Distributor Closeout or Buyout: Selling Remaining Inventory
How to format lists, document ownership, and move inventory efficiently where permitted.
Quick Answer
Distributors often need to clear the warehouse of 'dead stock' or dropped brands to free up cash and space.
- We buy pallets of back-vintage wine and discontinued spirits.
- We require 'cleared' goods (taxes paid) usually, or transfer in bond if applicable.
- Must be a direct sale (invoice), not consignment.
- Discretion guaranteed—we don't disrupt your current market pricing.
Why Sell Closeouts?
Holding inventory costs money (storage, insurance, opportunity cost).
- Vintage Roll: You have 50 cases of 2018 but the 2020 is arriving.
- Lost Brand: The supplier moved to another house, leaving you with stock.
- Label Change: Old packaging is hard to sell to retail accounts.
Compliance and Transfer
B2B transfers are strictly regulated.
- We can purchase via the 'SL' (Special Liquor) or equivalent retail-to-retail or wholesaler-to-retail license depending on the state.
- Or we purchase as a private collection acquisition if the entity is dissolving.
- Paperwork must be spotless.
Valuation Reality
Closeouts trade below wholesale.
- Expect offers at 30-50% of your original Laid-In Cost.
- We are taking the risk on 'hard to sell' items.
- Volume matters: Full pallets get better rates than mixed cases.
Common Mistakes
Waiting too long.
- Trying to push dead stock to retailers for 2 years while the wine dies.
- Sending a messy list (PDF scans) instead of an Excel CSV.
- Ignoring the condition of the cardboard boxes (retailers want clean cases).
What to Do Next
Clean the warehouse.
- Export your 'Closeout' list to Excel.
- Include: Product Name, Vintage, Quantity (Case/Btl) and Case Cost.
- Email it to our trade desk.
- We will cherry-pick or offer a take-all bid.
What to Do Next
Ready to get an offer for your bottles? Submit photos and details through our form, or text photos directly if that is easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you buy private label?
Generally no. We buy recognized brands with market demand.
Can you handle 1000+ cases?
Yes, we have warehouse capacity and logistics partners for LTL/FTL shipments.
Do you pay Terms?
For new accounts, we usually pay COD or Net 7. We move fast.
Can I sell expired beer?
No. We only buy Wine and Spirits.
Is this confidental?
Yes. We protect your relationship with the supplier.