Definition: Distribution logistics

A series of operations that transport goods from their place of production to the consumer (transport, storage, warehousing, sorting, packaging, sale, delivery). Logistics and wine have a long history together, and even today, wine exports are still distributed using the "départ chai" method. Producers are increasingly being led and forced to adopt new skills in terms of wine shipping and transport. Some go further, hoping to make money on transport by managing logistics operations. The more you expand the service, the more you control the offers and the more you make a profit. Organising regular flows with the same service providers allows you to obtain competitive rates. Producers must take care of their product all the way to the recipient, because consumers who are disappointed by a spoiled wine only know the name and contact details of the producer on the label. The difficulties today are the formalities that winegrowers have to complete: various paperwork (administrative declarations), especially for exports, with standards that differ from one country to another. The weak points are labelling: too many parcels are misdirected because of incomplete information (often written). Packaging: the carton must not only be able to withstand the stresses of transport, but also convey an image of the wine.

Some distributors buy in bulk, bottle the wine and distribute it. They are the logistics providers. Others, who are more locally based, continue to focus on storage, but may also be involved in other stages of the process. Finally, large retailers also participate in wine logistics, as they transport wines purchased directly from producers from their platforms to their stores. They play an important role in wine fairs.

Service providers manage the technical aspects of logistics: transport and storage. These include traditional transport companies that treat wine as a general commodity (which allows for economies of scale). Specialised transport companies develop specific solutions for wine, packaging, storing and, above all, transporting it under controlled temperatures. Express couriers, who, thanks to their dense international networks, offer delivery times for small quantities that appeal to increasingly demanding consumers. All of them take care of administrative and customs formalities and guarantee the traceability of operations. They often achieve the impossible to meet unbearable deadlines.

Constraints that are harmful to wine: wine is a living product, sensitive to light, vibrations and thermal shocks. It is also unstable and there is a risk of contamination from the container (particularly the cork). It must arrive at its destination in the same condition as when it left the cellar. Standardised treatment is not suitable for all types of wine. Air-conditioned transport is desirable for cold or hot countries. In Europe, the 20 to 50% surcharge for temperature-controlled transport is only acceptable for wines with high added value. The ideal temperature control is between 16 and 20°C. A new development from the agri-food industry is the use of temperature sensors that travel with the wine and record the temperature throughout the journey. The most delicate phases of transport are the loading and unloading stages (transfer to the quay, delivery to the shop). It is preferable to keep these to a minimum. Finally, there is one last constraint: security, with risks ranging from bottle theft to cargo hijacking. For certain wines, it is sometimes preferable to arrange with the carrier for protected shipments (black film or anonymous cardboard).

The different modes of transport:

Land transport

In Europe, almost all wine is transported by road: it is a fast mode of transport, usually taking less than 48 hours, and with no temperature constraints. The price war in road transport has wreaked havoc, and given the constraints associated with wine, the difference today lies in the quality of service. Final delivery, the "last mile", in any urban area is now a major concern, which is why the shipper and the carrier must agree on a charter of good practice.

Maritime transport

This is the essential mode of transport for Asia, America, Africa and certain Eastern European countries, via the Black Sea or the Baltic Sea. Parcels travel in watertight containers, grouped together with other goods. Consolidators combine their shipments to fill a container and thus obtain favourable rates. Maritime transport is slow and involves risks for wine (temperature-controlled transport should be chosen), but the prices are attractive. For example, it costs £45 to ship a pallet from Le Havre to Tokyo.

Air transport

Air transport is ideal for sending samples or small quantities (less than 200 kg) urgently, for shipping primeur wines and grands crus. Transport is more expensive, and the administrative constraints are the same as for other international transport. Be aware that the temperature in the holds drops to zero degrees Celsius at high altitude, or even below.

Storage and value-added activities

Wine storage is mainly carried out by specialists, and exclusively under controlled temperatures. The service provider does not simply store the wine, but also manages the stock and prepares orders directly with the customer. They agree on the services to be provided: supply management, delivery conditions, packaging and packing for promotional operations, and even bottling in some cases.

Reminder of the steps to follow for a hassle-free delivery: gather accurate and reliable information about the recipient. Check the required export formalities or the necessary documents in France and abroad. Encourage competition between service providers, focusing on quality of service. Provide suitable packaging. Choose clear and comprehensive labelling. Facilitate the collection of goods at departure, as carriers have time slots to respect. Provide loading equipment and even manpower. Arrange for the easiest possible access to the cellars. Choose service providers who can offer guarantees regarding storage and transport temperatures. The logistics provider must be able to track your shipments and must commit to keeping you informed.