Complete Guide to Importing Wine into the United States

This guide is designed for commercial importers bringing wine into the US from countries without existing trade agreements. For personal importation, different rules apply. Always consult with a licensed customs broker or trade attorney for the most current requirements.

Step 1: Obtain Required Permits

All permits must be obtained before initiating any wine importation. Processing times vary significantly, so plan accordingly.

Federal Basic Importer's Permit (TTB F 5100.24)
- Apply through TTB's Permits Online system
- No application fee required
- Processing time: 60-90 days
- Must maintain staffed US business office
FDA Registration
- Register facility under Bioterrorism Act
- Renewal required every 2 years
- Must designate US agent
State-Specific Requirements
- Importer's license for each state of operation
- Wholesaler permits if distributing
- State-specific bond requirements
- Local business licenses

Step 2: Label Compliance

Each unique label requires separate COLA approval. Plan for 3-4 weeks processing time per label.

Certificate of Label Approval (COLA) Requirements
- Submit via COLAs Online system
- Separate application for each brand, type, and size
- Pre-COLA product evaluation may be required
Mandatory Label Information
- Brand Name
- Class/Type Designation
- Alcohol Content (stated as % by volume)
- Net Contents (metric standards required)
- Country of Origin (clear and conspicuous)
- Name and Address of Importer
- Government Warning Statement (exact prescribed text)
- Health Warning Statement Requirements
- Sulfite Declaration (if applicable)
Font Size Requirements
- Government Warning: 2mm minimum for containers > 187ml
- Brand Name: 2mm minimum
- Other mandatory information: 1mm minimum

Step 3: Documentation Requirements

All documentation must be in English or accompanied by certified English translations.

Natural Wine Certificate Requirements
- Production process certification
- Laboratory analysis results
- Certification of proper cellar treatment
- Valid for specific vintage/production lot only
Certificate of Age and Origin
- Issued by country of origin's government authority
- Must specify wine classification
- Production date verification
- Geographic indication certification (if applicable)
Laboratory Analysis Requirements
- Alcohol content verification
- Chemical composition analysis
- Sulfite levels
- Must be from certified laboratory

Step 4: Tax and Duty Considerations

All taxes and duties must be paid before wine can clear customs. Consider these costs in pricing calculations.

Federal Excise Tax Rates (as of 2024)
- Still wines ≤14% alcohol: $1.07/wine gallon
- 14-21% alcohol: $1.57/wine gallon
- 21-24% alcohol: $3.15/wine gallon
- Sparkling wines: $3.40/wine gallon
Customs Duties
- Harmonized Tariff Schedule classification
- Country-specific duty rates
- Additional fees and harbor maintenance tax
State Tax Considerations
- Varies by state of import entry
- Additional local taxes may apply
- Bond requirements

Step 5: Logistics and Compliance

Proper handling and documentation throughout the supply chain is critical for compliance.

Transportation Requirements
- Temperature-controlled containers (55-65°F)
- Proper orientation during shipping
- Humidity control (50-70%)
- Shock monitoring devices recommended
Customs Clearance Process
- File FDA Prior Notice (minimum 8 hours before arrival)
- Customs entry documentation
- Physical inspection arrangements
- Temperature monitoring records
Record Keeping Requirements
- Import documentation (4 years minimum)
- Temperature logs during transit
- Chain of custody documentation
- Customs clearance records
- Payment records for taxes and duties

Key Organizations

Government Agencies
- TTB - Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau
- FDA - Food and Drug Administration
- CBP - U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Industry Organizations
- Wine Institute
- National Association of Beverage Importers
- Beverage Alcohol Importers Association