Imported red wine is prone to quality degradation due to temperature fluctuations, vibrations, oxidation and other factors during transportation, and scientific management and technical means are needed to prevent and control it comprehensively. The following are key measures:
- Temperature control management (core elements)
Constant temperature transportation
Maintain 12-18℃ (adjusted according to the wine, such as 15℃ for Bordeaux), avoid high temperature accelerating oxidation or low temperature causing precipitation.
Use refrigerated containers (Reefer Container) or freight vehicles with temperature control to monitor and record temperature in real time.
Avoid sudden temperature changes
Pre-cool the container for 24 hours before and after transportation to prevent condensed water from contaminating the label or cork from mildew.
Prioritize temperature-controlled warehouses during transit to avoid outdoor detention.
- Shockproof and packaging optimization
Shock-resistant packaging design
Use EPS foam mold boxes or inflatable bags to fix the bottle body to reduce shaking.
Heavy cartons must pass the ISTA 3A transportation test to ensure compression and drop resistance.
Choice of transport mode
For sea transport, it is preferred to load the wine in the cabin (not on the deck) to reduce turbulence; avoid mixing with other vibrating goods during air transport.
- Isolation of oxygen and humidity control
Inert gas protection
High-end wines can be filled with nitrogen or argon to replace the air at the top of the bottle and delay oxidation (professional equipment is required).
Wines with screw caps or glass stoppers are more resistant to long-distance transportation.
Humidity maintenance (60-70% RH)
Excessive dryness causes the cork to shrink, and excessive moisture breeds mold. You can add a humidity adjustment bag or a built-in humidity sensor in the container.
- Choice of logistics supplier
Professional wine logistics provider
Prefer companies with wine transportation qualifications such as Bolloré Logistics and Kuehne+Nagel to ensure the compliance of the entire cold chain and production areas such as DOCG/AOC.
Confirmation of insurance terms
Insure the entire cargo damage insurance, and clarify the claims standards such as temperature exceeding the standard and damage (such as TT Club or professional wine insurance).
- Customs clearance and terminal delivery
Quick customs clearance
Prepare documents such as certificate of origin, health certificate, import license, etc. in advance to avoid temperature out of control due to port delay.
China needs to pay attention to tariff and value-added tax policies (such as the current comprehensive tax rate of about 43.14%).
The last mile delivery
Use vehicles with temperature control for delivery, avoid daytime transportation in summer, and inspect the wine status immediately after arrival.
VI. Special risk response
Sea salt spray corrosion: VCI anti-rust sheets are placed in the container to protect the metal bottle seal.
Light pollution protection: UV barrier film wrapping or dark containers are used to prevent ultraviolet rays from damaging tannins.
Appendix: Acceptance standard recommendations
Check after arrival:
Is the liquid level lower than the bottleneck (possible leakage or excessive evaporation).
Is the cork bulging (expansion caused by high temperature).
The turbidity of the wine (abnormal precipitation caused by severe vibration).
The above measures can maximize the original quality of the wine. For top-quality wines (such as Burgundy Grand Cru), it is recommended to use door-to-door services provided by professional wine transport companies. Although the cost is high, the risk is controllable.