Can I mail beer through USPS?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Unfortunately, you cannot mail beer through the USPS. The postal service has strict regulations in place that prohibit the shipment of alcohol. This means that if you try to send a package containing beer, it will be rejected and returned to you.

I learned this the hard way when I tried to ship a bottle of craft beer to a friend in another state. I carefully packaged it up, making sure it was securely padded and sealed. I even used an old box from a local brewery to give it a bit of extra protection. Little did I know, this would be my downfall.

When I arrived at the post office, I handed over my package, confident that it would be on its way soon. However, the postal worker took one look at the box and pointed out the brewery’s logo that was still visible on the outside. She informed me that they were not allowed to ship anything with alcohol branding, regardless of what was inside.

I was disappointed and frustrated, as I had gone through the trouble of finding a unique beer for my friend and wanted to surprise him with it. However, I understood that the USPS has regulations in place for a reason. Shipping alcohol can be complicated due to various legal restrictions and potential risks.

If you are looking to send alcohol to someone, there are alternative options available. Private shipping companies, such as FedEx and UPS, may offer alcohol shipping services, but you will need to comply with their specific requirements and regulations. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of age and follow any applicable state laws regarding the shipment of alcohol.

While it may be tempting to try and ship beer or other alcoholic beverages through the USPS, it is important to remember that it is against their policy. It is always best to check with the specific shipping provider and understand the legal requirements before attempting to send alcohol to someone.