USPS Set to Shake Up Alcohol Shipping Market!

Ladies and gentlemen, buckle up! The shipping game is about to get a whole lot more interesting. On April 24, 2025, Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-4) introduced the Shipping Equity Act (H.R. 3011) in the 119th Congress. This bill is a game-changer, folks! It would allow the Postal Service to ship beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages directly from licensed producers and retailers to legal customers.



You heard it right! The USPS, which currently can't ship alcoholic goods, would finally be able to compete with private shippers like FedEx and UPS. This move could generate an estimated $190 million annually in new revenue for the Postal Service. Imagine that! The USPS, delivering your favorite brew right to your doorstep. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.

But wait, there's more! If passed into law, the USPS would have two years to develop regulations ensuring that the Postal Service is prepared to safely deliver alcoholic beverages to adult consumers with appropriate identification checks. This means that the USPS would have to invest in technology and training to verify the age and identity of recipients. It's a big task, but the USPS is up for the challenge.

The bill also would expand access for direct-to-consumer alcoholic shipments. Unlike private shippers, the USPS delivers to every address in the nation. This means that many Americans, especially those in rural areas, would finally have access to these products. It's a huge step forward for accessibility and convenience.

The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) is thrilled about this bill. NALC President Brian L. Renfroe said, “NALC applauds Rep. Newhouse for introducing the Shipping Equity Act. The bill is an important step toward meeting the growing needs of our customers while generating revenue for the Postal Service, expanding the agency’s service opportunities, and supporting small businesses nationwide.”

So, what does this mean for you? It means that you could soon be enjoying your favorite craft beer or wine delivered right to your doorstep by the USPS. It means that small businesses, especially breweries and wineries, would have a new avenue to reach customers. It means that the USPS would have a new revenue stream, helping to keep the service running smoothly.

But don't just take my word for it. Click here for NALC’s fact sheet on the bill, and visit nalc.org/action to ask your members of Congress to cosponsor the legislation. This is a no-brainer, folks! The Shipping Equity Act is a win for everyone involved, and it's time to make it a reality. So, let's get out there and make some noise! Let's make sure that this bill gets passed and that the USPS can start delivering your favorite beverages right to your doorstep. BOO-YAH!