Top Wine Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Transporting wine needs careful planning, organization, and the right materials. A single mistake in packaging can result in leaks, shattered bottles, or temperature-related damage. You protect your product by getting rid of typical mistakes and sticking to established procedures.

This guide provides you with straightforward points to ensure your shipments arrive at your customers in excellent condition.

Mistake 1: Using Weak Boxes

Many shippers use regular cardboard boxes for wine. This choice puts your bottles at risk. Standard boxes lack the strength needed for heavy glass. They collapse under pressure or during stacking.
Use strong outer boxes built for wine. They support weight, reduce movement, and keep the structure firm during transit.

Mistake 2: Skipping Molded Pulp Inserts

Loose bottles shift during shipping. Movement increases the chance of cracks and pressure damage. Molded pulp inserts hold each bottle in place. They absorb shock and keep bottles separated.
Choose molded pulp sets for one bottle, two bottles, four bottles, six bottles, or twelve bottles. Each size fits a specific order volume.

Mistake 3: Leaving Extra Space Inside the Box

Empty gaps allow bottles to bounce inside the box. Even with strong inserts, extra room increases pressure on the glass.
Fill any gap with paper-based fillers. Use firm materials that stay in place. Avoid loose fillers that shift during transit.

Mistake 4: Ignoring Temperature Control

Wine reacts to heat. High temperatures change flavor and reduce quality. Cold temperatures freeze the liquid and push corks out of place.
Ship during stable weather. Store sealed boxes in cool areas while waiting for pickups. Avoid leaving boxes near heat sources like windows or warehouse machinery.

Mistake 5: Forgetting to Seal Boxes Correctly

Many shipping issues start with weak tape or poor sealing. Tape that lifts or splits exposes your shipment to dust, moisture, and extra movement.
Use strong packing tape on all openings. Apply multiple layers on the bottom of the box. Press firmly to secure the edges.

Mistake 6: Using the Wrong Bottle Size for the Wrong Insert

Loose bottles inside a molded pulp insert lose stability. A wrong fit increases movement and pressure buildup.
Always match the insert to the exact bottle style. Standard, champagne, and specialty bottles need different inserts. Check measurements before packing.

Mistake 7: Stacking Heavy Boxes on Wine Shipments

Excess weight crushes boxes, damages inserts, and presses bottles together. Many warehouse workers stack boxes without checking the contents.
Store wine shipments on top shelves or dedicated racks. Mark each box with clear handling labels.

Mistake 8: Poor Labeling and Documentation

Packages get delayed when labeling is incomplete or unclear. Missing information leads to returns or holds.
Place labels on clean, flat surfaces. Write clear instructions for carriers. Add “Fragile” and “This Side Up” notices.

Mistake 9: Not Testing Packaging Before Large Shipping Runs

Shipping large orders without testing increases the risk of loss. A simple drop test helps you find weak points.
Pack one box, secure it, perform a drop test, and review the results. Make changes where needed.

Mistake 10: Ignoring Carrier Rules for Wine

Every carrier follows strict rules for wine shipments. Wrong packaging or incomplete paperwork leads to delays or cancelled pickups.
Review current rules before shipping. Prepare your documents in advance.

Key Steps for Safe Wine Shipping

• Use molded pulp inserts for structure.
• Use strong corrugated outer boxes.
• Keep bottles upright during packing.
• Store packed boxes in cool areas.
• Seal all edges firmly with strong tape.
• Test your packaging before large orders.

You reduce breakage, refunds, and customer complaints when you avoid these mistakes. A structured packing process protects your product and supports your business.