Ask the Collective

What courier services and logistics methods should we use to send alcoholic samples internationally?

Sending samples across borders involves trade-offs between cost, reliability, and simplicity. For European routes (e.g. Dublin, mainland Europe), members have had mixed experiences with major carriers: **For shipments to Dublin and Europe:** - **UPS** — recommended by multiple members as reliable and usually cost-effective - **DHL** — generally praised as "usually pretty good" - **FedEx** — reported as "great for non-alc samples into Dublin" - **Parcelforce Worldwide** — one member experienced unexplained returns, so less reliable - **Avoid UPS in some cases** — one member reported they were "awful" for Dublin shipments (mixed feedback) **For shipments to India:** Members strongly cautioned against sending cases of samples to India, citing "logistical and taxation nightmare" issues. The more practical workaround is to add small quantities as free goods (with nominal value) to a distributor's next order, rather than shipping independently. **Alternative low-cost approach:** - **Hand-carry / mule it in** — if personally travelling to the destination, carrying samples yourself avoids courier hassles entirely (suggested for India route). **Caveats:** Alcoholic samples face stricter regulations than general goods; courier experiences vary by route and timing. Parcelforce had unexplained return issues in at least one recent case. Always check with your chosen courier on alcohol-specific restrictions before booking.