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Wine Transport from Spain to the UK

Wine Transport from Spain to the UK

Alexander  Petrunin
by 
Alexander Petrunin
3 minutes read
Spain
April 25, 2025

Spain is one of the world’s largest wine exporters, and the United Kingdom remains a key destination for Spanish wines. Wine transport from Spain to the UK is crucial for vineyards, distributors, and retailers aiming to deliver bottles safely, on time, and in perfect condition.

Since Brexit, additional customs processes have made the route slightly more complex, but with the right logistics partner and careful planning, wine shipments can continue to flow smoothly across borders.

What Types of Wine Are Commonly Shipped

The export market from Spain to the UK typically includes:

  • Red wines from La Rioja and Ribera del Duero
  • Sparkling wines such as Cava from Catalonia
  • White wines from Rías Baixas (Albariño)
  • Organic and biodynamic wines
  • Bulk wine shipments for bottling in the UK

Different types of wine may require different packaging and temperature conditions, especially during warmer months.

How Wine Transport Works Between Spain and the UK

To ensure successful deliveries, shippers often use:

Transport TypeBest forFeatures
Refrigerated trailers (reefers)Premium and temperature-sensitive winesMaintain constant +12°C to +16°C
Dry vans with insulationStandard bottled shipmentsProtect against temperature swings
Bulk tank containersBulk wine (non-bottled)Specialized food-grade tanks

Temperature consistency is key, especially during long transit routes that cross France before reaching the UK.

Customs and Documentation After Brexit

Wine transport now requires additional customs clearance steps:

  • Export declaration from Spain
  • Import declaration into the UK
  • Commercial invoice and detailed packing list
  • EORI numbers for both shipper and consignee
  • Excise duty payment or deferred accounts in the UK
  • Labeling compliance with UK alcohol regulations

Working with customs brokers familiar with wine logistics is highly recommended to avoid delays.

How to Book Wine Freight via GetTransport.com

Booking wine transport from Spain to the UK through GetTransport.com is fast and transparent:

  1. Submit a freight request
    Include pickup winery address, destination, number of pallets, and temperature requirements.
  2. Receive offers from specialized carriers
    Get quotes from freight companies experienced in wine export logistics.
  3. Use the platform chat
    Confirm trailer types, customs paperwork assistance, and transit times.
  4. Book and prepay
    Pay either the GetTransport commission or the full price to finalize the match.
  5. Coordinate collection and customs clearance
    Ensure smooth pickup, transit, and delivery through proper documentation and communication.

Best Practices for Shipping Wine Internationally

  • Always use thermal blankets or insulated containers in summer
  • Schedule departures early in the week to avoid weekend customs closures
  • Request real-time GPS and temperature tracking for premium loads
  • Use Euro pallets and secure all cases with shrink-wrap
  • Confirm label compliance before shipment to avoid border rejections

These steps help protect valuable wine shipments from damage or delay.

Conclusion

Exporting wine from Spain to the UK remains a profitable and dynamic market opportunity. Whether shipping bottles from Rioja estates or sparkling Cava from Catalonia, careful planning, proper temperature control, and smooth customs handling are essential. With GetTransport.com, wine producers and distributors can find certified carriers and manage their shipments efficiently, ensuring that Spanish wines continue to delight British consumers.