Found Bottles in a Storage Unit: What to Do Next
Discovering bottles in a storage unit raises questions about condition, authenticity, and value. This guide helps you assess what you have and determine if the bottles are worth selling.
What to Do Next
Storage unit bottles often have unknown history. Your first step is to photograph everything before handling or moving bottles.
Do not clean labels or remove packaging. Original dust, labels, and materials help establish authenticity. Cleaning can damage labels and raise questions about the bottles.
- Photograph bottles in place before moving them
- Do not clean labels or capsules
- Keep any original boxes, cases, or packaging
- Look for any paperwork, receipts, or notes in the unit
- Move bottles carefully if you must relocate them
- Store in a cool, dark, stable location until you get an offer
What Information Matters for Pricing
We need to understand what you have and assess condition. Photos are especially important for storage unit finds.
- Clear photos of all labels (front and back if readable)
- Photos showing fill levels (where liquid meets air)
- Photos of capsules and corks (any damage or seepage)
- Any original packaging, boxes, or wood cases
- Notes on how long bottles may have been in storage
- Any temperature information about the unit (climate controlled or not)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Storage units are rarely temperature controlled. Bottles stored in fluctuating temperatures may have condition issues that affect value or make them unsaleable.
Authenticity matters. Some bottles may be refills, counterfeits, or declassified products. We evaluate this as part of our review.
- Cleaning labels (this removes authenticity indicators)
- Throwing away original packaging
- Assuming bottles are valuable without verification
- Ignoring condition red flags like low fills or seepage
- Spending money on professional appraisals before basic assessment
How the Process Works
We review photos and information to assess whether bottles have value and are in sellable condition.
- Submit photos and any information through our form or text to 213-770-9463
- We review and let you know if the bottles appear sellable
- If there is value, we provide a written offer
- If you accept, we arrange logistics
- Payment is issued after we receive and verify the bottles
Privacy and Safety Notes
We handle all inquiries confidentially. If bottles turn out to have no value or condition issues, that information stays between us.
We never require in-person meetings at storage units. Bottles can be shipped or picked up from a location you choose where permitted.
If bottles are clearly damaged or counterfeit, we will tell you directly so you do not waste time or money.
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
What if the storage unit was not climate controlled?
Temperature fluctuations can damage wine and spirits. We assess condition from photos. Some bottles may still have value; others may not. Send photos and we will let you know.
How do I know if bottles are authentic?
We evaluate authenticity as part of our review. Factors include label details, capsule condition, fill levels, and packaging. Send clear photos and we will identify any concerns.
Should I clean the bottles before photographing?
No. Do not clean labels or bottles. Dust and original condition help establish authenticity. Cleaning can damage labels and remove important information.
What if I do not know anything about wine or spirits?
That is fine. Photograph everything clearly and submit. We identify what you have and whether it has value.
What if only some bottles are in good condition?
We can make offers on the bottles that are sellable. You do not have to sell everything together.
How long can I wait before deciding?
Move bottles to a cool, dark, stable location promptly. Heat and light cause ongoing damage. Once stabilized, you have time to decide.