Shipping wine to Europe has particularities specific to each country, in terms of regulations, logistics and consumer preferences. Understanding these nuances is critical to optimizing your shipments and ensuring their success.

Germany is a key player in importing wine into Europe. The authorities impose a 19% VAT and require labelling in German, including the mention of allergens and a lot number. Demand for organic wines is strong there, supported by efficient logistics thanks to a quality road network and specialized distribution centers. The average delivery time for this contract is two to three working days.
Since Brexit, exporting wine to the United Kingdom involves new formalities, such as a customs declaration, a British EORI number, and specific VI-1 documents. These changes lead to extended timelines (four to five business days) and increased administrative costs. Temporary storage in a free zone can be strategic to respond to frequent customs controls.
Thanks to its central geographical position and its port infrastructures, Belgium is an essential logistics hub in Europe. Customs procedures are simplified there, facilitating rapid transit to other European countries. However, bilingual documentation in French and Dutch, as well as compliance with European storage standards, are necessary. The average delivery times are very short: one to two working days.
The Netherlands stands out for its automated ports and efficient multimodal connections. They apply 21% VAT on wine and ask for labelling in Dutch. Thanks to modern logistics centers and advanced tracking solutions, delivery times are between two and three working days. Strict storage standards are a key criterion for this market.
In Italy, local wine culture is omnipresent, raising consumer expectations. Importers must provide detailed documentation and ensure high quality products. Import controls are rigorous, as are storage requirements, which are often air-conditioned. Delays vary between three and five days depending on the region, due to complex road infrastructure.
Spain's Mediterranean climate requires particular attention to the transport of wine. Thermal protection and air-conditioned storage are essential to maintain the quality of bottles. Morning deliveries are often preferred to avoid hot weather. Administrative formalities include health certificates and documentation in Spanish. The average delivery time is between two and four working days.
As a wine transport specialist, Pelican Air Services has developed unique expertise to meet the specific challenges of each European market. Our technological commitment is reflected in an innovative digital platform that allows instant cost calculation, integrating taxes and customs fees, as well as the automation of customs formalities. Our real-time traceability system, equipped with temperature alerts, guarantees optimal tracking of shipments.
Environmental excellence is a pillar of our approach, with the use of certified eco-responsible packaging and the constant optimization of itineraries to minimize our carbon footprint. We collaborate exclusively with transporters committed to a sustainable development approach and ensure the systematic recycling of our packaging materials.
Our customers benefit from a premium service including real-time temperature monitoring with instant alerts and all-risk insurance that is systematically included. Our multilingual team remains available seven days a week to answer any questions, while our specialized customs expertise and reinforced packaging system ensure optimal protection of shipments.
Each expedition is accompanied by accurate documentation adapted to local requirements. Our reinforced packaging ensures optimal protection during transport, and our tracking solutions make it possible to monitor each stage of the shipment. We guarantee respected deadlines thanks to rigorous planning and proven logistical expertise.
The expert's word:” Shipping wine to Europe requires a thorough mastery of the particularities of each market. Thanks to its expertise and its network, Pelican Air Services guarantees reliable and optimized deliveries in all European countries.
To benefit from personalized support and discover our tailor-made solutions, contact our team of experts. We put our experience at the service of your expeditions to ensure the smooth transport of your wines across Europe.”