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How to Ship Beer via FedEx and UPS

Beer has different rules than wine. FedEx only allows beer shipments between licensed businesses. UPS allows breweries to ship to consumers in approved states.

FedEx Rules for Beer

Craft beer cans secured in a cardboard box with divider inserts and shipping label

FedEx only permits beer shipments licensee-to-licensee — from one licensed business to another licensed business. Beer cannot be shipped directly to consumers through FedEx.

  • Shipper must be a FedEx-approved alcohol shipper with a signed agreement
  • Recipient must be a licensed business entity
  • Adult Signature Required on delivery
  • Special alcohol shipping label required
  • Proper packaging: EPS foam, corrugated dividers, sturdy outer box

Note: FedEx has not traditionally offered a specific beer shipping program in the same way they do for wine. Check with your FedEx account executive.

UPS Rules for Beer

UPS accepts beer shipments under a UPS Agreement for Approved Beer Shippers. The rules vary by shipment type:

  • Licensee-to-Licensee: Beer can ship between licensed businesses (brewery → distributor → retailer) in compliance with all laws
  • Direct to Consumer: Breweries and licensed retailers may ship beer to consumers in states that allow it, subject to approval
  • Interstate Brewery Shipments: Certain states allow out-of-state breweries to ship to consumers (listed in Beer Addendum A)
  • Intrastate Brewery Shipments: Some states allow in-state brewery shipments to consumers
  • Adult Signature Required on all deliveries
  • Approved packaging with EPS foam or corrugated dividers
  • Alcohol shipping label required

Who Cannot Ship Beer

Individuals cannot ship beer through either carrier. Homebrewers, beer enthusiasts, and gift-givers cannot tender beer shipments through FedEx or UPS.

Your options:

  • Check if your local brewery has a direct shipping program
  • Use a licensed retailer that ships beer
  • Bring it with you when traveling

We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. This information is for educational purposes and reflects carrier policies as we understand them. Laws vary by state and change frequently. Always consult the carrier directly and review applicable federal and state regulations before shipping regulated items.

Reference: UPS official beer shipping policy →

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to the most common questions about packaging, carriers, pricing, and what to expect.

Can I ship homebrew through FedEx or UPS?
No — homebrew is still alcohol and requires a license and carrier contract to ship legally.
Can a brewery ship beer directly to me?
In some states, yes. UPS allows Direct to Consumer beer shipments from licensed breweries in approved states. Check with the brewery — they will know if they can ship to your state.
Is shipping beer different from shipping wine?
Yes. FedEx treats beer differently — it is licensee-to-licensee only, not to consumers. UPS has separate agreements and Addendum A for beer vs. wine. Always check carrier policies.

We cannot ship beer, but we can handle everything else. Come see us in Concord Township.

Contact Us →
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