrap, foam inserts, or air pillows work wonders in absorbing shocks and vibrations during transit.
Check Weight Distribution: Make sure the weight is evenly distributed in each box and container to avoid boxes from becoming top-heavy and tipping over during the shipping process.

Sustainable Packaging Considerations

Sustainable packaging solutions can help support your brand in the eyes of buyers who value environmental stewardship. Materials that can help reduce the environmental impact of packaging and shipping include:

Corrugated Cardboard
Biodegradable Packing Peanuts
Recycled Plastic and Bioplastics
Paper Bubble Wrap
Kraft Paper
Mushroom Packaging
Seaweed Packaging
Organic Fabrics

As with any eco-friendly material, you’ll have to weigh the benefit compared to the cost of materials. Consider the entire lifecycle of packaging materials too—from production to usage to disposal.

Labeling Considerations for Shipping Alcohol

When shipping alcohol, two of the major labeling considerations to take into account are the labels on the products inside and the shipping labels themselves.

Protecting Product Labels During Shipping

Whether you’re shipping in cans, bottles, kegs, or larger containers, there’s no doubt about it—alcohol labels must endure the elements during the shipping process. After all, no brewery, winery, or distillery wants to see their products on the shelves with tattered and torn labels.

Here are some tips to ensure your labels endure the shipping process:

Choose the right high-quality label materials: Your labels are going to have to endure moisture and temperature fluctuations during the shipping process. Choosing label materials that are resistant to scuffing and moisture (for example, BOPP, a synthetic material) will limit damage from the elements.
Choose the right adhesive: A label printing company like Blue Label can help you choose the right adhesive to withstand temperature fluctuations and humidity.
Protect your labels: Protective coatings like UV varnishes or lamination can provide an additional barrier against moisture, light exposure, or even damage from friction.

Choosing Alcohol Shipping Labels

You’ll need shipping labels for the boxes, pallets, or containers in which your alcohol is shipped. Obviously these labels will have your business address and the address of the destination, but you’ll also have to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure your shipping labels are compliant:

Federal Regulations: Your shipping labels must include your permit number and must clearly identify the type of alcohol inside the package (i.e. beer, wine, liquor, etc.). Labels must also include the origin and the destination of the shipment.
State Regulations: While each state will have its own regulations, states may require the following: shipper’s license number, quantity limits detailed on the label, and purchase method (i.e. online/phone)
Carrier-Specific Requirements: Each carrier (ex: FedEx, UPS) will have their own requirements, but expect carriers to require an adult signature from the recipient and specific labeling indicating that the package contains alcohol.

While regular shipping labels will get the job done, specialized shipping labels that feature your branding can add a visual appeal to packaging seen by consumers and buyers alike. If you’re thinking about branded shipping labels, remember the following:

Be sure to incorporate mandatory regulatory information
Ensure that your design doesn’t obscure any legally required information
Consider implementing a QR code to link to your company’s website, product details, or promotional videos

Special Considerations for Beer, Wine, and Spirits

While many of the regulations for shipping alcohol are consistent no matter the type of alcohol, there are some things to consider depending on what you’re shipping:

Shipping Beer: When bottled or canned, shipments of beer can be sensitive to changes in pressure and temperature—packaging that prevents agitation and extreme temperature changes is important. Since beer bottles are particularly delicate, using strong materials, dividers, and cushioning will help protect your product.
Shipping Wine: Wine is also sensitive to temperature changes—using temperature-controlled shipping methods or even insulated packaging can help protect the quality of the wine. Bottles of wine are also typically shipped on their sides to keep the cork moist, which helps maintain the seal and prevent oxidation.
Shipping Spirits: Spirits with high alcohol content may actually classify these products as hazardous materials under certain shipping regulations. This may require special handling, labeling, and compliance with material shipping laws. In addition, high-strength seals and tamper-evident packaging can help protect liquor bottles during the shipping process.

Staying Updated and Avoiding Common Mistakes

In the world of alcohol shipping, staying informed can help you avoid common pitfalls. Here’s how to stay up-to-date:

Embrace Continuous Learning: Regulations around packaging and shipping alcohol aren’t set in stone; they change with time. Subscribing to industry newsletters, attending webinars, or joining trade associations are excellent ways to stay on top of changes. This proactive approach helps avoid mistakes that could cost you in terms of compliance violations or damaged goods.
Leverage Technology for Efficiency: Innovations like smart labels (which track a package’s journey) or eco-friendly materials (that appeal to green-minded consumers) not only streamline operations but can also improve your brand’s reputation for innovation and responsibility.

Conclusion

We’ve covered the essentials of shipping alcohol—from ensuring safety and compliance to ensuring your product remains intact and appealing once it reaches its destination.

Safety and Compliance: These are non-negotiable. The right materials, clear labeling, and the proper licenses are essential to shipping alcohol.
Branding: Your packaging is the face of your product. Custom labels and printed boxes can set you apart in a crowded marketplace.
Legal Awareness: Staying informed about regional regulations helps avoid costly mistakes.
Material Choices: Opting for durable options helps safeguard your products.

Shipping alcoholic beverages requires careful packaging to ensure product safety, regulatory compliance, and brand representation. Don’t risk damaged goods, fines, or an underwhelming customer experience. Blue Label’s experts can help you choose the right packaging and label materials when shipping your beer, wine, or spirits products.

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Finding the Perfect Match: Beer Container Types and Beer Labels

Think beer labels are only good for traditional beer bottles or cans? Think again. From growlers and bombers to different sized beer cans, beer labels make the perfect addition. Here at Blue Label Packaging Company, we have experience designing and creating bottle labels for a variety of shapes and sizes.

It’s not just the label that can set a beverage apart from others. It’s the container type, too. Take a look at some of our favorite beer storage containers below:

1. Beer Cans

Why do brewers love cans of beer so much? They’re lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to transport, plus the metal blocks out light better than glass, helping protect beer flavor. Cans are also highly recyclable, which can be an appealing sustainability factor for both brewers and consumers.

The coolest thing about types of beer cans are the size variations – you don’t have to stick with the standard 12-ounce can.

Common Can Sizes

The following are some of the most common beer can types:

8.4 oz (often used for specialty releases or high-ABV beers)
12 oz (the classic “standard” can)
12 oz slim (same volume, narrower profile)
12-ounce “Sam Can”, produced by the well-known Boston Beer Company
16 oz (“tallboy” or “pint” can)
19.2 oz (“stovepipe,” often sold as single-serve)
32 oz crowler (an aluminum growler used by taprooms)

Beer Can Label & Shrink Sleeve Dimensions

For 12 oz cans, you’ll typically see pressure-sensitive labels around 3.75”–4” tall by 8”–8.5” wide.

16 oz cans often use labels around 5” tall by 8”–8.5” wide.

If you’re using shrink sleeves, the label height can cover the entire can from top to bottom—often 5”–6” for a 12 oz can, or 6”–7” for a 16 oz can—depending on how much real estate you want for your design.

2. Beer Bottles

Beer bottles

Beer bottles remain a staple in the industry—despite cans dominating much of the craft market, bottles of beer still have a loyal following.

A significant portion of craft beer sales continues to come from glass beer bottle formats, especially for specialty releases. They’re popular for their traditional look and the perception that glass can enhance a beer’s taste and presentation.

Some brewers also prefer bottles for high-gravity or barrel-aged brews, believing they allow for more nuanced aging and flavor development.

Why Choose Beer Bottles?

Brewers often opt for bottles because:

Brand Image: Glass can evoke a premium or nostalgic feel.
Flavor Preservation: Dark glass helps shield beer from harmful light.
Tradition: Many craft consumers still associate bottles of beer with authenticity and craftsmanship.

Common Bottle Sizes

12 oz – The classic standard for many craft and mainstream beers
22 oz (“Beer Bomber”) – Frequently used for limited-edition or specialty brews
16.9 oz (500 mL) – Popular among breweries with European roots
750 mL – Often used for high-end or Belgian-style releases

Beer Bottle Label Dimensions

Beer bottles typically use a front label and a back label, though some breweries choose a single wrap label that goes all the way around.

A common front label might be around 3 x 3 inches, while the back can vary between 2.5 x 2.5 inches and 3 x 4 inches depending on the bottle shape and how much legal info you need.

3. Beer Growlers

Often used for transporting craft beer from breweries, amber glass growlers have an iconic jug-like shape with a convenient handle.

Why do brewers turn to growlers? They’re refillable, reusable, and give customers a chance to take home fresh beer straight from the tap.

Common Growler Sizes

Most growlers hold 64 oz or 32 oz, though gallon sizes (128 oz) are also available for those who want more volume.

Common Label Dimensions

Labels for growlers generally fall in the 4–5 inch (height) by 4–6 inch (width) range, depending on the curved surface and branding needs.

Some brewers opt for larger, wrap-around labels—like 4 x 14 inches—for maximum coverage.

4. Beer Kegs

Beer kegs have always played a huge role in draft beer consumption—particularly in bars, restaurants, and taprooms. A lot of craft beer sales happen “on-premise,” and aluminum beer kegs are the go-to container for delivering fresh drafts.

The choice to use kegs often comes down to cost-effectiveness (they’re refillable and reusable), minimized packaging waste, and straightforward shipping logistics.

Why Choose Beer Kegs?

Bulk Distribution: Ideal for high-volume, on-premise service.
Quality Control: Minimizes oxygen exposure, keeping beer fresh for longer.
Sustainability: Reusable containers reduce packaging waste.
Cost Efficiency: Fewer materials compared to individual cans or bottles.

Common Keg Sizes

Half Barrel (1/2 bbl): 15.5 gallons—standard for bars and large events.
Quarter Barrel (1/4 bbl): 7.75 gallons—often referred to as a “pony keg.”
Sixth Barrel (1/6 bbl): 5.16 gallons—popular for smaller tap rotations or limited releases.
Cornelius Keg (“Corny Keg”): 5 gallons—often used by homebrewers and smaller-scale operations.

Common Label Sizes for Kegs

Beer keg collars sit around the top of the keg and usually measure 6–7 inches in diameter, depending on the collar’s design. They’re important for compliance (listing style, ABV, and brewery info) and branding.

Some brewers also use keg wraps—long, narrow labels that can wrap around the keg’s body. These typically run 4–6 inches tall and up to 30 inches wide, though dimensions vary based on the keg’s circumference.

If you’re looking to add color and branding, a well-designed wrap can stand out in a crowded cellar or cooler.

5. Beer Barrels and Casks

Beer casks

Barrels and casks are commonly used by craft beer breweries for aging or secondary fermentation, typically after the initial brewing process. They can infuse unique flavors (like oak, bourbon, or wine notes) into the product, resulting in more complexity.

Brewers often choose a beer barrel when they want to create limited-edition or specialty batches that stand out in the market. It’s all about achieving deeper, layered profiles that can’t be replicated in stainless steel tanks.

Why Use Barrels or Casks?

Flavor Enhancement: Wood barrels or casks previously used for spirits or wine can add distinct characteristics—vanilla, caramel, tannins, or even residual whiskey notes.
Extended Aging: Slower oxygen exchange creates subtler, more nuanced flavors over time.
Brand Differentiation: Barrel-aged beers can command premium prices and generate buzz among craft enthusiasts.

Common Barrel and Cask Sizes

Standard Barrels (53 gallons): Often repurposed from bourbon distilleries, the most common size in the U.S.
Wine Barrels (59 gallons): Popular for sour or wild ales, imparting vinous qualities.
Hogsheads (66 gallons): Larger barrels sometimes used for extended aging.
Firkins (9 gallons): A smaller, traditional British cask used for real ale or specialty releases.
Pins (4.5 gallons): Half the size of a firkin, ideal for small-batch cask ales.

Choosing the right size depends on your goals: smaller casks let you try new recipes without a big commitment, while larger barrels hold more product for extended aging and complex flavor development.

Your type of beer container doesn’t have to be the only packaging feature that sets your beer a part. Likewise, your beer labels don’t have to be the only unique part of your beer bottles or cans. Beer containers and labels can – and should – work together to bring the product to life. Use them both to your advantage, and contact us today to find out how.

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Why Don’t Beer, Wine, and Spirits Labels Have to Disclose Ingredients or Serving Facts on Labels?

It didn’t take long for someone to make waves in the beer labeling world in 2019. Just 11 days into the year, Anheuser-Busch InBev announced that Bud Light would feature serving-facts labels on its boxes starting in February.

While the move may not seem noteworthy for people unfamiliar with the rules and regulations of beer labels, the announcement is notable for one big reason: beer doesn’t need to divulge that information on its packaging. In fact, alcohol in general is exempt from disclosing ingredients and nutritional facts that are commonplace on labels for packaged food products.

So why is it that beer, wine, and spirits labels are exempt from listing nutritional information when those products have just as many–if not more–calories and carbohydrates as juice or other typical beverages? It turns out there’s one big reason why alcohol labels don’t require nutrition or ingredients labels: tradition.
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Adding Value to Your Label with a QR Code

Guest Post by: Gretchen Ardizzone at Shout Out Studio

Having a well designed, well-executed label is the first step in attracting attention to your product, but there’s an opportunity for your label to do more. If you want to communicate the added value of your product, you might consider a QR code. QR (quick response) codes aren’t the newest technology to hit the market. In fact, the two dimensional barcodes have been around for almost twenty years. But we’ve seen them more (both good and bad) in the last few years in attempts to stand out in a highly competitive marketplace. When applied thoughtfully, they can provide their benefits.

Some people think the primary use of a QR code is a good way to direct consumers to your website. Not entirely. The reality is that your web address can just as easily be printed on your label, and if a consumer wants to visit your website before or after purchase, they’ll likely do it anyhow. The first question to ask is how engaging is your website? If you’re driving traffic there, it’s crucial that there’s something there to engage them. If it’s just basic company information and where to find your product (which they just did), you might want to reconsider.

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