How To Ship Liquids: What Ecommerce Businesses Need To Know

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Shipping liquids can be a tricky task. Proper packaging is essential for preventing breakage or spillage, and there are strict, multi-layered guidelines on which types of liquid you’re allowed to send.

If you sell beverages, alcoholic drinks, or perfumes, our guide can help you understand the best practices when shipping liquids. Learn the relevant rules and regulations for shipping different types of liquids by carrier and how to package liquids safely below.

Can you mail liquids?

Yes, you can mail most liquids domestically, with some exceptions.

There are three main things you’ll want to look at: the type of liquid you’re shipping, what packaging you need, and your shipping carrier’s guidelines.

1. Liquid type

What kind of liquid are you shipping? Generally, you can ship any non-hazardous liquids without restrictions, but riskier liquids may be restricted or outright banned. Exact restrictions and prohibitions depend on the carrier, with most following a variation on these guidelines:

2. Packaging for the liquid

Do you know what packaging materials you need for your liquid? Depending on the substance and product packaging, you might have to deal with potential spills or punctures, protect perishable products, regulate temperatures, and more.

Before you start packaging your product, ask yourself:

• Is your liquid product intended for human consumption (beverages and food)?
• Is your liquid in breakable containers (glass)?
• Is your liquid packaged in a leak-proof container (screw-on top)?
• Is your liquid temperature-sensitive?
• Are you shipping liquids in bulk?
• Are you shipping hazardous liquids (corrosive, flammable, poisonous, explosive)?

3. Shipping carrier liquid guidelines

Which shipping carrier will you use? Each carrier has different safety requirements for delivering liquids, so we recommend choosing your shipping service before you start. We’ll dive deeper into the specific requirements for USPS, FedEx, and UPS shipping later in this article.

What you’ll need to ship liquids

Depending on your liquid and how you want to package it, you might need:

• Sturdy shipping boxes
• Packing tape
• Corrugated cardboard dividers
• Packing material (tissue paper, bubble wrap, packing peanuts)

How to package liquids for shipping

1. Ensure liquids are watertight

Confirm that every bottle is tightly sealed to prevent leaks during transit. Reinforce closures with tape, shrink wrap, or additional taped bubble wrap to prevent damage from pressure changes and rough handling. For eco-friendly secondary packaging, consider taping a layer of corrugated cardboard around the bottle.

2. Pack and pad the box

Line the box with cushioning materials, such as tissue paper, bubble wrap, or crinkled paper, to prevent bottles from shifting. This is especially important when shipping glass containers that crack easily. Include absorbent materials, such as paper towels or cotton balls, to contain potential spills.

If you’re shipping multiple fragile bottles in one package, separate each bottle with cardboard dividers for protection.

Fill all remaining space with padding so that nothing moves when you shake the box.

3. Seal the box shut

Close the box tightly and apply strong packing tape along all seams to prevent accidental opening during transit. Add the shipping label to the top surface of the box so carriers can clearly identify the correct orientation and destination.

USPS, UPS, and FedEx shipping requirements for non-hazardous liquids

Each shipping carrier has slightly different requirements for sending liquids. Most notably, USPS has strict regulations on shipping any form of alcohol, even for businesses. This table covers the basics of shipping non-hazardous liquids with each carrier, and which items they prohibit.

For more information on packaging guidelines and hazardous liquids, visit the carrier’s website.

Shipping sensitive liquids

Some goods require extra care to ship, whether due to state laws or carrier restrictions. Learn how to ship alcohol, perfume, and temperature-sensitive liquids.

Shipping alcoholic beverages

While most states allow for direct shipping from wineries, the options for alcohol retailers are more limited. Some states also ban direct alcohol deliveries to individual consumers entirely.

Regardless of carrier, you must hold the appropriate licenses to ship alcohol.

Shipping alcohol through USPS

USPS prohibits alcohol shipments domestically and internationally. It also prohibits any packaging with branding or labeling that shows it can be used to carry alcohol.

Shipping alcohol through FedEx

FedEx allows businesses to ship wine, beer, and spirits to other licensees if both parties hold the appropriate licenses. However, businesses can only ship wine direct-to-consumer. To send alcohol through FedEx, you’ll need to:

• Enroll in the FedEx alcohol shipping program
• Use an up-to-date FedEx Ship Manager electronic shipping solution or FedEx-approved system
• Use polystyrene inner packaging or molded pulp packaging with a sturdy corrugated outer container
• Select the adult signature requirement service
• Add an alcohol shipping label (available from FedEx) to signify US origin

Shipping alcohol through UPS

UPS allows licensed-to-licensed, direct-to-consumer, and interstate distillery/brewery/winery shipments, subject to state laws. To ship alcohol with UPS, you must:

• Enter into a UPS agreement for the specific type of alcohol you ship
• Use inner packaging of molded expanded polystyrene foam, folded corrugated tray, or molded fiber tray
• Select the adult signature required service
• Include a special alcoholic beverages shipping label (available from UPS)

Shipping perfume

Perfumes are flammable products, so each carrier has its own set of specific rules for shipping them.

Shipping perfume through USPS

You can’t send perfumes containing alcohol through USPS air mail, but you can ship them within the US via ground mail. To send perfume through USPS, you must use leakproof primary containers, absorbent cushioning material, and strong outer packaging.

Shipping perfume through FedEx

You can send perfume through FedEx domestically in limited amounts. Follow these packaging guidelines:

• Ensure individual glass containers are less than 8 fl, and individual plastic containers are less than 16 fl
• Keep shipments to less than 192 ounces and don’t package in white FedEx packaging
• Contact the Dangerous Goods hotline for business shipping

Shipping perfume through UPS

As perfumes are considered hazardous materials, you need to follow these guidelines when shipping them through UPS:

• Create a UPS account and agree to the Hazardous Materials Contract Service agreement
• Ship by ground only using approved packaging and proper hazard labeling

Shipping temperature-sensitive liquids

Temperature-sensitive liquids like perishable beverages can be damaged by heat, so it’s important to know how to ship them properly.

Shipping sensitive liquids through USPS

You can ship perishable liquids through USPS by using insulated packaging with cold packs or gel packs and selecting a fast service such as Priority Mail Express or Priority Mail to minimize transit time.

Shipping sensitive liquids through FedEx

To ship perishable liquids through FedEx:

• Line an insulated container with a plastic liner and place moisture-absorbing packets, cellulose wadding, or paper towels on top
• Double-bag the liquid with watertight plastic bags and place it in the container
• Place the coolants on all sides and on top of the liquid container and fill any empty space with packing materials
• Twist the top of the liner bag tightly, fold it back against itself and seal it with a rubber band
• Place the lid on the container and secure it with the H taping method
• Mark the package as perishable

Shipping sensitive liquids through UPS

You can ship sensitive liquids through UPS using dry ice or gel packs. These aren’t regulated for ground transport, so you can process the shipments within the contiguous states the same as any other UPS ground shipment.

Shipping liquids internationally

You can ship liquids internationally, though there could be legal prohibitions depending on the regulations of the destination country. Additionally, you generally can’t ship flammable liquids, such as perfume, through air mail. Read each carrier’s site for more information on shipping dangerous goods internationally.

Wrapping it up

Shipping liquids can be a lot more complicated than sending solid items, but with a bit of research and durable packaging, you can deliver most liquids anywhere in the US.

Perfect the customer experience with packaging that elevates your brand through custom shipping boxes, packing tape, and tissue paper!

Start shopping noissue's packaging and shipping products by your industry today.

Shipping liquids can be a tricky task.

If you sell beverages, alcoholic drinks, perfumes, or other liquids, you need to understand the regulations that impact what you are trying to ship. When sending domestically, liquids that are not dangerous to the carrier can be shipped while flammable liquids and controlled substances may be prohibited.

When shipping internationally, the list of restrictions grows. Liquids like gasoline, perfumes containing alcohol, and nail polish cannot be shipped internationally.

Some liquids like aerosol cans can be shipped by surface mail, but airmail transport is prohibited. This is because it could explode with the impact of air pressure associated with flying.

Needless to say, you need to consider a host of factors if you plan to ship liquids domestically, internationally, or both. In this article, you’ll discover the relevant rules and regulations for shipping different types of liquids, the guidelines of the major shipping companies, and how you can ship liquids safely.

How do you ship liquid items?

There are three key factors that are important when shipping liquids — the type of liquid you want to ship, packaging to protect the liquid, and the guidelines of your shipping carrier. We will explain each below:

1. The type of liquid you want to ship

The first question to ask is if the liquid you want to ship is permitted. Liquids that do not cause injury can be shipped, liquids that carry the risk of spillage can be shipped in limited quantities, while hazardous or flammable liquids cannot be shipped.

Corrosive, flammable, or poisonous liquids are prohibited by all carriers. They cannot be shipped via mail.

Liquids that are always permitted to ship:

• Juices
• Beverages
• Perfumes
• Oils
• Soups
• Soaps.

Liquids that can be shipped in limited quantities:

• Paint
• Spray paint
• Acetone
• Rubbing alcohol
• Propane in pressurized cans
• Witch hazel.

2. Packaging to protect the liquid

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There are many things to consider when shipping liquids including how you will deal with potential spills or punctures, protecting perishable products, temperature regulation, and more.

When packaging liquids, careful and secure packing is key, and this requires a holistic understanding of the properties of the liquid you are shipping. Consider the following before choosing the right packing material for your product:

• Is your liquid product intended for human consumption (juices, beverages, food)?
• Is your liquid in breakable containers (for example, glass)?
• Is your liquid a danger to the shipper (corrosive, flammable, poisonous, explosive, hazardous materials)?
• Is your liquid temperature sensitive?
• Are you shipping very large quantities?
• Is your liquid regulated by hazmat laws?

Answer all these questions to figure out the best packaging for your product. Packaging usually starts with a cardboard box, plenty of padding or a sturdy bottle or wine carrier, and liquids will have to be sealed in watertight containers to prevent leakages.

Perishable liquids should be put in a styrofoam cooler or bottle carrier to preserve the liquid before placing it in the cardboard box. We will cover more about safely shipping liquids later in the article.

3. Your shipping carrier

The guidelines for shipping liquids internationally are usually different and more expensive than domestic shipping. We will cover the details for shipping with each carrier in the next section, but it's best to speak directly to a representative of the shipping company you plan to use.

Shipping Liquids Through USPS, FedEx, or UPS

Shipping liquids with USPS

USPS offers the best mix of affordable rates and quick delivery for shipping liquids.USPS doesn’t charge extra for shipping liquids and you can use any of their shipping options including:

• Priority Mail: 1-3 days shipping time
• Priority Mail Express: 1-2 days shipping time
• USPS Retail Ground: 2-8 days.

USPS has some restrictions for the shipment of alcohol, gasoline, aerosols, hand sanitizer, nail polish, paint, perfumes (containing alcohol), and poisons.

You must adhere to USPS rules for liquid product packaging and triple-pack your boxes. Use tightly sealed caps for containers and padding for breakable containers.

Shipping liquids with FedEx

FedEx allows the shipments of a broader range of liquids than USPS, but it also prohibits aerosols, flammable liquids, and any hazardous material.

You can use any of the following options to ship your liquid including:

• Flat Rate Shipping: packages under 50lbs
• Freight Shipping: packages above 150lbs
• Same-day delivery
• Overnight shipping.

Liquids must be packed in a waterproof, sealable container. The container must be kept upright in the cardboard box, and the box must be marked  as “Fragile” to ensure it is not kept upside down during shipping.

Shipping liquids with UPS

It's difficult to get details about UPS’s specific rules for shipping liquids, however, the company has a resource page to guide shippers on how to ship alcohol with UPS. It's best to contact a company representative to learn more about the requirements for shipping your liquid.

Despite the uncertainty about the type of liquids that can be shipped, UPS packaging requirements mirror those of FedEx.

The company offers variable pricing for its shipments. Its flat rate shipping option is limited to 50lbs per month and takes 1-5 days to ship.

Shipping alcohol with the major carriers

Alcohol sales in the U.S. reached $250 billion in 2019, so if you’re are in the business of selling it, you need to understand the different regulations of shipping companies and relevant state laws.

Some carriers do not ship alcohol, and some states like Alabama, Oklahoma, and Utah do not allow direct alcohol shipments.

However, alcohol shipments are allowed in most states, and an adult 21 years and above must sign for the package.

The requirements for shipping alcohol differs from carrier to carrier, and we will examine the guidelines of each carrier below:

USPS Guidelines for Shipping Alcohol

USPS prohibits the shipment of alcohol domestically and internationally.

USPS also prohibits any packaging with branding or labeling that shows it can be used to carry alcohol.

FedEx Guidelines for Shipping Alcohol

FedEx permits the shipment of alcohol, but you must comply with the following requirements:

• You must have a FedEx account number
• You must complete the alcohol shipping agreement (contact your FedEx account manager to start the process)
• You must use proper packaging
• The container must be sturdy and ensure the alcohol is secure
• The packaging must secure the container in the center, away from the sidewalls of the mailer
• Use inner cushioning of EPS foam, folded corrugated tray, or molded fiber tray to prevent glass breakage
• You must use clear labeling that signifies that the package contains alcohol (get the label from the nearest FedEx office)
• The shipment must be documented as alcoholic (enter $AW in your reference field when creating your shipment on the FedEx platform)
• Delivery of the package requires an adult signature (21 years and above)

UPS guidelines for shipping alcohol

UPS also permits the shipment of alcohol subject to certain caveats:

• You must have a UPS account number
• You must sign the UPS shipping agreement (this is given on a per-contract basis for wine, beer, alcoholic beverages)
• You must be licensed and authorized to ship according to the laws of the origins and destination state
• The shipment must be to a destination state where UPS accepts the delivery of alcohol
• You must use proper packaging
• Use sturdy, corrugated cardboard boxes
• Use inner packaging of EPS foam or molded fiber tray
• Packaging must secure the liquid container to the center, away from the walls
• You must use labeling that signifies the package contains alcohol (get the labeling from the nearest UPS office)
• Package delivery requires the signature of an adult.

Shipping perfumes with the major carriers

Just like shipping alcohol, mailing perfumes and other liquid beauty products requires careful understanding of the guidelines of each carrier.

Perfumes are flammable products, you need a TSA clearance and validation that your carrier is aware you are shipping a hazardous substance. Also, perfumes should always be packed in two containers and properly labeled.

Here is an overview of the guidelines of each of the three major carriers for shipping perfumes:

USPS

• USPS does not ship perfumes containing alcohol both domestically and internationally.
• Perfumes must be packed inside a waterproof container that is properly sealed.
• If the package weighs more than 4 ounces, the liquid should be packaged three times. The original container should first be wrapped in padding to prevent breakage. Next, it should be put in a sealable container made from absorbent material. Finally, place the container in a sturdy box made specifically for that product.
• The package should be properly marked with orientation arrows and the nature of its contents should be visibly written for people to read its contents.

FedEx

• The perfume should be placed in a waterproof container and sealed with an easy-to-use lid.
• The bottle must be wrapped in padded material. If more than one perfume bottle is placed in the same box, separate padding should be used for each bottle.
• The perfume should be placed in leak-proof, waterproof inner packaging.
• Finally, it should be placed in a sturdy, rigid, outer packaging.

UPS

• UPS rules about shipping perfumes are not robustly outlined on the company’s website, but they will generally follow the same guidelines as FedEx.

Can you ship liquids internationally?

Yes, you can. The list of prohibited liquids when shipping internationally depends on the regulations of the destination country.

For example, secular countries like the U.K. or Canada will permit the shipment of alcohol, while Muslim countries like Saudi Arabia will prohibit it.

Use the FedEx Global Shipping Restrictions Information platform to determine if the liquid you are trying to ship is prohibited in the destination country.

How To Ensure That Liquids Are Safe When Shipping

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Liquids must be packaged properly to ensure it doesn't leak and destroy the container in transit.

To package liquids, you will need the following supplies:

• A waterproof and leakproof container
• Tape to seal the container
• A wine or bottle carrier to keep products upright
• Stickers to indicate it’s a fragile product
• Soft void fillers to provide cushioning
• Padding materials to protect fragile containers like glass
• Any necessary labels.

With that in mind, below are a few tips to help you package liquids safely:

• Use a double seal: a double seal is an extra layer of plastic around the cap of the bottle. It helps to ensure the lid won't pop off during shipping.
• Place the liquid container in a waterproof bag: find a bag that is big enough to hold your container, then place it inside. Seal the bag with high-quality tape.
• Organize products into a bottle carrier: kraft bottle carriers can keep liquids upright and tightly packed while preventing clinks or breakage. A custom bottle carrier can also make your products stand out during the unboxing experience, and share important information directly to your customers.
• Use a sturdy cardboard box: use a cardboard shipping box that is slightly larger than the volume of your container to create room for cushioning to protect the bottle. Use soft packing materials like eco-friendly hex wrap, generous layers of tissue paper, and biodegradable packing peanuts as cushioning if needed.
• Tape the seams of the box: use strong packing tape to seal the box. Use multiple layers of tape to ensure the box is properly secured.
• Label your box appropriately: use a sticker to indicate “liquid” and “fragile” on your box. Display the words on either side of the package and they should be legible enough for anyone to see them.

Wrapping it Up

Shipping liquids is not the easiest thing you will do, and it's a lot more complicated than shipping solid items. Hopefully, this article helps you better understand the liquids that can be shipped, and the guidelines of the major carriers for shipping liquids.

Start packaging your liquids and check out the website of your carrier of choice to create your shipment. Perfect the customer experience with packaging that elevates your hospitality or brand through practical wine carriers, custom tissue paper, QR code coasters, and more! Start shopping noissue's packaging and shipping products by your industry here.

Enjoyed this story? Check out more in our Shipping Series:

How to Ship Clothes: a Step-by-Step Guide

How to Mail Perfume, Cosmetics, and Beauty Products

How to Ship a Candle: a Step-by-Step Guide

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