State-by-state DTC shipping matrix, which states ban, which allow direct, which require tier?

Honest summary as of 2026 (this changes 2-4 times/year, you must keep the matrix current):

• Banned entirely (cannot ship alcohol DTC at all): AL, UT, MS, KY, NH for most categories. Some allow with carve-outs for in-state-only.
• Direct shipping allowed (you ship straight to consumer with state ABC license): most states for wine (~45 states), fewer for spirits (~9 states), fewer still for beer (~12 states).
• Indirect tier required (must ship through a state-licensed wholesaler): NC for wine. Some states require fulfillment through a state-permitted retailer.
• Permit-only / restricted: DE (permit holders only), RI (winery direct visit required), SD (limited).

Beer is the most restricted, FedEx and UPS prohibit beer in some lanes entirely (UPS allowed since 2024 but with carrier-specific rules). Spirits is the second-most restricted, only 9 states allow spirits DTC.

The Magento implementation: a state shipping matrix module that runs at add-to-cart and at checkout. Customer enters ZIP → matrix checks state + category → blocks add-to-cart (e.g. "Beer cannot be shipped to AL") or warns at checkout. Per-product overrides because a producer might ship wine to 45 states but spirits to only 9. Quarterly law update is part of my retainer, I monitor Wine Institute, Sovos ShipCompliant, Avalara AvaTax for Beverage Alcohol for state-law changes and patch the matrix.