Question 1

Can you ship wine by air? Isn't alcohol restricted?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wine can be shipped by air. Wine (typically 12-15% ABV) is exempt from most IATA dangerous goods requirements that apply to spirits above 24% ABV. It still requires proper packaging declarations and carrier-approved wine shippers. JLog prepares all required documentation and uses approved packaging for every air freight wine shipment. FedEx and DHL both accept wine shipments when correctly packaged and declared.

Question 2

How should wine be packaged for international shipping?

Accepted Answer

Each bottle needs individual protection — foam sleeves or inflatable wine skins to prevent glass-to-glass contact. Bottles are placed in moulded Styrofoam inserts inside double-walled corrugated cartons (6 or 12 bottles per carton). All cartons are sealed with tamper-evident tape and include leakproof inner packaging. For high-value wines, JLog offers ISPM 15 compliant wooden crates with foam-lined compartments. Temperature monitoring strips or digital data loggers are included in every shipment.

Question 3

What export permits do I need to ship wine from South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Commercial wine exporters need SAWIS (South African Wine Industry Information & Systems) registration and a SARS customs export declaration (SAD500). You also need a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and excise duty documentation. Destination countries add their own requirements — UK needs HMRC registration, the EU requires excise stamps, and the US requires TTB permits. JLog handles all permit applications and documentation as your registered customs clearing agent.

Question 4

Can you collect wine directly from my estate in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek?

Accepted Answer

Yes. JLog is based in Woodstock, Cape Town — minutes from the Cape Winelands. We collect directly from wine estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, Constantia, and across the winelands region. Climate-controlled vehicles maintain optimal temperature from estate to our warehouse. You can also deliver wine to our facility if you prefer.

Question 5

How do I ship wine samples to a trade fair overseas?

Accepted Answer

JLog offers express wine sample shipments via FedEx and DHL for trade fairs, importer tastings, and new market development. We handle small-volume, time-sensitive shipments with specialist packaging and all required export documentation. Typical transit is 3-5 days to major destinations. Contact us with your trade fair dates and we will work backwards to ensure your samples arrive on time.

Wine Export Logistics from South Africa