Pennsylvania

In 2017, Pennsylvania was responsible for $57 million in DtC wine purchases, making it the 11th-largest DtC wine market in the country. This is a an emerging market for wine shippers, as the state only passed direct-to-consumer legislation in 2016. Nevertheless, there were strong results in its first full year of DtC wine shipping.

Here’s what you need to know to:
  • 1) Become compliant
  • 2) Stay compliant
  • 3) Expand your business in Pennsylvania
Request a demo

  • Need more help?

    Request a demo to find out how Sovos ShipCompliant can help you navigate the complexities of selling DtC into Pennsylvania.

Steps to Compliance

STEP 1: Becoming Compliant

STEP 1: Becoming Compliant

The first step in expanding any DtC business in Pennsylvania is becoming compliant with the many rules and regulations required there. Below is a list of what to watch out for.

  • Volume Limits

    Wineries are limited to shipping no more than 36 cases per individual per calendar year.

  • Shipping Restrictions

    All packages containing wine must be clearly labeled, “CONTAINS ALCOHOL: SIGNATURE OF PERSON 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER REQUIRED FOR DELIVERY.”

  • Customer Information

    Wineries should collect data on each sale made, including purchaser and recipient information and the contents of each package shipped. These data should be retained in case of audit, and must be regularly reported to the state.

  • Tax Rates

    Excise Tax:
    $2.50 per gallon on all wine


    Sales Tax: 6% + local rates for sales made to the Philadelphia or Alleghany tax districts. The Johnstown Flood Tax does not apply to DtC sales

Age Verification

Pennsylvania requires DtC licensees to verify the age of all purchasers at the time of order. The PLCB has determined that licensees can meet this requirement by 1) employing an "age gate" service on their website, and 2) working with carriers who ensure they check IDs at the time of delivery.

STEP 2: Staying Compliant

STEP 2: Staying Compliant

The second step in expanding your business is staying compliant. Ensure you are able to continue shipping DtC in Pennsylvania by following the guidelines below.

  • Tax Reports

    Excise Tax: Direct Wine Shipper Tax Return, due quarterly


    Sales Tax: Pennsylvania SUT Return

  • Shipping Reports

    Order-by-order data, including purchaser, recipient, and package contents must be reported quarterly.

STEP 3: Expanding Your Business

STEP 3: Expanding Your Business

As the tenth-largest driver of sales among the 45 states that permit DtC wine sales and one of the fastest-growing markets in the country, Pennsylvania is prime real estate for wine sellers who are able to follow the regulations effectively.

  • License Required

    All wineries making DtC sales to Pennsylvania residents must first receive a Direct Wine Shipper License. The license costs $250 and must be renewed annually.

  • Product Limits

    Wineries are limited to selling DtC only wines that they produce.

STEP 4: Get In Touch with A DtC Expert

STEP 4: Get In Touch with A DtC Expert

Request a demo

Learn how Sovos ShipCompliant can support your expanding business by helping you adhere to state DtC compliance requirements automatically.

 

Use the map below to find out how to comply with other state's direct-to-consumer wine shipping rules.