Printable Version Worldwide Customs & Regulatory Updates

New Regulations for Importing Alcoholic Beverages to the U.S.

 

New regulations now apply to the import of alcoholic beverage shipments into the U.S. Among the requirements is that both the shipper and the consignee must be licensed to handle such shipments before handing them over to FedEx.

 

As a result of the new regulations:

 

• Shipments of alcoholic beverages from an international location to non-licensed parties in the U.S.
  are prohibited;

• Shipments of alcoholic beverages to individuals are prohibited. In addition, gift and personal use
  provisions are not applicable to alcoholic beverages; and,

• With the exception of Massachusetts, alcohol beverage shipments can be shipped to every state
  and to the District of Columbia. Shipping of alcohol beverages into, out of, or within the state of
  Massachusetts is not currently available.

 

In addition, such shipments will be subject to the following:

 

• The shipper is required to provide Prior Notification (PN) for FDA compliance prior to tendering the
  shipment to FedEx, as shipments of alcoholic beverages and wine are considered “Food” items.

• The consignee must provide a "Basic Permit for Importer and/or Wholesaler" issued by the U.S.
  Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF); and,

• The consignee must provide a state-issued license/permit; if the consignee does not have a valid
  license, he/she should apply for one prior to the item’s importation.

• Country of origin certification is required for all wines and distilled spirits shipments to the U.S.

 

If you require further information, or have any questions about alcoholic beverage shipments, please contact your local Customer Service team.