Buying Beer By The Pallet: A Guide For Bulk Purchases

If you're looking to buy beer by the pallet, there are a few options available to you. You could go to a distributor, a grocery store, a wholesaler, or a retailer like Sam's Club or Costco. Distributors will typically require you to have an account with them, and you may need a license to distribute beer depending on your location. Buying from a grocery store can be a good option when cases are on sale, but you may have to work with the store to get a full pallet ordered in. Wholesale and retail options like Sam's Club and Costco also offer the ability to buy beer by the pallet, and you may be able to find good deals there. Finally, you could go straight to the source and buy from a brewery, which also has the added benefit of giving all the money directly to the brewery.

How to buy beer by the pallet

Buying direct from a brewery

If you're looking to buy beer by the pallet, going directly to a brewery is a great option. Buying beer directly from a brewery can offer several benefits, including the ability to purchase larger quantities at potentially lower prices, and supporting local breweries by ensuring that all the money goes directly to them rather than to distributors or retailers.

When considering buying beer by the pallet from a brewery, it's important to keep in mind that not all breweries may be set up to accommodate such large purchases. Some breweries may only offer sales by the case or keg, so it's worth calling ahead to inquire about their policies and availability. Additionally, some breweries may require you to have an account with them to make large orders.

Another factor to consider is transportation. A pallet of beer can be quite heavy, weighing in at around 1800 lbs. Ensure that you have a suitable vehicle for transporting your purchase, as most half-ton trucks may not have the necessary payload capacity.

When approaching a brewery about purchasing beer by the pallet, it's a good idea to ask about any discounts they may offer for bulk purchases. Some breweries may be willing to negotiate a better price, especially if you're a regular customer or are purchasing a large quantity. Additionally, inquire about their payment policies, as some breweries may only accept cash payments for wholesale orders.

Lastly, keep in mind that buying beer by the pallet from a brewery may not always result in the lowest price per unit. Sometimes, retailers' loss leaders can offer better deals on certain beers, especially domestic brands. However, if you're looking for craft beer or a specific local brew, going directly to the brewery is often the best option.

Getting the cheapest price

If you're looking to buy beer by the pallet, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best deal. Here are some tips to get the cheapest price:

Compare Prices

Don't just settle for the first option you find. Compare prices from different retailers, distributors, and breweries. You can often find deals and discounts by shopping around. Check out big-box stores like Costco and Sam's Club, which offer competitive prices on bulk items like beer.

Look for Sales and Discounts

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially at grocery stores. Sometimes, stores will have loss leaders, where they sell beer at a loss to attract customers. Take advantage of these deals, and stock up when you see a good sale.

Buy in Bulk

The more you buy, the cheaper it gets. Buying by the pallet is already a step towards getting a better price per unit. If you can, consider purchasing an entire truckload (TL) instead of less than a truckload (LTL). This way, you'll be renting the entire truck, and your beer will be delivered directly to its destination without any additional stops, reducing the risk of damage during transport.

Choose the Right Truck Type

The type of truck you use for delivery can also impact the price. If you're shipping locally and don't need climate control, opt for a dry van instead of a refrigerated trailer (reefer). Dry vans are typically more cost-effective, but be mindful of potential issues due to temperature changes if you're shipping long distances or during hot months.

Go for Domestic Beers

If you're not picky about brands and just want the cheapest option, consider buying domestic beers. These tend to be more affordable than imported or craft beers. Look for popular domestic brands like Budweiser, Bud Light, Coors, and Miller Genuine Draft.

Consider 30-Packs

When it comes to getting the most beer for your money, 30-packs often offer the best value. If you don't care about the brand and just want the cheapest beer, look for stores' loss leaders, which are often 30-packs of domestic beer at a very competitive price.

Transport and Storage

Keep in mind that transporting and storing a pallet of beer requires the right equipment and conditions. You'll need a vehicle capable of carrying a heavy load, and a place to store the beer that's away from heat and light. Proper storage will help you avoid additional costs associated with damaged or spoiled beer.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to getting the cheapest price when buying beer by the pallet. Remember to plan, compare prices, and take advantage of sales and bulk discounts to maximize your savings.

Transporting a pallet of beer

Packaging and Pallet Selection:

Before transporting, it is crucial to package the beer securely. Use lightweight materials that help stabilise temperatures and protect the contents. Insulated foam, pre-molded polystyrene, or moulded fibre inserts are good options. Ensure that the packaging is strong enough to prevent breakage and maintain a consistent temperature.

When it comes to pallets, the standard size is 48 by 40 inches. You can choose between wood pallets, which are traditional and cost-effective, or plastic pallets, which offer several advantages. Plastic pallets are sturdier, more durable, sanitary (non-porous and easy to clean), have smoother sides that are less likely to damage packaging, and are more sustainable in the long run.

Weight and Stacking Considerations:

A typical pallet can hold 20 1/6 bbl kegs, 14 1/4 bbl kegs, or 8 1/2 bbl kegs. The weight of a full pallet of kegs can range from 1,200 to 1,400 pounds. It is important not to overstack the kegs, and pallets can only be stacked two-high due to weight limits.

For canned beer, a 12-pack of 12-ounce cans weighs about 20 pounds. It is recommended to limit the number of cases per pallet to 100, resulting in a total weight of 2,200 pounds. This helps prevent overloading the truck and avoids overstocking.

Securing the Load:

To secure the load, completely shrink-wrap the cases or kegs and ensure the wrap runs around the base of the pallet. Banding is preferable for kegs, but if a banding machine is unavailable, use ample shrink wrap to secure the load. You can also use industrial-strength shrink wrap or plastic straps to create a single weight and add a security layer.

Temperature Control:

Beer should ideally be shipped in a climate-controlled environment to maintain optimal temperatures between 37 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Too cold, and the beer may freeze and expand, causing cans or bottles to burst. Too hot, and the beer can spoil.

Legal Considerations:

Shipping beer comes with specific legal requirements. You will need a valid business license, a manufacturer or dealer's license, and a shipping license to track alcoholic product shipments across state lines. Additionally, there are varying state regulations regarding beer shipments, so be sure to research the laws for the shipping and receiving states.

Optimising Delivery:

To optimise the delivery process, consider using route optimisation software or services that provide real-time fleet tracking, dispatch notifications, and efficient routing. This will help keep your drivers and cargo safe while also improving delivery times.

By following these guidelines and considerations, you can effectively transport a pallet of beer while ensuring the safety and quality of the product.

Buying from a distributor

If you want to buy beer by the pallet, you can go directly to a distributor. Distributors will typically require you to have an account with them before placing an order. Some distributors may also require you to have a specific license, such as an ABC license, depending on the intended use of the beer.

When buying from a distributor, you will need to consider the shipping and transportation of the beer. Distributors usually offer full truckload (TL) or less-than-truckload (LTL) options. A full truckload means your product will be the only one on the truck, ensuring direct delivery and less risk of damage. On the other hand, LTL means renting space on a truck shared with other companies, which can be more cost-effective but may involve additional stops.

Additionally, you will need to choose between a dry van or a refrigerated trailer (reefer) for transporting your beer. A dry van is a cost-effective option for short-distance shipping but may not provide adequate climate control. On the other hand, a refrigerated trailer is ideal for long-distance shipping or maintaining beer quality but may have a lower carrying capacity due to its weight.

When ordering from a distributor, you will also need to specify the number of pallets and the type of pallets (wood or plastic) you require. Plastic pallets are generally recommended for their sturdiness, sanitation, and cost-effectiveness over time. Distributors may also provide additional pallet features, such as ledges, interlocking feet, and tie-down points, for added safety during transport.

Finally, remember to consider the weight and volume of your shipment, as it will impact the number of pallets and trucks needed. A standard 48" x 40" pallet can hold approximately 100 cases of beer or 2,200 pounds. By calculating these details in advance, you can ensure a smooth ordering and shipping process when buying beer by the pallet from a distributor.

Storing beer

Location

When storing beer, it is best to keep it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. A basement or a dark cabinet can be a good option. Heat and light are harmful to beer, so it is best to avoid storing it in places that get too warm or bright. Additionally, try to avoid places that get too cold, as this can cause the beer to freeze and damage the packaging or container.

Temperature Control

Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for storing beer. The optimal temperature range for storing beer is between 37 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit. Storing beer at higher temperatures can cause it to spoil, while freezing temperatures can lead to expansion and potentially burst cans or bottles. Consider investing in a wine and beer cooler to maintain the ideal temperature if you have the space.

Stacking and Arrangement

When dealing with a large quantity of beer, such as a pallet, proper stacking and arrangement are important for safety and ease of access. Always start by placing the heaviest cases at the bottom of the stack to create a stable foundation. Distribute weight evenly across the pallet to maintain balance and prevent tipping. Use caution and take your time when stacking to avoid creating an unstable or unsafe stack.

Packaging and Labelling

Before storing beer, ensure that it is packaged correctly. Use lightweight, insulating materials like insulated foam or moulded fibre to stabilise temperatures and protect the beer during storage. Proper packaging helps to prevent breakage and maintain the quality of the beer. Additionally, clear labelling is essential, especially if you are storing different types of beer. Labels can help you identify the beer's type, brand, or expiration date easily.

Storage with Other Items

If you are storing beer in a shared space with other items, take care to separate it from strong-smelling products. Beer can absorb odours, so it is best to keep it away from items with strong scents. Additionally, ensure that the storage area is clean and free from pests or insects, as they can contaminate the beer.

Rotation and Stock Management

Finally, when storing beer by the pallet, remember to practise proper stock rotation. Beer has a shelf life, and it is essential to monitor expiration dates and consume the beer within the recommended period. Rotate your stock by using older beer first and regularly checking for any signs of damage or leakage.

Frequently asked questions