I'm traveling for the holidays and the beer is coming with me both ways. I'm wondering if there is any information online on laws of transportation. I'll be in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. Can it go in the back seat, or does it need to go in the trunk?
I'm not aware of any restrictions as long as it is not opened. I have carried it in the back seat and in the back of a van on many occasions across multiple state lines. Enjoy!!
I'm not sure by any means, but I grew up with the understanding that you are not supposed to be transporting any alcohol across state lines. That being said, it's a stupid law. I'm in Indiana and as long as you're sober....drive on good sir.
Just don't do anything to get stopped by the cops, and you should be all set. To make sure, at least have it out of easy sight of anyone walking up to the driver's side window.
The safest bet would be in your trunk. If it's in plain sight, unopened or not, and you get pulled over, it might give them reason to do a sobriety check. But, as always, just obey traffic lawsand you'll be fine.
I don't think crossing state lines with an amount for "personal consumption" is illegal. Just keep it out of sight (cover it with a blanket or put it in the trunk) and don't drive drunk. Cops can only do a search if they have a "reasonable" idea that you might be breaking the law. I've heard about folks going over state lines to buy beer in NH (no sales tax, iirc) and return to neighboring states only to be stopped/arrested/ticketed when crossing state lines as they had cops sitting at liquor/beer stores near the state line watching/recording them do it.
Aren't these two statements contradictory? Many states have laws that prohibit or limit the amount of alcoholic beverages that can be brought in from out of state, mostly because those products have not paid the applicable state excise and sales taxes. For an example, here's NJ's old language (currently being updated to allow out-of-state mail order wine): So, even though the beer limit makes no sense (either 3 gallons in cans/bottles OR 7.75 gallons in a keg?) and it's not as if there's a ABC border guard station on every bridge and roadway,) it is technically illegal over those limits.
A weird and wonderful thread! The continent of Europe is more enlightened. Anyone can carry the following back without having to justify it as long as it's for personal use; 10 litres spirits 20 litres of fortified wine (sherry, port etc) 90 litres of wine 110 litres of beer That's between different countries mind you! This is provided tax and duty has been paid at the time of purchase; as these charges are lower in Europe there's a lot of white vans full of booze in the Channel at any time! If you are buying drinks say for a wedding and can explain why you need the amount you can bring in more without penalty.This is what my cousin did for his daughter's wedding; drove to the ferry port, got the ferry and bought his drink before returning. The lower prices more than paid for his costs , he was well in pocket afterwards. Looks like your laws need updating a bit , if it can be done between sovereign countries surely it's possible between states?
I'm talkin' people getting a months' worth of BMC or whatever and crossing over. I don't think they care about small quantities. Doesn't Massachusetts limit the amount of booze you can have in your car at any time (bought IN the state?) That's still a thing, right? I remember my mom, who is from Boston, telling me something along those lines when I was buying for a family party up there a few years ago.
I just flew from NYC to ATL and checked 2 bombers and 2 six-packs, TSA searched my luggage and didn't mind a bit. I know vehicles are another issue, but I don't think the across state lines thing should give you too much heartache.
i don't know. i have heard stories of people crossing state lines particularly to/fro Kentucky & being stopped for exceeding limitation laws. it seems like TN is especially suspicious of vehicles that head to KY & back. maybe i'm noid, but i'd go with the trunk. filling the back seat, if stopped for whatever reason, probably would give the impression the trunk is full of other things (that might prompt curiosity). besides, the trunk restricts light. jmho
The reason for under the back seat is so I can wedge it in place behind the seat and keep a loose eye on it. I've put bottles in the trunk before and the frist thig I hear after starting from a red light is "Thunk, Clank!" The roll around and I worry that they'll break. Other than the beer I've got nothin` to hide. I'm a good boy.
