Advise on shipping beers

FedEx. Cheaper than UPS and not necessarily "against the law"..
Pack tight. Use lots of bubble wrap.
Have them bathe the box in "FRAGILE" stickers.

 

I worked at FedEx for a bit during college and I don't highly recommend the fragile stickers. I saw on several occasions how they can be targets for disgruntled, overworked or otherwise angry employees on the docks. On the other hand, I don't recall anyone messing with the marked liquor that we shipped. I would recommend attaching the slip requiring a signature over by someone over 21 on delivery. I think FedEx requires it anyway.

 

It's all pretty well covered in the trading talk and help forum. Go surf around a bit and all your questions will be answered.

And don't sweat the supposed "against the law" thing. Nobody is getting arrested here (or even fined).

 

I have a question. Do they ever ask you what it is? If they do, what do you say?

 

no one asks what it is. dont sweat it

 

olive oil, baby

 

I've been asked by FedEx about the contents and I always start with "it's a gift' and then we move on to the value. Just pack it really well, no clanking bottles, etc.

 

Ok, if I say it is shampoo, would that work

 

Unless you're bald.

 

Haha, I'm good.

 

Create an online account so you can print a label at the house so you can just drop off the box and limit the face time. Always get a receipt as that's your proof they received it. Over package until you feel confident and get a few trades under your belt. If you pack the box tight you can't hear any liquid swishing. I box my boxes tight and last night I dropped a trade box off and the counter person shook the box, not sure why, and didn't say anything.

Great link right here: http://alewatcher.blogspot.com/2010/11/new-trader-tips.html?m=1

 

Advice on shipping beers? My advice is you ship them to me

 

Did they ask you what is was?

 

Aside from saying not to put a fragile sticker on, your advice is the exact opposite of best practices of shipping beer.

OP - Do not say your box contains alcohol, if you do you will not be able to ship it unless you have a license to. Then, it goes without saying, do not mark the box as liquor. Do not request a signature, no need.

 

Nope, but now I got an answer. "A shit load of shampoo."

 

Yeah, my GF gave me that idea, because she is a stylist and ships it to family and friends many of times.

 

I was asked what a package contained for the first time on Monday, probably because I reused a box that had fragile stickers. I just told her BBQ sauce and they asked if it was packed properly and I was on my way.

 

I use a local "Postal Center", they compare prices and delivery times for FedEx, UPS and USPS. The guy who runs it is totally cool and knows exactly what I am shipping so it is never a problem. Course, I set him up with a beer or two from time to time as well, just to keep things running smoothly...