How to move a wine collection

Moving valuable and fragile items requires careful planning, and your wine collection is no exception. Whether you have a small collection or a cellar full of rare vintages, learning how to move wine your collection safely will protect your investment.

With temperature-sensitive bottles and delicate packaging to consider, working with a professional removalist or interstate removalist can make all the difference. Wine by nature has a delicate character that is subject to fluctuations in movement, light and temperature. Wine therefore has a certain volatility that can inhibit its flavour by being affected by the above factors.

Steps for how to move your wine collection

Moving wine is not just about packing carefully – it also involves managing conditions like temperature, timing, and transportation. Follow these steps to make sure your wine collection arrives in perfect condition. 

1. Assess your wine collection

Before you begin packing, take inventory of your collection. This can help you identify which bottles need extra care and serve as a reference in case any bottles are damaged during the move. If you’re hiring an interstate mover, an inventory will also assist with insurance claims, if needed. For large valuable collections it may be worthwhile to have a valuation or appraisal done by a wine valuer. These professionals can be contacted through your chosen wine merchant.

Steps to assessing your collection: 

• Identify temperature-sensitive wines, such as sparkling wines or aged reds.
• Your valuable reds in particular should be transported at preferably no more than 12.7 deg. C 
• This of course implies the need for temperature-controlled shipping logistics
• Note valuable or rare bottles that may require special handling or insurance coverage.

2. Gather packing materials

Proper materials are essential to keep your wine secure during the move. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Wine shipping boxes with dividers
• Bubble wrap or foam padding or styrofoam packing
• Packing tape and labels
• Insulated or climate-controlled packaging (for long-distance or summer moves)
• Strapping and buckles for maintaining carton integrity and security

Some removalists offer specialised wine packaging for fragile items, so it’s worth asking about these options.

3. Pack wine bottles correctly

• Wrap individual bottles: Use bubble wrap or foam to cushion each bottle. Pay extra attention to older wines with fragile corks.
• Place bottles on their side just as you would at home to keep the corks moist.
• Use dividers: Wine boxes with cardboard dividers keep bottles from touching and breaking during transit. Fill any gaps with crumpled paper to minimise movement.

4. Consider temperature and timing

Wine can be damaged by heat, so avoid moving your collection during extreme weather conditions. For longer trips, such as with an interstate mover, it’s best to transport wine in a temperature-controlled vehicle. A climate-controlled van or your own air conditioned car may be options for smaller collections.

• If possible, plan the move early in the day or late in the evening to avoid high temperatures.
• Select shaded or covered parking during transit or on arrival to limit exposure to direct heat from the sun
• Insulated packaging can help maintain stable temperatures during the move.

5. Label and insure your collection

Clearly label your wine boxes as “Fragile – Wine” to ensure careful handling. If your collection contains high-value bottles, you might also want to invest in additional insurance. Some interstate movers offer coverage for wine collections, giving you added peace of mind. Ensure your mover is made aware of your high-value wine collection so that they can make appropriate arrangements for its safe transport.

Tips for moving wine collection safely

• Avoid opening bottles right away: Allow your wine to rest for at least 7 days after the move to recover from “bottle shock” which can adversely affect taste. 
• If you are moving wine across Australian state borders, check for any restrictions or duties that may apply.
• Hire a removalist with experience in wine transport: A professional removalist or interstate mover with wine-handling experience will ensure your collection is transported with the care it deserves.

Knowing how to move the wine collection properly will protect your valuable bottles from damage and ensure they are ready for you to enjoy in your new home. Whether you are moving locally or using an interstate mover, careful preparation and proper packing materials are key to a smooth transition in addition to proper temperature-controlled logistics.

With these tips, your wine collection will stay safe and secure, ready for you to enjoy once you’ve settled in your new space. Here’s cheers to a stress-free move and exciting adventures in your new home!

For more help with delicate, large or tricky items, check out our moving house packing guide.

Happy Moving!