Each relocation presents unique challenges. Some individuals may require the transportation of a hot tub, while others may need to move their prized wine collection. In either scenario, meticulous preparation and organization are essential for a successful outcome.
Timely initiation of preparations is crucial to avoid undue stress and anxiety. With the appropriate knowledge and expertise, any relocation can be accomplished with ease. We offer invaluable advice on relocating a wine collection that is sure to be of great benefit to you.
Check the State Laws
If you are moving internationally, always check whether there are some restrictions on alcohol. Most countries have regulations about the amount of alcohol that can be imported. Do not let this discourage you, just contact the department that is dealing with alcohol and ask them what should you do in order to relocate your wine collection. If you do not do this, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise at the border.
Appraise Your Wine Collection
Please contact a nearby wine merchant and request their recommendation for a suitable wine appraiser. A wine appraiser will provide you with an accurate valuation of your wine collection, which will determine the appropriate transportation and handling methods.
For instance, if your wine collection is not of significant value, you may transport it in your personal vehicle. However, if the value is substantial, engaging the services of specialists is advisable.
Take Photos Of Your Wine Collection
Before the relocation, and before packing your wine bottles, photograph them. Photograph each bottle of wine that you own. This is even better than making an inventory list, which we also highly recommend that you do. Taking photos of the inventory is beneficial because in case of loss and damage, you will know exactly what happened. The photos are excellent evidence for a claim that you will be able to make if you hire professionals.
Right Temperature
During the process of relocating wine, it is important to note that the bottle may be susceptible to breakage. However, even if the temperature is maintained at an appropriate level, the wine itself may still undergo changes in taste. Specifically, if the temperature is too high or too low, the quality of the wine may be compromised, potentially ruining a collection that has been carefully curated over the course of several years.
To ensure optimal conditions for wine relocation, it is recommended that a temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit be maintained. While certain types of wine, such as white wine and less expensive varieties, may be able to withstand lower temperatures, 55 degrees Fahrenheit is generally considered to be the ideal temperature.
If transporting wine in a personal vehicle, it is important to take measures to regulate the temperature accordingly. Alternatively, if enlisting the services of professional movers, they will possess the necessary expertise to ensure that the wine is transported under optimal conditions.
Furthermore, the best period of the year when you should relocate wine is in spring or fall. This is because the temperatures are not extreme in these periods, and the wine will not suffer from sudden temperature change. If possible, you should not relocate your wine collection in summer or winter.
Pack Wine Bottles Correctly
To increase the likelihood of your wine bottles surviving the relocation, it is imperative that they are packed appropriately. The initial step in this process is to procure suitable moving boxes specifically designed for wine transportation. One may contact a nearby wine store or inquire with their chosen movers regarding the availability of such boxes. These boxes are equipped with Styrofoam cell dividers that provide optimal protection for the bottles.
If your bottles have corks, make sure that they are placed upside down. It is important that the cork is wet at all times. Packing services are high-quality and we can recommend them for absolutely everything that you need, including your wine bottles. Additionally, if you have already opened bottles, do not pack them. It is not safe and can cause damage to other bottles as well.
Label Moving Boxes
Labeling your wine boxes is the best thing that you can for your wine collection. It is important that the labels Fragile, This side up, and This side down are clearly visible. Label at least three sides of the moving boxes in order to protect your wine collection. You can download the labels on the Internet, completely for free. Of course, you can use a permanent marker, that is waterproof and write the label on the boxes.
Hire Moving Company To Move Wine Collection
If your wine appraiser has determined that you have a valuable wine collection, the safest thing you can do is to hire professionals. Your moving company can connect you to a company specialized in wine transportation. There is no reason to risk your wine changing taste, or bottles getting damaged, especially if your collection is too big to fit in a car.
Another great thing about hiring movers is definitely moving insurance. Even if something does happen to your inventory, you will be compensated for any damage or loss of it. Just make sure to inform your movers if the item value exceeds $100 per pound. It will be necessary to fill in a High-value form, but these are just formalities and they will inform you if anything else is needed. You will be at peace knowing that you are ensured from any accident.
After the Move Avoid Bottle Shock
The last tip is concerned about the period after the move. Once you get your wine bottles safely to your new home, do not open it right away. There is a rule that says that for every day the bottles were in transit, they should rest for seven days.
So, if you were on the move for two days, you should not open the bottles for at least 14 days. This is simply because the wine can lose flavor after being in transit. Since it is easy to avoid this situation, let the wine rest for as much as possible, and enjoy it later.
Moving your wine collection does not have to be stressful. Follow our useful tips, and soon you will be able to enjoy your fines bottles of wine.