Wholesalers, distributors and producers of wine and spirits have unique and specialized requirements when it comes to transportation and distribution. This not only includes reliability in the service they select for wine and spirits distribution, but it also includes a complete understanding and full compliance with all applicable laws.
Ideally, using a logistic company specializing in wine and spirits transportation is the best possible option. These companies are familiar with the various state laws with regards to transportation, loading and unloading. They also ensure that all drivers are fully trained and approved before they operate as carriers.
Insurance Requirements
With wine as well as spirits, trucking or logistic companies need to ensure the individual carriers have the correct insurance. This includes general liability insurance, providing protection from loss for the shipper.
Not all truckers may be aware of the need for the correct level of general liability insurance for wine and spirits distribution. Unfortunately, this lack of knowledge of the requirements can become a problem for the shipper and not just for the trucking company.
Quality Concerns
While spirits distribution tends to be less sensitive to specific types of transportation conditions, wine can be extremely sensitive. For this reason, it may be important to consider trailers that are temperature controlled for both winter and summer transportation.
With a temperature controlled cargo area, the wine or the spirits are not exposed to extreme heat or cold. This not only ensures the quality of the alcohol is maintained, but it also assists in preventing problems with damage to the shipment, particularly with sustained temperatures at below freezing levels.
Speed of Delivery
Having the confidence in the logistics company hired will be a very big factor for distilleries and wholesalers. This includes not only dealing with the regulations in transporting wine and spirits through various states, but also in ensuring delivery is on schedule.
In a highly competitive market, wholesalers and distilleries need to ensure the products will arrive at the various retailers when needed. Late deliveries, trucking problems or drivers that are unfamiliar with the routes and delivery requirements will have a negative impact in the wholesaler or manufacturer, resulting in a drop in business.
The good news is that there are logistic companies out there specializing in spirits and wine distribution. These companies have the carriers, the experienced drivers and the logistical understanding to provide quality delivery on a local or a national basis.