Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve put together the answers to some of the questions our customers often ask us. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch.

1. How much wine and beer can I buy?
2. How much can my car carry?
3. Can I order before travelling?
4. Why is it cheaper to buy wine and beer in France?
5. Is Oddbins in Calais the same as Oddbins in the UK?
6. Do you have wine tastings?
7. Do you speak English?
8. How do I pay?
9. What if I want a refund?

1. How much wine and beer can I buy?
   As much as you like providing it is for personal use only. If you buy more than 120 bottles of wine and 250 cans of beer Customs and Excise may ask you to verify the intended usage. Personal use can include weddings, parties and gifts.
2. How much can my car carry?
   A family saloon can carry 10 cases (120 bottles, 15kg) and 10 cases of beer (24x25cl, 10kg) easily. Please check your car's load capacity if in any doubt.
3. Can I order before travelling?
   Absolutely. We are very happy to take your order in advance by phone or online and we’ll have it ready for you to collect and pay for in France.
4. Why is it cheaper to buy wine and beer in France?
   The UK government puts a £1.80 tax on every bottle of wine and £2.30 on every bottle of sparkling wine. Therefore you not only save this amount, but also benefit from the volume savings we can make when purchasing – all savings that we pass on to you.
5. Is Oddbins in Calais the same as Oddbins in the UK?
   In many ways yes. We have access to the same stock and benefit from the buying power of Oddbins UK. However the warehouse in Calais is run by an independent company, selected to be the sole distributor of Oddbins products in France.
6. Do you have wine tastings?
   Of course. We think it’s important for you to have the opportunity to try exciting new wines. Every day we choose some of our special offer wines for tasting, but if you are interested in a particular wine we will be happy to open a bottle for you (within reason!) to try before you buy.
7. Do you speak English?
   Most of the Oddbins Calais team are English and all of us speak English fluently. We are on hand to help you with any questions or queries you might have.
8. How do I pay?
   To avoid paying UK tax on your wine and beer you have to pay for and collect your goods in France. We accept Sterling and Euro cash, sterling cheques and credit cards.
   
   If you pay by credit card your transaction is converted at the daily rate.
   
   You need to check today’s rate, if it is lower than 1.07 euros to the pound it is more beneficial for you to pay in Sterling. Cash or UK cheque only! If the rate is higher than 1.07 euros to the pound it is better paying in euros, cash or credit card.
   
   Don't worry if this sounds confusing. We promise to help, explain and outline which is the best way to pay on the day.
9. What if I want a refund?
   We will refund your money or exchange any product bought from Oddbins Calais if you bring them back to us undamaged. Oddbins in the UK is not liable for any products bought in France.

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Customer Comments

“Just a quick note to thank you very much for arranging the above order and tunnel crossing ticket on...”

Philip Bench, customer
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Did you know?

At Oddbins Calais we stock over 300 Fine Wines in our separate temperature controlled area.
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Plan your visit

Whether you're coming by ferry or tunnel, Oddbins Calais is easy to get to and there are plenty of other things to do whilst you're there. Learn more

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