Whether you’re a wine lover or just enjoy the occasional glass, your wine collection is likely something you value. That’s why it’s important to move it with care. When packed and handled properly, your bottles can arrive safely and be ready to enjoy in your new place.
Wine collections can be worth a lot of money, so it’s a good idea to first find out the total value of your collection. Once you know that, you can decide how to move it—either with a regular moving company or one that offers climate-controlled transport to keep your wine in top condition.
Wine Moving Tips – Getting It There Safely
Most professional movers can handle wine collections but if you’re moving in very hot or cold weather, ask about climate-controlled options. Wine can get damaged by extreme temperatures, so it’s smart to get a quote that includes a temperature-controlled truck. When someone comes to your home for an estimate, be sure to ask if this option is available and what it would cost.
Know the Value of Your Wine Collection
If your wine collection is valuable, it’s a good idea to have it professionally appraised before you move. You can ask a nearby wine shop or a fine wine distributor to help you find a trusted appraiser—they usually know someone who can do it.
If you don’t have a big wine collection, you might want to move it in your own car. This lets you watch over it and make sure the temperature stays just right during the drive.
Wine Moving Tips – Packing
Packing wine needs special care to avoid any damage. Professional movers know how to do it properly but if you’re packing it yourself, try to use boxes made for shipping wine—like the ones airlines use. These boxes are often made of Styrofoam or thick cardboard and give your bottles good protection. You can usually buy them at local wine stores.
Final Wine Moving Tips to Keep in Mind
When packing your wine, lay the bottles on their sides, just like how you normally store them at home.
Even if you’re really careful while moving, the wine can still get shaken up which is called “bottle shock.” If you open it right away, it might not taste the way it should. It’s better to let the bottles rest for about a week before opening them.
These tips are meant to help you move your wine safely to your new home. Whether you’re taking the bottles yourself or using a moving company, handle everything with care. Wine might be a fun hobby or something you truly love—but either way, it should be moved gently and thoughtfully.
