Wine import from Italy – key considerations for shipping wine from Italy
The thought of fine Italian wines is already sparking interest among your customers. If only the complex import process didn’t stand in the way. Piles of paperwork, endless phone calls and emails, and fears of European or international import bureaucracy quickly lead to a dry throat.
But don’t worry: with this blog post and the support of Vianello Wines, the seemingly huge bureaucratic monster of ‘importing wine from Italy’ turns into a manageable task. Now you can confidently offer your customers outstanding Italian wines at direct import prices.
Wine import: What are the key considerations when importing wine?
Of course, the process of importing wines from Italy varies greatly depending on whether you operate within the EU or outside of it. In any case there are four main areas to consider: taxes, import regulations, regulatory issues and transport matters.
While there is some overlap between the topics, we intend to give you a clear and straightforward overview of the main aspects of the wine import process. We will also highlight some of the differences between importing within the EU and outside of it.
Are you looking for a quick overview of the ordering process at Vianello Wines? In the following article, we provide a stepwise guide on what to consider: How to import wine from Italy: Ordering process step-by-step.
Wine import into EU countries
Importing wine from Italy within the EU is relatively straightforward thanks to the EU’s single market, which allows the free movement of goods without customs duties. However, there are still some important considerations to keep in mind.
Tax related questions
VAT (value-added-tax)
The VAT is charged in the destination country. Each EU member state sets its own VAT rate, and these rates differ significantly across the EU. Generally, the standard VAT rate applies to wine.
When importing wine from another EU country such as Italy, the reverse charge mechanism often applies. This allows businesses to avoid double taxation and delays at the border. As a business, you report the VAT in your home country’s VAT return and can typically reclaim it as an input VAT, if the wine is resold or used for business purposes.
Excise Duty
Wine is subject to excise duties in many EU countries. Unlike VAT, excise duty is based on volume or alcohol content (measured in % ABV) rather than the price of the wine. Generally, higher ABV wines and larger quantities incur higher excise duties. In most cases, the duty is paid by the importer or distributor in the country of destination.
The excise duty differs for still and sparkling wine. Most still wines, for example Italian red wines are subject to a lower rate of excise duty, whereas sparkling wines usually incur a higher excise tax.
Each EU country sets its own rates, so excise duty varies widely. For example, in Germany the excise duty on still wine is zero, whereas countries like Ireland and the Nordic countries have some of the highest rates in the EU.
Some countries differ the excise duty rate between “Spumante” (a fully sparkling wine, typically above 3 and up to 6 bars of pressure in the bottle) and “Frizzante” (a semi-sparkling wine, usually between 1 to maximum 2.5 bars of pressure), with a higher rate for Spumante and a lower rate for Frizzante. For accurate rates, it is best to consult the excise policies of the specific EU country where the wine will be sold or imported, as duty structures vary.
Customs and import regulations
One of the key advantages of the EU’s single market is the absence of customs duties on goods moving between EU member states, including wine. This means that if you’re importing wine from Italy to another EU country, there’s no import duty. Within the EU, goods generally move freely across borders, which simplifies customs and import regulations, but there are still certain rules to follow when importing goods like wine.
Importer Registration
In some EU countries, importing wine requires a license or permit, especially if importing large quantities. For example, some countries may require wine importers to register with the local excise or customs authority or obtain a license to handle alcohol. Check with your local tax or trade authority.
Simplified Administrative Document (SAD)
The Simplified Administrative Document (SAD) or similar documentation is often used for tracking excise goods (like wine) when they are transferred under duty suspension within the EU. This helps ensure that excise duties are eventually paid at the appropriate destination.
Excise Movement and Control System (EMCS)
Wine transport often requires electronic registration in the EMCS to monitor goods’ movement, ensuring duties are paid at the destination. This system electronically monitors the movement of excise goods within the EU. Any movements of wine under duty suspension must be registered in the EMCS to track the transport and record when the duty is due.
Our wineries will issue the required customs documents for your shipment. The winery will need either your excise tax number or that of the forwarder for this purpose.
For any additional questions about taxes or customs, our back-office team is here to assist you.
Regulatory topics including labelling and packaging
Wine production standards, food safety and traceability
All imported wine must adhere to EU wine production standards, which cover everything from permissible additives to quality requirements. If the wine was produced within the EU, compliance is usually assumed, but authorities may require proof for certain specialty or new products. Wine, like other food products, must comply with EU food safety standards. Importers need to be able to trace the wine’s origin, production details, and transport history to meet EU regulations on food safety and traceability.
As an importer, you must ensure that the imported goods comply with the relevant food regulations. However, you do not need to check this yourself, as it can be proven with existing certificates. This is exactly why importing wine with the support of Vianello Wines is so convenient, as our wineries are familiar with the legal requirements and can provide you with all the necessary documents.
Standardized labeling across the EU
There are also specific regulations regarding labelling and the required information on wine labels. Wine labeling in the EU is standardized, so all wines must comply with EU labeling regulations. This includes details such as alcohol content, volume, origin, producer, responsible bottler, and allergen information. These labels must also be in the official language(s) of the destination country.
When importing wine with Vianello Wines, you can rest assured that these regulations are taken care of. Our wineries know all the requirements, and you can rely on us to ensure that all our products are labeled in full legal compliance, including the new EU labelling regulation to include nutritional and ingredient information on wine labels.
Packaging compliance
Packaging compliance in the EU is centered on the responsibility of wine producers and importers to manage the lifecycle of their packaging, reduce waste, and meet recycling targets. Some EU countries have packaging laws that apply to imported goods. If you’re importing bottled wine, you may need to comply with recycling and packaging waste regulations, especially for large volumes.
Producers must also follow national regulations, which can vary, and bear costs related to compliance fees and waste management systems. As environmental concerns grow, sustainable packaging choices are increasingly emphasized in the wine industry.
Transport matters to be on the safe side
Let’s briefly touch on the transport aspect as we wrap up. After all, your wines need to make the long journey to your location. We are happy to connect you with a reliable shipping company which covers most of the European countries. Please contact us to check, if your country is served too.
A key factor in the transportation of wine is to ensure that the goods are securely packaged, and the pallets are packed properly. At Vianello Wines, we make sure that stable pallets can be assembled from the ordered quantities as part of the import logistics. This way, you can be confident that, under normal conditions, all goods will arrive safely at your destination.
Finally, when moving wine commercially, a transport manifest that specifies the origin, type, and quantity of wine is often required. This is particularly important for excisable goods like alcohol.
Wine import into non-EU countries: specific regulations
Importing wine from Italy into non-EU countries involves additional considerations compared to trade within the EU. Here are the key factors to consider.
Import duties, tariffs and taxes
Unlike within the EU, most non-EU countries impose import duties on wine imports. The rate of duty will depend on the specific non-EU country you’re importing to and may vary based on factors such as the type of wine (e.g., red, white, sparkling) and alcohol content.
Customs duties are usually calculated based on the customs value, which includes the cost of the wine itself, freight charges, and insurance (CIF value). You will need to provide detailed invoices and shipping documents for the customs declaration. Ensure that the wine is classified under the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for wine. Inaccurate classification can lead to customs delays or additional charges.
Some non-EU countries may have Free Trade Agreements with the EU, which could reduce or eliminate tariffs on wine imports.
Non-EU countries often impose excise taxes on alcohol, including wine. These taxes can be significant and are usually paid at the time of importation, or when the wine is released for sale within the country. The rate of excise tax can vary depending on the type of wine, its alcohol content, and other factors.
Some non-EU countries charge VAT or GST on imported goods, including wine. The rate can vary by country, and the VAT/GST is usually payable at the time of importation.
Import regulations
Many non-EU countries require an import license or permit for alcoholic beverages. The process for obtaining these licenses varies by country and may involve a significant amount of paperwork and regulatory approvals.
Different countries have specific regulations governing alcohol imports, including restrictions on alcohol content, labeling requirements, and product safety. Some countries require certifications that the wine complies with food safety and hygiene regulations. This may include proof that the wine is free from harmful substances, allergens, or contaminants.
Labeling and packaging compliance
Non-EU countries may have stricter labeling requirements for wine, which could include language, health warnings, alcohol content, and certification marks. Labels might also need to be translated into the local language.
Ensure that the packaging complies with the destination country’s regulations. This may include restrictions on packaging materials (e.g., glass, plastic), the use of eco-friendly packaging, or specific requirements for bottle sizes.
Customs regulations and certifications
You will need to complete a customs declaration and provide all necessary documentation, such as the invoice, bill of lading, and certificate of origin (if required).
Some non-EU countries require a Certificate of Origin to verify the provenance of the wine, particularly if you are claiming preferential tariffs under a Free Trade Agreement.
Some countries also require a chemical analysis of the wine which our wineries are happy to provide to the importer.
If you’re now interested in importing delicious Italian wines and would like expert support, reach out to us. Together, we can select the perfect products to delight your customers. Here is a summary of how Vianello Wines actively assists you with wine imports from Italy: Wine Import International Imports.
You have any further questions about importing wine from Italy? Please feel free to contact us:
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