Empty Beer Bottles: Where To Buy Them?

Yes, you can buy empty beer bottles from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, eBay, Walmart, and specialist brewing suppliers such as Northern Brewer and The Cary Company. Amber glass bottles are a common option, available in a range of sizes, including 12 oz, 16 oz, and 22 oz. Clear glass bottles are also available, although these may not protect your beer from UV light in the same way as amber or brown glass. Some bottles come with caps or corks included, while others are swing-top or flip-top.

Where to buy empty beer bottles

You can buy empty beer bottles from several online retailers, including Amazon and Walmart.

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of empty beer bottles in various sizes, colours, and pack sizes. For example, you can buy a 24-pack of 12 oz FastRack Amber Glass Longneck Bottles with crown caps for $21.99, or a 48-pack for $37.99. They also offer YEBODA 16 oz Amber Glass Beer Bottles with flip caps, which come in a case of 6 and cost $19.99.

Walmart

Walmart offers a case of 24 12 oz Amber Beer Bottles for $24.99, with free shipping. These bottles have a pry-off cap and are also suitable for home brewing.

The Cary Company

The Cary Company offers a large selection of glass beer bottles in various styles, including Vichy, Belgians, Euros, Long Neck, Heritage, Bombers, and Growlers. They offer bottles in sizes ranging from 12 oz to 64 oz, with prices available upon request.

In addition to these options, you may also be able to find empty beer bottles at local home brewing supply stores or craft beer bottle shops.

Types of empty beer bottles

Empty beer bottles are available in a variety of styles and sizes. The standard choice for home brewers is the classic 12-ounce long-neck beer bottle, which has been a favourite among brewers for over a century. These bottles are typically made of brown glass, which helps protect the beer from UV light and prevents "skunking".

For larger quantities, you can opt for 16-ounce or 22-ounce bottles, also known as "bomber" bottles. These bottles offer a more generous serving and are perfect for those who want to enjoy more of their favourite brew. Like the 12-ounce bottles, they usually feature a standard pry-off crown cap.

Belgian-style bottles are another popular option, offering an authentic presentation for Belgian beers. These bottles can be capped or corked and come in various sizes, including 375 ml, 750 ml, and 16.9 oz (500 ml). Belgian bottles are known for their thicker glass, making them ideal for highly carbonated beers.

For a unique and retro look, swing-top bottles, also known as EZ cap or "Grolsch" style bottles, are a great choice. These bottles come in amber, cobalt, or clear glass and feature a reusable flip-top that doesn't require any special tools or caps.

Clear glass long-neck bottles are also available, providing a modern and sleek look. These bottles typically come in the standard 12-ounce size and are perfect for those who want to showcase the colour and clarity of their brew.

In addition to the standard brown and clear glass bottles, you can also find specialty bottles in colours like emerald green and cobalt blue. These bottles add a touch of uniqueness to your beer presentation and can be a fun way to showcase your brew.

Overall, the type of empty beer bottle you choose depends on your personal preference, the style of beer you're bottling, and how you want to present your brew to the world.

Prices of empty beer bottles

The price of empty beer bottles varies depending on the quantity, brand, and retailer. Here is a list of prices for empty beer bottles from different sources:

Amazon

Amazon offers a variety of empty beer bottles in different quantities and styles. Prices range from $19.99 for a FastRack 24-pack of 12 oz amber longneck glass bottles to $37.99 for a FastRack 48-pack of 12 oz amber glass bottles. There are also offers from other brands, such as YEBODA, North Mountain Supply, and SureSave, with prices ranging from $19.99 to $52.99.

Walmart

Walmart offers a 24-pack of 12 oz amber beer bottles for home brewing with free shipping. The price is not specified.

EBay

On eBay, prices for empty beer bottles vary depending on the brand, quantity, and rarity. For example, a new listing for a Carling Black Label Lager Beer 12 oz empty bottle with a paper label and no cap is available, while a rare 3 qt. Heineken Lager Special Edition empty bottle is also listed. Prices range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars for collector's items.

The Cary Company

The Cary Company offers a wide range of glass beer bottles in different styles, including Vichy, Belgians, Euros, Long Neck, Heritage, Bombers, and Growlers. The prices are not specified, but they offer free shipping and provide a quote for multiple pallets or truckload pricing.

Shipping options for empty beer bottles

When it comes to shipping empty beer bottles, there are several options available to ensure safe and efficient delivery. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for shipping empty beer bottles:

Packaging:

It is crucial to package empty beer bottles securely to prevent breakage during transit. Here are some recommended steps:

• Use a sturdy corrugated cardboard box that is slightly larger than the bottles to allow for protective packaging material.
• Wrap each bottle individually in a hermetic plastic bag. This helps contain any leaks that may occur during transit.
• Add cushioning material such as bubble wrap or foam sheets around each bottle. This extra layer of protection will help absorb shock and prevent breakage.
• If sending multiple bottles, separate them with cardboard or polystyrene layers to prevent them from knocking against each other.
• Fill any remaining space in the box with packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, or other filler material to minimise movement.
• Seal the box securely with adhesive tape and clearly label it as "Fragile" to indicate its contents.

Shipping Carriers:

When choosing a shipping carrier, it is essential to consider their policies regarding the shipment of empty beer bottles:

• Common carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL have specific regulations for shipping alcoholic beverages. Be sure to review their guidelines before choosing a carrier.
• The United States Postal Service (USPS) allows shipping alcoholic beverages under certain circumstances, but it is essential to use appropriate packaging and avoid any labels or logos indicating the presence of alcohol. USPS does not insure packages containing alcohol.
• Specialist shipping companies like Eurosender offer international shipping services for beer and provide guidance on regulations and restrictions.

Shipping Speed and Cost:

The speed and cost of shipping empty beer bottles can vary depending on several factors:

• Ground shipping is typically slower but more cost-effective than air shipping. If you are not in a rush, ground transportation can save you money.
• Shipping empty beer bottles in bulk can help distribute the cost of packaging and shipping across a larger number of bottles.
• The distance of shipment also affects cost. Shipping within a single country or region, such as within the EU, may be more affordable than international shipping.
• Shipping insurance may not always be available for alcoholic beverages, so consider the risks before choosing a shipping method.

Legal Considerations:

When shipping empty beer bottles, it is essential to comply with legal requirements:

• Different countries and regions have varying restrictions on shipping alcoholic beverages. Always check the regulations for both the origin and destination countries.
• Licensed companies typically have more options for shipping beer internationally, but individuals may face more restrictions when shipping across borders.
• Customs inspections and duties may apply when shipping beer internationally, so be prepared to provide the necessary documentation and pay any applicable charges.

Uses for empty beer bottles

There are many ways to reuse empty beer bottles. Here are some ideas for inspiration:

Home Decor

• Candle holders: Add some glitter to a beer bottle top to make a quirky candle holder.
• Vases: Add some paint and design to a beer bottle to make an easy DIY vase.
• Herb garden: Cut off the top of a beer bottle and place it in some water to make a self-watering herb planter.
• Wind chime: Create a classic, magical wind chime using beer bottles and some other trinkets.
• Chandelier: Make a statement with a DIY beer bottle chandelier.
• Salt and pepper shakers: Drill holes in the caps of two beer bottles and fill them with salt and pepper for a unique dining table accessory.
• String lights: Stuff some string lights into beer bottles to make a table centerpiece or patio lights.
• Twine-wrapped bottles: Wrap some twine around a beer bottle for a rustic, decorative piece.
• Soap dispenser: Upcycle a beer bottle by adding a liquid soap dispenser to the top.

Functional Items

• Goblets: Transform a beer bottle into a goblet, perfect for a St. Patrick's Day celebration.
• Guitar slide: If you play the guitar, craft a beer bottle neck into a guitar slide and save some money.
• Xylophone: Entertain your guests with a musical interlude by creating a xylophone from beer bottles.
• Solar-charged lanterns: Put your skills to use and make some solar-charged lanterns from beer bottles.
• Tiki torches: Craft some tiki torches from beer bottles for a late-night outdoor gathering.

Frequently asked questions