[skyler]

There are state by state laws prohibiting the shipping of alcohol without some sort of license. I believe that in California only a retailer of alcohol can ship legally. I imagine there are some states where shipping beer is 100% ok, but since getting them to NHC requires crossing state lines, I doubt it can really be done legally for most homebrewers. Getting a "homebrew competition exemption" for shipping alcohol should be (and probably is) a major focus for the AHA.

[micsager]

SWMBO has bought me the beer of the month thing twice over the years.  First time, 5-6 years ago, DHL was the shipper and would not leave without someone 21 there to receive.  Then, just last year it was FedEx, and I'd come home from work, and the beer would be waiting for me.........

BTW, I've never had a "good beer" from one of these clubs.  All east coast lagers.  WE need a BOM club that focuses on northwest IPA's.  LOL. 

Lot's of inconsitancies.  Roll the dice, take your chances. 

[troybinso]

I just confirmation that it was delivered and signed for at Georgetown Brewery in Seattle. Woohoo.

[tom]

Officially, neither UPS nor FedEx allow shipping of alcohol except by registered shippers.
FedEx delivered my entries yesterday.

[alcaponejunior]

I've shipped a lot of beer, and never had an issue with fedex.  Always cover up beer labels on the outside of the box, whether it's glasses, wine, beer or booze. 

[beerrat]

I never had an issue - never needed to be coy with "declaring yeast samples, etc":

1) Plain brown box
2) Well packed, no clanging bottles
3) UPS online to create and pay for label/shipping
4) Walk into UPS, say "prepaid" and I walk out door.

Note- I ship only UPS ground, not sure if "air" would have any issues, scanning of package.
My NHC entries made it fine.

[dirk_mclargehuge]

I have had the local UPS store open my box. I too got the lecture. I took the box across town to an independent shipper and never had a problem since.