So, the entries are shipped to Colorado. Then the entries are trucked to PA?
Why? Is the beer refrigerated all the time?
Why not ship the entries straight to the judging site? Makes no sense to me.
I assume they need to go to CO for staff to check them in. Dunno for sure. The beers are refrigerated the entire time. The BA/AHA hires refrigerator trucks for it.
Seems like an extra step that could be avoided. But if it works for them, great!
I entered a couple beers…against my initial decision not to.
Glad to know the beer will be kept refrigerated.
The cellar crew from the BA handles beers for the AHA. They’re highly experienced and competent.
Entries arrive in the warehouse.
Entries are unpacked, logged in, packaging is sorted and recycled.
Entries are sorted by category, and packaged for shipment.
I helped do this for second round in Grand Rapids. It was a 10 hour day of hard work. Things didn’t run smoothly at first. Some software and equipment glitches. People had to learn their job.
I have no issue with this situation. Remember, this is for all entries, not just second round.
The BA warehouse is also bonded. That means fewer questions by the local Fedex and UPS delivery, even for homebrew.
I got caught in that mess a few years ago having entries destroyed heading to Rhode Island. That was 4 entries and more than $100 shipping and less than 8 days before the cut off.
My entries were sent via FedEx Overnight Express. They made it, safe and sound! Yes, it was expensive, but after spending almost $100 on entry fees, did not want to take a chance.
18 bottles of beer in the box…