How to Pack Glass Bottles

Two Marrin's Moving employees loading a moving truck in North Carolina

It’s advisable to pack only glass bottles that have never been opened. The materials needed to pack glass bottles are:

  • Plastic bags
  • Bubble wrap
  • Packing tape
  • Empty toilet paper roll tubes
  • Large sealable bags/Ziploc bags

To prevent spillage and leaks, wrap tape around the cap of the bottle a few times to make sure that the cap does not come off in transit.

Wrap the bottle in bubble wrap to protect it from getting bounced and breaking in transit. This layer can withstand all the impact and will act as a shock-absorber. If you are using smaller bubble wrap, make it a point to double wrap it and protect this layer with tape. For alternate options, you can roll the bottle in a large, soft garment or a towel. A sweater can also do the job.

Seal the bottle in a self-sealing bag, make sure that you have pressed out all the air and the bag does not have any holes in it.

You can place the bottle in a normal plastic bag if you don’t have any self-sealing plastic bags. Wrap the plastic bag tightly and ensure that the plastic bag is airtight with tape. For additional protection, place the bag in another plastic bag, covering the opening of the first bag.

If you are sending the bottles with the mover, you should get a divided box. Tape the bottom of the box. It’s always better to line the inside bottom of the box with cardboard or bubble wrap. Check your box to make sure it will hold the weight of the bottles. Place the bottles that are packed in the sealed bag. Wrap them with a sweater, old newspaper and/or cushioning materials.

If you are taking the glass bottles in a suitcase, place them securely in the centre of your suitcase. Carefully cushion the bottles with clothes.

In case you are flying and carrying the beverages with you, make sure to follow these guidelines: According to TSA, “You can’t take alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol content (140 proof), including 95% grain alcohol and (150 proof) rum, in your checked luggage. You may take up to five liters of alcohol with alcohol content between 24% and 70% per person as checked luggage if it’s packaged in a sealable bottle or flask.”

While passing through the U.S Customs, you have to declare your alcoholic beverages. There is a probability that you will be asked to unpack your glass bottle when going through airport security to show the contents. If you have to catch another flight, make sure that you are taking enough time to wrap the bottle back prior to placing it in your suitcase again.