Will Movers Move an Alcohol Or Wine Collection?
Each move comes with its challenges and roadblocks. If you’re a fan of popping open a pinot noir during movie night extravaganzas, you’ve probably asked, “Will movers move alcohol or wine collections?”
The short and easy answer: Most of the time, yes, but only if the bottles are closed and sealed. You might find movers who make exceptions, but open container and flammability laws will prevent many cross country movers from moving open bottles of alcohol.
We’re going to answer common questions about moving alcohol collections so you don’t have to give up your white wine storage at the last second.
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Will full-service movers move alcohol collections?
The majority of full-service movers will move alcohol collections big and small. They’re well aware of how expensive this cargo is and why few long-distance movers are willing to give them up.
That said, the occasional mover might be cautious about transporting alcohol due to two factors: the high risk of transporting flammable materials or because of state regulations.
Open container laws prohibit movers from alcohol that isn’t properly sealed.
This is to reduce the risk of drunk driving or spilling hazardous materials.
In some states, these laws extend to prohibit the moving of any flammable cargo that isn’t sealed.
When in doubt, get a quote from a professional moving company. The only way to find out what your company will or won’t move is to ask them, so prepare a list of questions beforehand:
- Do you move alcohol?
- Can you help me pack wine bottles?
- How much does it cost to move alcohol?
- Do you accept my moving insurance?
- How many transportation options are available for moving alcohol?
- Will they wrap and move liquor bottles?
- Will they move the collection alongside your other household items?
What are the hazards of moving alcohol?
Alcohol is notoriously flammable. When 10% of all large trucks will get into a serious accident, movers have to take extra precautions when transporting volatile materials.
Whether you’re a fan of wine or whiskey, alcohol bottles must be tightly sealed. If you have a habit of leaving wine bottles unfinished but don’t feel like tossing them, it’s highly recommended you invest in a high-quality wine stopper. Movers are serious about managing hazards and won’t risk taking aboard anything that looks like it could start leaking.
There are plenty of flexible moving options available today. We compiled a list of the best interstate moving companies so you’re not at a loss before moving day.
Can you put alcohol in a moving truck?
Whether you’re driving the truck yourself or a professional is, never transport alcohol in a moving truck. A specialized moving van with a more controlled temperature is ideal.
Moving trucks aren’t able to transport a lot of things. Due to their lack of temperature regulation and constant movement, they run a higher risk of breaking or leaking their cargo. This means alcohol has to be transported in a separate vehicle to meet safety regulations and keep liquor from spoiling. Transporting alcohol and other materials in extreme temperatures could lead to fires.
Other elements you can’t put in a moving truck include:
- Pets
- Plants
- Electronics
- Perishable food items
- Loaded Guns
- Car batteries
Hazardous items you might overlook include cleaning supplies like:
- Bleach
- Nail polish remover
- Pool cleaning chemicals
- alcoholic beverages
- propane tanks
- motor oil
- scuba tanks
- lighter fluid
- corrosive materials
- paint thinners
- pesticides
- aerosol cans
- weed killers
Ask your moving company for a list of non-movable items and go over your moving items carefully before moving day. You don’t want to toss several of your belongings at the last second.
How much does it cost to move alcohol?
This answer isn’t precisely straightforward, unfortunately. Your alcohol expenses depend on the volume of alcohol, your preferred transportation method, and just how many sensitive glass parts the movers will be handling.
Wine shipping boxes are designed to keep your bottles snug, averaging at $12 each. If you want to move wine by air, you’ll be faced with the most expensive option by far. Moving by vehicle or train is slower, but more cost-effective.
Remember that each state has unique rules regarding alcoholic transportation (with Kansas and Massachusetts having some of the strictest laws). Failing to abide by your new state’s laws could see you losing your stock upon arrival.
If you want to get a headstart on your general moving costs, check out our Moving Cost Calculator.
How does one pack wine for moving?
Wine is a highly sensitive beverage that changes drastically depending on how long it’s
stored…and how it’s stored. You need to properly pack your wine so you don’t have any nasty surprises once you reach your destination.
Wine needs to be kept out of sunlight and in a controlled temperature environment. Excess heat, especially over 70 degrees, will ruin your wine’s complex medley of flavors and leave it tasting bland or sour. Discuss with your movers any concerns you have about wine storage so you can ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Wine should be maintained at room temperature of 50 degrees or so. Make sure to pack wine like you would any delicate glass container: tightly fitted with crumpled paper or packing peanuts, with wine-specific packaging the most ideal. Even gentle rocking could crack the glass and cause a leak.
It’s also wise to move during a cooler season: while June is the most popular month to move, it’s notoriously hot and will bake your wine.
Get a free quote based on the date and size of your move using our moving cost calculator.
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