Unicore · Freight solutions
Wine & Spirits Logistics
Specialized Transport for Alcoholic Beverages
Wine and spirits require specialized logistics expertise. From temperature control and careful handling to navigating complex international regulations, Unicore Overseas provides comprehensive logistics solutions for importers, distributors, and wineries.
Wine FCL from Valparaíso and Cape Town to Riga
Chile and South Africa are Unicore's largest wine lanes. Since May 2025 Unicore has shipped 94 wine consignments from Valparaíso and San Antonio and 54 from Cape Town to Riga, 325 containers in total. They travel in dry 20', 40' and 40'HC containers, not in reefers; more than half (82 of 148) had a thermal liner, and a temperature logger and desiccants are added on request. At Riga, Unicore handles the port work and clears the wine as excise goods into an excise warehouse.
Key Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does wine need special logistics?
Wine and spirits require temperature control to maintain quality, careful handling to prevent breakage, and expertise in complex customs and excise regulations that vary by country. We specialize in managing all these aspects.
What temperature do you maintain during transport?
We maintain optimal temperatures based on the product type, typically 12-16°C for wine. Our temperature-controlled trucks and containers ensure consistent conditions throughout the journey.
Do you handle customs and excise for alcohol?
Yes, we have extensive experience with the complex customs and excise requirements for alcoholic beverages in different countries. We handle all documentation and ensure compliance with local regulations.
What packaging is required for wine shipping?
Wine requires specialized packaging to prevent breakage and temperature fluctuations. We use approved wine shippers with insulation, dividers between bottles, and proper labeling. For bulk shipments, we can arrange palletized loads with stretch wrap and corner protectors. Our team advises on optimal packaging for your specific wine type and destination.
Can you handle wine imports and exports from Latvia?
Yes, we specialize in wine import and export logistics from Latvia to worldwide destinations. We manage all aspects including temperature-controlled transport, customs documentation, excise duty handling, health certificates, and compliance with destination country alcohol import regulations. We work with wineries, importers, distributors, and retailers.
Does wine from Chile or South Africa need a reefer container to reach Riga?
Unicore ships wine from Valparaíso, San Antonio and Cape Town to Riga in dry 20', 40' and 40'HC containers, not in reefers. More than half of these shipments (82 of 148 since May 2025) travelled with a thermal liner, and a temperature logger and desiccants against condensation are added on request. None of the 148 went in a reefer. The liner keeps temperature swings down while the box crosses the equator, and a logger, where fitted, gives the importer a temperature record on arrival in Riga.