Patent Publication Number: US-2023159255-A1

Title: Beverage container packaging

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/282,980, entitled “BEVERAGE CONTAINER PACKAGING,” filed Nov. 24, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to packaging for materials, and particularly to packaging for beverage containers, such as wine bottles, beer bottles, spirits bottles, and the like. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Historically, packaging and/or packaging materials for shipment of beverage containers (e.g., wine bottles, beer bottles, spirits bottles, etc.) have included bubble wrap, Styrofoam, popcorn, and other traditional packaging materials. For example, multiple bottles could be wrapped in bubble wrap, positioned in Styrofoam, and/or otherwise secured and placed into a box for transit. More recently, molded paper pulp trays have been used to secure multiple bottles during transit. There still remains a need for improved beverage container packaging and, more particularly, improved molded paper pulp tray packaging that can accommodate temperature or environmental control of beverage containers. 
     SUMMARY 
     A beverage container packing assembly includes a bottom tray, center support, and a top tray. The bottom tray defines first compartments. The first compartments may be configured to receive a first portion of a beverage container. The bottom tray includes one or more first support columns. The center support defines through holes. Each of the through holes is configured to receive a second portion of a beverage container. The center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack. The top tray defines second compartments. Each of the second compartments is configured to receive a third portion of a beverage container. The top tray is configured to accommodate the thermo pack between a first row and a second row of the second compartments. 
     The beverage container packing assembly may include a top tray that is configured to accommodate the thermo pack such that the thermo pack extends between a plurality of beverage containers installed in the first row and a plurality of beverage containers installed in the second row. The beverage container packing assembly may include top tray that includes a surface to accommodate the thermo pack. The beverage container packing assembly may include a top tray that includes a thermo pack accommodating space to house the thermo pack between the first row and the second row of the second compartments. The beverage container packing assembly may include a top tray that includes vertical posts. The beverage container packing assembly may include a plurality of the vertical posts that are configured to contact the thermo pack. The beverage container packing assembly may include a plurality of the vertical posts that include a boundary of a thermo pack accommodating space. The beverage container packing assembly may include a thermo pack that is installed in the thermo pack accommodating space in one or more of an interference fit, a fixed fit, a press fit, and temporary fastening. The beverage container packing assembly may be configured so that the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray are configured to be disposed in a shipping container. The bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray may extend to an inner surface of the shipping container. The beverage container packing assembly may be configured so that the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray include molded paper pulp. The beverage container packing assembly may be configured so that the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray further comprise a water-resistant coating. The beverage container packing assembly may include a center support that defines a through hole corresponding to each of said plurality of first compartments. 
     A beverage container packing assembly top tray may include a multiple second compartments. Each of the second compartments may be configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therein. The top tray may include at least one thermo pack accommodating space including a thermo pack surface and bounded by one or more support posts. The thermo pack accommodating space is configured to accommodate a thermo pack between a first row and a second row of the second compartments. 
     The beverage container packing assembly top tray may include a thermo pack accommodating space that is configured to accommodate the thermo pack such that the thermo pack extends between a plurality of beverage containers installed in the first row and a plurality of beverage containers installed in the second row. The beverage container packing assembly top tray may be configured so that the thermo pack is installed in the thermo pack accommodating space in one or more of an interference fit, a fixed fit, a press fit, and a temporary fastening. 
     A method of packing beverage containers is disclosed. A plurality of beverage containers are placed in a plurality of first compartments defined by a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly. A center support of the beverage container packing assembly is placed on top of the bottom tray such that the plurality of beverage containers extend through a plurality of through holes defined by the center support. A thermo pack is placed between a first row and a second row of the plurality of beverage containers such that the thermo pack extends between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row, and is supported by the center support of the beverage container packing assembly. A top tray of the beverage container packing assembly is placed on top of the center support such that the thermo pack is installed in a thermo pack accommodating space in the top tray. The thermo pack accommodating space may be bounded by a plurality of vertical posts. The thermo pack is installed in the thermo pack accommodating space in one or more of an interference fit, a fixed fit, a press fit, and temporary fastening. 
     A beverage container packing assembly includes a bottom tray defining a plurality of first compartments. The plurality of first compartments are configured to receive a first portion of a beverage container therein. The bottom tray includes one or more first support columns. The beverage container packing assembly includes a center support defining a plurality of through holes. Each of the plurality of through holes is configured to receive a second portion of a beverage container therethrough. The center support includes second support columns each configured to stack on one of the first support columns. The beverage container packing includes a top tray defining a plurality of second compartments. The second compartments are configured to receive a third portion of a beverage container therein. The center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack between a first row and a second row of the through holes. 
     According to various aspects, the center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack installed in either a first configuration or a second configuration. The first configuration may include installing the thermo pack between the first row and second row and the second configuration comprises installing the thermo pack between a first column of through holes and a second column of through holes. The rows and columns may include different numbers of through holes. 
     According to various aspects, the center support includes a plurality of second support columns, and total number of second support columns is less than a total number of the first support columns. 
     According to various aspects, the center support comprises a plurality of second support columns. The second support columns include diamond-shaped elements and star point elements that extend away from the center of the support columns. 
     According to various aspects, the top tray includes third support columns, and a total number of the second support columns is less than a total number of the third support columns. 
     According to various aspects, each of the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray are configured to be disposed in a shipping container. Each of the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray may extend to an inner surface of the shipping container. 
     In various aspects, the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray comprise molded paper pulp. In some instances, the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray further include a water-resistant coating. 
     According to various aspects, the first support columns and/or the second support columns are hollow. In certain instances, the second support columns may have an inverted shape with respect to a shape of the one or more first support columns. 
     According to various aspects, the center support defines a through hole corresponding to each of said plurality of first compartments. 
     A beverage container packing assembly center support includes a support body defining a plurality of through holes. The through holes may be configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therethrough. The support body may include one or more support columns. The support columns may be configured to stack on a corresponding support column of a bottom tray of the beverage container packing assembly. In use, the center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack between a first row and a second row of the plurality of beverage containers such that the thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row. 
     According to various aspects, the center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack installed in either a first configuration or a second configuration. The first configuration may include installing the thermo pack between the first row and second row and the second configuration may include installing the thermo pack between a first column of the beverage containers and a second column of the beverage containers. 
     According to various aspects, the center support may include a surface to accommodate installation of the thermo pack. In some aspects, the support body is configured to be disposed in a shipping container, the support body extends to an inner surface of the shipping container. In certain aspects, the center support comprises molded paper pulp. 
     A method of packing beverage containers includes placing a plurality of beverage containers in a plurality of first compartments defined by a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly. A center support of the beverage container packing assembly is placed on top of the bottom tray such that the beverage containers extend through a plurality of through holes defined by the center support. A thermo pack is placed between a first row and a second row of the plurality of beverage containers such that the thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row. The thermo pack may be supported by the center support of the beverage container packing assembly. A top tray of the beverage container packing assembly is placed on top of the center support such that the beverage containers extend into a plurality of second compartments defined by the top tray. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing and other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following, more particular description of various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The first digits in the reference number indicate the drawing in which an element first appears. 
         FIG.  1    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  2    depicts a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly according to some embodiments. 
         FIG.  3    depicts a second view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  4    depicts a third view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  5    depicts a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  6    depicts a first cross-section view of a first compartment of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  7    depicts a second cross-section view of a first compartment of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  8    depicts first compartments of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  9    depicts a bottom tray and center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  10    depicts a center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  11    depicts an underside of a center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  12    depicts a first configuration of a bottom tray supporting twelve beverage containers, a center support disposed on the bottom tray, and three transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  13    depicts a second configuration of a bottom tray supporting twelve beverage containers, a center support disposed on the bottom tray, and two transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  14    depicts a top tray of a beverage container packing assembly according to some embodiments. 
         FIG.  15    depicts a second view of a top tray according to some embodiments. 
         FIG.  16    depicts a third view of a top tray in an upright orientation according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  17    depicts a center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  18    depicts an underside view of a center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  19    depicts an underside view of a center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  20    depicts side view of a center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  21    depicts an example shipping container according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  22    depicts an example shipping container with a bottom tray and center support disposed therein according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  23    depicts an example shipping container with a bottom tray and center support disposed therein according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  24    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  25    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  26    depicts a bottom tray of a beverage container packaging assembly according to some embodiments. 
         FIG.  27    depicts a second view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  28    depicts a center support with two transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  29    depicts a top tray with two transport thermo packs disposed in the top tray according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  30    a top tray in an upright orientation according to various embodiments. 
         FIG.  31    is a flowchart depicting a method of packing beverage containers according to various embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Exemplary embodiments are discussed in detail below. While specific exemplary embodiments are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. In describing and illustrating the exemplary embodiments, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. However, the embodiments are not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. It is to be understood that each specific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. The examples and embodiments described herein are non-limiting examples. 
     Any publications and references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     As used herein, the term “a” refers to one or more. The terms “including,” “for example,” “such as,” “e.g.,” “may be” and the like, are meant to include, but are not be limited to, the listed examples. 
     Beverage container packing as described and shown herein is directed to molded trays, such as molded paper-pulp trays, that can accommodate temperature-controlled beverage containers. More particularly, the molded paper pulp trays can accommodate components, elements, and/or mechanisms for controlling the temperature in the packaging, such as thermo packs, ice packs, and the like to prevent spoiling during transport, especially during hotter times of year. 
     Beverage container packaging is disclosed herein in various embodiments. These various embodiments and configurations may include a bottom element (bottom tray, bottom insert), a top element (top tray, top insert), and/or a center support (center support element, center tray, support body). These elements may retain multiple beverage containers, such as wine bottles, beer bottles, spirits bottles, and the like, for shipment in a container, such as a cardboard box, crate, or other container. The beverage containers may vary in size including, for example, 375 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml, or any other size. The term beverage container as used herein may also refer to any container that encloses a fluid, whether or not the fluid is a beverage. Beverage containers may be placed bottom down in the bottom tray. The center support rests on top of the bottom tray and separates the multiple bottles. The center support separates the bottom tray and top tray, thereby providing stacking support. The top tray rests on the center support. And the top element accommodates the top (neck) of the beverage containers. The bottom tray, center support, top tray, and beverage containers are placed in a container, such as a cardboard box, regular slotted container (RSC), crate, etc., for transit. 
     In various embodiments, the bottom tray comprises molded paper pulp fabricated from, for example, recycled paper products. The bottom tray may include multiple cup-shaped elements (cup-shaped cavities) each contoured to encapsulate the bottom of a beverage container, such as a wine bottle, beer bottle, spirits bottles, and the like. In certain cases, the cylindrical cup-shaped element includes an hourglass-shaped deformable element and/or a cross shaped deformable element protruding from the bottom surface of the cup, deformable protrusions on the walls of the cup, and/or other features. These features retain the base of the beverage container in a stationary position during shipment by contacting the base of the container in multiple locations. These features of the cup-shaped element, particularly the hourglass shaped and/or cross-shaped deformable element absorb energy when the container is subjected to impact forces, such as when the packaging is dropped or roughly handled. 
     In some embodiments, the top tray comprises molded paper pulp. In certain cases, the top tray may include multiple rectangular cup-shaped elements each contoured to encapsulate the top of a beverage container, such as the neck of a wine bottle, beer bottle, spirits bottle, or other container. The rectangular cup-shaped element may include a cylindrical depression, vertical protrusions on the walls of the cup, and/or other features. These features retain the neck and/or upper portion of the beverage container in a stationary position during shipment by contacting the neck of the container in multiple locations. 
     In various embodiments, the center support may comprise molded paper pulp that is molded to encapsulate beverage containers. 
     The beverage container packing assembly disclosed herein in various embodiments enables beverage containers to be packaged with thermo packs positioned between the containers. The beverage container packaging disclosed herein allows temperature-sensitive beverages to be packaged and transported without spoiling and/or degradation due to environmental effects. The beverage container packaging includes space to accommodate thermo packs and/or other items used to control temperature, while maintaining the structural integrity of the packaging. For example, beverage container packaging includes a combination of spaces or voids to accommodate thermo packs and/or other items used to control temperature and sufficient structural elements to withstand loads, impacts, and/or other dynamic events during shipping. In certain cases, the molded paper pulp and/or other packaging materials include a liquid resistant coating, plastic wrapping (though potentially less environmentally friendly), material treatment, and/or other features to accommodate the environmental effects of a thermo pack housed in the packaging. As disclosed herein, inclusion of thermo packs and/or other temperature regulation components with molded paper pulp or other packaging materials allows for temperature control in a cost effective, light weight, structurally sound, and environmentally-conscious packaging assembly. Other temperature regulation components or items used to control temperature may include heaters, mechanisms to provide heat, coolers, refrigerators, fans, ice packs, heating packs, chemical elements that heat or cool the packaging, and/or any other item or device to modify or control temperature in the packaging. 
     The center support according to some embodiments includes side walls around the perimeter of the center support. The center support include multiple walls that at least partially encapsulate the beverage containers. In certain cases, the center support includes multiple separate walls that encapsulate a beverage container. For example, a first wall may encapsulate a first portion of the beverage container, and a second wall may encapsulate a second portion of the beverage container. The center support includes center posts and structural supports that both increase stacking support and provide lateral protection. 
     The center support according to some embodiments may include a moisture resistant material that retains structural integrity throughout transit and storage. The thermo packs can provide additional protection of the beverage containers, but the packing assembly can also be used without thermo packs. The moisture resistance within the center support allows the center support to absorb excess moisture and pull moisture from the wine labels, thus adding another protection benefit. In contrast, expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers do not allow excessive moisture to escape from the cavity, leaving bottle labels at risk. The rapid exchange of temperature within the packing assembly described herein allows for rapid evaporation of moisture from within the regular slotted container (RSC) shipping container. 
     In various embodiments, the beverage container may also include box liners. For example, a box liner may provide insulation surrounding the packaging elements, such as the bottom tray, center support, and top tray. The box liner may line the inside a shipping container, such as cardboard box. Box liners of varying degrees of thickness, materials, and other properties may be used to enhance the thermal capabilities of the beverage container packaging. In certain cases, the box liner may include polylitic acid (PLA) materials. PLA materials provide favorable insulation capabilities, are made of organic materials, and compostable and recyclable. The box liner may in conjunction with, for example, the thermo transport packs increase the R value of the cooling time range for the beverage container packaging. In certain cases, the box liner is fabricated from recyclable materials to reduce the environmental impact of the beverage container packaging. 
       FIG.  1    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a beverage container packing assembly  100  may include a bottom tray  102  (e.g., bottom element), a top tray  104  (e.g., a top element), a center support  106  (e.g., center support element, partition element), and/or other components. The beverage container packing assembly  100  (also referred to as a packaging system or assembly) is configured to package a plurality of beverage containers for transit. In the example shown, the beverage container packing assembly  100  is configured to package twelve (12) beverage containers (not shown). The base of the beverage container (not shown) sits in a compartment of the bottom tray  102 . The center support  106  separates the bottom tray  102  and top tray  104 . The top tray  104  rests on the center support  106 . The top of the beverage container is encapsulated in a compartment of the top tray  104 . The center support  106  prevents the beverage containers from contacting during shipping and provides spacing between the bottom tray  102  and top tray  104 . As discussed in detail herein, the center support  106  is also configured to accommodate one or more transport thermo packs (not shown) that contact the beverage containers and/or maintain the beverage containers within in desired temperature range during transit. 
       FIG.  2    depicts a bottom tray of a beverage container packaging assembly according to some embodiments. As shown, the bottom tray  200  includes a plurality of first compartments  202 . The number of first compartments  202  corresponds to a number of beverage containers the bottom tray  200  is configured to accommodate. In the example shown, the bottom tray  200  includes twelve first compartments  202 —three rows of four first compartments  202  or four columns of three first compartments  202 . The bottom tray  200  shown is configured to accommodate  12  beverage containers.  FIG.  2    depicts one example configuration of first compartments. Aspects of this disclosure, however, are in no way limited to the depicted configuration or number of first compartments  202 . In other instances, a bottom tray (and associated beverage container packaging) be configured to accommodate six beverage containers (three rows of two beverage containers), nine beverage containers (three rows of three containers), 15 containers (five rows of three containers), 16 containers (four rows of four containers), and so on. 
     In certain cases, the bottom tray  200  includes one or more first support columns  204  configured to support the center support (not shown). Each of the first support columns  204  (six in the example shown) may include a plurality of platforms  206  (e.g., deformable post elements, protrusions, etc.) that form flat surfaces to contact the center support. The platforms  206  may be arranged in sets to resemble a cross-shape or X-shape. The platforms  206  may also be deformable and/or flexible to absorb load applied to the bottom tray  200 , thereby reducing any load applied to the beverage containers. The platforms  206  may be separated by a depressed portion, such as the cross-shaped or X-shaped depressed portion  208  in  FIG.  2   . 
       FIG.  3    depicts a first view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a bottom tray  300  includes a plurality of first compartments  302  (twelve first compartments shown). In certain cases, each of the first compartments  302  is cylindrical and/or substantially cylindrical. The first compartments  302  may include a bottom portion and multiple side walls forming a cup shape. In certain cases, the side walls may not be vertical but may include draft, such as a seven-degree draft, to enable the bottom tray  300  to be easily removed from a mold during fabrication. 
     The first compartments  302  may include one or more of base deformable elements  304  on the base (bottom) of the first compartment  302 . The first compartment  302  may include a first side panel deformable element  306 , a second side panel deformable element  308 , and a third side panel deformable element  310 . The first compartment  302  may include a thin deformable element  312  (for example, a corner deformable element) that extends from the side of the first compartment  302  to the base of the first compartment  302 . In various embodiments, the first compartments  302  include multiple thin deformable elements  312 . In certain cases, the thin deformable elements  312  extend from a center of first compartments and up a side of the first compartments  302 . The thin deformable elements  312  terminate at the bottom of the first compartment  302  in a cross-shape and/or X-shape end  318  (e.g., cross shape element). The ends  318  include multiple overlapping elements. The cross-shaped ends  318  may assist in absorbing impact from a bottom of bottle when, for example, an assembly is dropped. The cross-shaped ends  318  may reduce damage to the end of thin deformable element  312  when, for example, the bottom tray  300  is bent. The cross-shaped ends  318  eliminate a stress concentration point and allow load to be distributed to other elements when the bottom tray  300  is bent or otherwise loaded. 
     In various embodiments, base deformable elements  304  on the base (bottom) of the first compartments  302  may be raised (protrusions) from the bottom surface of the first compartment  302 . The base deformable elements  304  on the bottom of the first compartments  302  may resemble a cross, a plus sign, overlapping bowties, spirals, wheels with spokes, ovals, lines of logo or design, pictures resembling common shapes, and/or other a variety of similar shapes. The base deformable elements  304  are configured to absorb impact with the bottom of a beverage container, such as a load applied to a top or bottom of a beverage container when boxes are stacked, a box is dropped, and/or otherwise handled. The base deformable element  304  may be particularly effective in absorbing impact on a bottle with a convex bottom shape, such as certain wine bottles. In certain cases, wider portions  322  of the cross-shaped base deformable element  304  are configured to contact the outer edges of the bottom of a beverage container, such as a wine bottle. Thinner portions  314  of the cross-shaped base deformable element  304  allow the element to deform (for example, by bending, crumpling, and/or otherwise deforming) when a load is applied to a beverage container housed in the bottom tray  300 . The base deformable element  304  deforms to absorb load and reduce damage to a bottle, particularly when a load is applied down from the top on the bottle or when the packing assembly is dropped. 
     In some embodiments, the base deformable elements  304  on the bottom of the first compartments  302  include holes  316 . The holes  316  may vent air as the bottom tray  300  is lowered into a box (not shown). The holes  316  may reduce the vacuum in the box as the bottom tray  300  is installed in a box, thereby making assembly easier. Vent holes  316  may also enable air to enter the space between the box and the bottom tray  300  when the bottom tray  300  is removed from the box. 
     In various embodiments, the first compartment  302  includes multiple side panel deformable elements  306 ,  308 . The side panel deformable elements  306 ,  308  are configured to contact the sides of a beverage container (not shown). In certain cases, the first side panel deformable element  306  and the second side panel deformable element  308  are configured to contact the outside of a bottle. The side panel deformable elements  306 ,  308  may be sized such that a bottle contacts at least a portion of each of the side panel deformable elements  306 ,  308  when loaded into the first compartment  302 . The bottle (not shown) and side panel deformable elements  306 ,  308  may contact one another in an interference fit, such that a force is necessary to push the bottle into the first compartment  302  and a force is necessary to remove the bottle from the first compartment  302 . Securing the bottle in the first compartment  302  in such a manner ensures that the bottle is stationary during transit, thereby reducing any potential damage. 
     In certain cases, a first type of side panel deformable elements  306  are included on the walls between adjacent first compartments  302 . The side panel deformable elements  306  include a contoured protrusion configured to contact the outside of a bottle. 
     In some embodiments, a second type of side panel deformable elements  308  are included on outer walls of the first compartment  302  (e.g., walls of the first compartments  302  not adjacent to any other first compartments  302 ). A lower portion of the second side panel deformable elements  308  may resemble the structure of the first side panel deformable elements  306 , and an upper portion may include multiple thinner protrusions  310 ,  320 . In the example shown, the multiple thinner protrusions  310 ,  320  may resemble tines of a fork. 
     According to some embodiments, the first compartment  302  includes multiple thin deformable elements  312  (e.g., corner deformable elements). In certain cases, thin deformable element  312  may extend from a center of the first compartment  302  up a side of the first compartment  302 . The corner deformable elements  312  may include thin protrusions spaced roughly 90 degrees apart from one another. In certain cases, the thin deformable elements  312  may be spaced roughly 45 degrees from the intersection of the cross-shaped base deformable element  304 . In the example shown, there are four thin deformable elements  312  in each first compartment  302 . Though in other cases, the first compartment  302  may include other numbers of thin deformable elements  312 . 
     In various embodiments, the cup-shaped elements  302  elements include rounded corners  324  at a base of the cup-shaped elements  302 . The rounded corners  324  may allow the bottom tray  300  to endure more repeated loading. The rounded corners  324  also accommodate the shape of the bottom of a beverage container. 
       FIG.  4    depicts a second view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. In the example shown, which may include an opposite side of the bottom tray from  FIG.  3   , a bottom tray  400  includes multiple first compartments  402 . The bottom side of the bottom tray  400  includes pulp paper. The bottom side of the first compartments  402  may include protrusions  404  (e.g., four protrusions in the example shown) extending from the bottom of the first compartments  402  up each side. The protrusions  404  may absorb impact and reduce loads applied to the beverage containers during, for example, an impact event. 
       FIG.  5    depicts a bottom tray according to various embodiments. In the bottom tray  500  shown, a first cross-section A-A depicts a cross-section of the first compartment  502  of the bottom tray  500  in a first direction. The first cross-section A-A is depicted in  FIG.  6   . A second cross section B-B depicts a cross-section of the first compartment  502  in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second cross-section B-B is depicted in  FIG.  7   . 
       FIG.  6    depicts a first cross-section view of a first compartment of a bottom tray according to various embodiments.  FIG.  6    includes a cross-section view along section A-A as shown in  FIG.  5   . In the example shown, the cross-section passes through the center of the hourglass shaped deformable element  600 . The center of the hourglass shaped deformable element  600  includes a thinner portion  602  of the hourglass shaped deformable element  600 . The wider portion  604  of the hourglass shaped deformable element  600  is shown in the background. The wider portion  604  contacts the outer edges of the bottom of a beverage container. The second deformable elements  606  also contact the outer edges of the bottom of the beverage container (not shown). First vertical elements  608  contact the sides of the beverage container to retain the container in place. Thin deformable elements  610  extend from the center of the cup-shaped element up the sides of the first compartment. In certain cases, a thin deformable element  612  may be disposed between the first vertical elements  606 . 
       FIG.  7    depicts a second cross-section view of a first compartment of a bottom tray according to various embodiments.  FIG.  7    includes a cross-section view along section B-B as shown in  FIG.  5   . In the example shown, the cross-section passes through the center of the hourglass shaped deformable element  700 . The thinner portions  702  and wider portions  704  of the hourglass shaped element  700  are raised up from a bottom surface of the first compartment. The wider portions of the hourglass shaped element  700  contact a beverage container placed into the cup-shaped element. When a load is applied to a beverage container with a convex bottom (such as a wine bottle, beer bottle, etc.), the wider portions  704 , which contact the bottom of the bottle, are configured to deform and absorb the energy of the load. The second deformable portion  706  (shown in the background of the cross-section) is similarly configured to deform and absorb a load applied to a beverage container. 
       FIG.  8    depicts first compartments of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. In the example shown, the bottom tray  800  may include first compartments  802 ,  804  that are cylindrical and/or substantially cylindrical. The bottom tray  800  may include a detailed view of the compartments of bottom tray  500  of  FIG.  5   . The first compartments may include a bottom portion and multiple side walls forming a cup shape. In certain cases, the side walls may not be exactly vertical but may include draft to enable the bottom tray  800  to be easily removed from a mold during fabrication. 
     Each of the multiple first compartments  802 ,  804  includes a first deformable element  806  (e.g., an hourglass shaped element, bow-tie shaped element), second deformable elements  808 , vertical elements  810 ,  812 ,  814 ,  816 , and other elements. The first deformable element  806  may be raised (e.g., a protrusion) from the bottom surface of the first compartments  802 ,  804 . The first deformable element  806  may resemble an hourglass, bow tie, or other similar shape. The first deformable element  806  is configured to absorb impact applied to a top of a beverage container (not shown). The first deformable element  806  may be particularly effective in absorbing impact from a bottle with a convex bottom surface, such as a wine bottle. Wider portions  818  of the hourglass shaped element  806  are configured to contact the outer edges of the bottom of a bottle, such as a wine bottle. Thinner portions  820  of the hourglass shaped element  806  allow the element to deform (for example, by bending, crumpling, and/or otherwise deforming) when a load is applied to a beverage container housed in the bottom tray  800 . The hourglass shaped element  806  deforms to absorb load and reduce damage to a bottle, particularly when a load is applied down from the top on the bottle or when the packing assembly is dropped. 
     The first compartments  802 ,  804  may include second deformable elements  808 . The second deformable elements  808  may resemble two adjacent mountain peaks. Similar to the first deformable element  806 , the second deformable elements  808  are configured to contact the outer edges of the bottom of a bottle, such as a wine bottle. When a load is applied to the top of the wine bottle, when the beverage container packaging is dropped, or when the bottle is otherwise subjected to a force, the second deformable elements  808  are configured to absorb the load and/or energy of the load by, for example, crushing, buckling, and/or otherwise deforming. 
     In various embodiments, the first compartments  802 ,  804  include multiple vertical deformable elements  810 ,  812 ,  814 . The vertical deformable elements  810 ,  812 ,  814  contact the sides of a beverage container (not shown). In certain cases, first vertical elements  810 , second vertical elements  812 , and third vertical elements  814  are configured to contact the outside of a bottle. The first vertical elements  810 , second vertical elements  812 , and third vertical elements  814  may be sized, such that a bottle contacts all of the vertical elements  810 ,  812 ,  814  when loaded into the first compartments  802 ,  804 . The bottle (not shown) and vertical deformable elements  810 ,  812 ,  814  may contact one another in an interference fit, such that a force is necessary to push the bottle into one of the first compartments  802 ,  804  and a force is necessary to remove the bottle from the first compartments  802 ,  804 . Securing the bottles in the first compartments  802 ,  804  in such a manner ensures that the bottles are stationary during transit, thereby reducing any potential damage. 
     According to various embodiments, the first compartments  802 ,  804  include multiple thin deformable elements  816 ,  822 . In certain cases, four thin deformable elements  816  may extend from a center of the first compartments  802 ,  804  up a side of the first compartments  802 ,  804 . The four thin deformable elements  816  may include thin protrusions spaced roughly 90 degrees apart from one another. The thin deformable elements  816  may collectively form an X-shape, with each thin deformable element  816  extending from the center of the X along the bottom and up a side wall. In certain cases, a portion of a first thin deformable element  816  extending along the wall of the first compartments  802 ,  804  may extend further from the surface than a portion of the thin deformable element spanning the bottom of the first compartments  802 ,  804 . In other words, the portion of the thin deformable element  816  spanning the wall may be taller (higher) than the portion spanning the bottom of the first compartments  802 ,  804 . In some embodiments, second thin deformable elements  822  may be disposed between vertical elements  810 . Similar to the vertical elements, thin deformable elements  816 ,  822  are configured to absorb impact energy and/or loads applied to the sides of the bottle. The thin deformable elements  816 ,  822  prevent damage to the bottom and sides of the bottle. 
       FIG.  9    depicts a bottom tray and center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a bottom tray  902  houses a plurality of beverage containers  908 , and a center support  906  rests upon the bottom tray  902 . A beverage container  908  (e.g., a wine bottle) is seated in a compartment  910  of the bottom tray  902 . The compartment  910  is shaped to retain the beverage container  908  in a vertical configuration during transit. In the example shown, the center support  906  is fabricated from molded paper pulp and/or similar materials. The center support  906  defines a plurality of through holes  912 ,  914 ,  916 . Each of the plurality of through holes  912 ,  914 ,  916  is configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therethrough. In the example shown, the center support  906  includes 12 through holes. A middle portion of the beverage container  918  extends through each of the through holes (e.g., beverage container  908  extends through hole  912 ). 
       FIG.  9    depicts one example configuration of the bottom tray and center support that accommodates 12 beverage containers. This disclosure, however, is in no way limited to a beverage container packing configuration accommodating 12 beverage containers. For example, a bottom tray, center support, top tray, and associated beverage container packaging may be configured to accommodate six beverage containers (three rows of two beverage containers), nine beverage containers (three rows of three containers), 15 containers (five rows of three containers), 16 containers (four rows of four containers), 20 containers (five rows of four containers), and/or any other number of beverage containers. 
       FIG.  10    depicts a center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support  1000  (also referred to as a support body) of a beverage container packing assembly is depicted. The center support  1000  defines a plurality of through holes  1002 - 1020 . Each of the plurality of through holes  1002 - 1020  is configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therethrough. The center support  1000  may include support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046  (six shown), which may include second support columns. The support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046  are configured to stack on one of the one or more first support columns of the bottom tray (e.g., first support columns  204  of  FIG.  2   ). 
     In use, the center support  1000  is configured to accommodate one or more transport thermo packs. The transport thermo packs may be installed in various configurations in the center support  1000 . The center support  1000  comprises multiple surfaces to accommodate installation of the thermo packs. In one example (as further depicted for example in  FIG.  12   ), transport thermo packs are placed between rows of a plurality of beverage containers. Transport thermo packs are placed, for example, between a first row  1026  and a second row  1028  of a plurality of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row. For example, three beverage containers could be disposed in the three through holes  1002 ,  1004 ,  1006 , forming a first row  1026 , and three beverage containers could be disposed in the three through holes  1008 ,  1010 ,  1012 , forming a second row  1028 . Three beverage containers may be disposed in holes forming a third row  1030 , three beverage containers may be disposed in holes forming a fourth row  1032 , and so on. Additional transport thermo packs may be installed between the second row  1028  and the third row  1030 . Transport thermo packs may also be installed between the third row  1030  and fourth row  1032 . The center support  1000  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs between the first row  1026  and a second row  1028 , between the second row  1028  and third row  1030 , and/or between the third row  1030  and fourth row  1032 . The center support  1000  allows the thermo packs to be installed between the beverage containers, while maintaining the structural integrity of the packaging. 
     In another example (as further depicted for example in  FIG.  13   ), transport thermo packs are placed between columns of a plurality of beverage containers. Transport may be placed between a first column  1034  and second column  1036  of a plurality of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first column and a plurality of beverage containers of the second column. For example, four beverage containers could be disposed in the four through holes forming a first column  1034 , and four beverage containers could be disposed in the four through holes forming a second column  1036 . Four beverage containers may be disposed in holes forming a third column  1038 . Transport thermo packs may be installed between the first column  1034  and the second column  1036 . Transport thermo packs may be installed between the second column  1036  and third column  1038 . The center support  1000  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs between the first column  1034  and a second column  1036  and/or between the second column  1036  and third column  1038 . 
     As discussed herein, the transport thermo pack may be, for example, an ice pack, or substance that can be cooled or frozen and can absorb thermal energy from the beverage containers and the environment, keeping the beverage containers cool. Alternatively, the transport thermo pack may be a heating pack that radiates thermal energy, thereby maintaining the beverage containers at a higher temperature than would be possible without a heating source. The center support  1000  according to various embodiments may accommodate a plurality of transport thermo packs. Each transport thermo pack may transmit thermal energy to or absorb thermal energy from one or more beverage containers. The transport thermo pack may be contoured to match the space between adjacent rows of beverage containers. 
     According to various embodiments, support columns  1022 ,  1024  extend between a first row  1026  and a second row  1028  of beverage containers. Support columns  1040 ,  1042  also extend between second row  1028  and third row  1030 . Support columns may also extend between the third row  1030  and fourth row  1032 . 
     According to various embodiments, the center support includes a plurality of support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046 . The total number of the support columns may be equal, less than, and/or greater than the total number of the one or more first support columns of the bottom tray (e.g., first support columns  204  of  FIG.  2   ). The second support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046  provide structural support and/or rigidity as the packaging is exposed to loading and impact during transit. For example, the second support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046  transmit load between the top tray and bottom tray when the package is subjected to vertical loading. In certain cases, load from the top tray is transferred through the walls of the through holes, into the support columns, and into the first support columns of the bottom tray. For example, the center support  1000  may include six second support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 - 1046 , while the bottom tray  200  depicted in  FIG.  2    includes six first support columns  204 . 
     The center support  1000  may include a lower edge  1050  that forms a perimeter around the through holes. The lower edge  1050  may extend to an inner surface of a box or other container in which the beverage packing assembly is disposed. The lower edge  1050  may connect to the walls  1052  defining the through holes on the edges of the center support  1000 . For example, in  FIG.  10   , there are ten through holes on the edges of the center support  1000 , and two through holes  1010 ,  1018  on the interior of the center support  1000 . Each of the through holes on the edges of the center support  1000  is at least partially defined by a wall. In certain cases, each of the through holes on the corners of the center support  1000  are partially defined by a wall that is configured to extend more than 180 degrees around the beverage container. In various embodiments, the wall defining the certain through holes may be configured to extend about 270 degrees around the beverage container. In certain cases, some through holes may be configured to extend less than or equal to 180 degrees around the beverage container. The one or more of the through holes along the edges of the center support  1000  that are not on the corners of support  1000  are partially defined by a wall that is configured to extend less than  180  degrees around the beverage container. The walls of adjacent through holes may connect to form a continuous, undulating surface along the side of the center support  1000 . The walls may have an inverted cup-like shape, with the walls tilting inward slightly from the edge  1050  at the base of the center support  1000  to the through holes as the top of the center support. In certain cases, the walls may include draft, such as a seven-degree draft, for example to enable the center tray to be easily removed from a mold during fabrication. 
     In certain cases, the through holes are contoured to fit particular types of bottles. The through holes may be various shapes, such as circular, oval, rectangular, and/or any shape. In some configurations, one or more of the through holes may include different sizes and/or shapes. For example, one or more of the through holes may configured for smaller bottle, while other through holes are configured for larger bottles. 
     Although the center support depicted in  FIG.  10    according to various embodiments includes 12 through holes with six support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 - 1046 , this disclosure is not limited to this configuration and is intended to encompass a wide variety of center support designs. The center support  1000  may include more or fewer through holes and more or fewer support columns. Further, the second support columns may have different positions than those shown in the drawings. The second support columns may have alternative positions that still allow the center support to accommodate a transport thermo pack. 
       FIG.  11    depicts an underside of a center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support includes multiple through holes  1102 - 1110 . The through holes may be defined by one or more side walls. For example, corner through hole  1102  may include at least two sides: a first side wall  1112 , a second side wall  1114 , and/or other side walls. A first side wall  1112  may extend from the bottom surface  1116  to the top surface (not shown) of the center support  1100 . As shown, the first side wall  1112  may be configured to surround more than half of a beverage container. The second side wall  1114  extends from the bottom surface  1116  to a point short of the top surface of the center support  1100 . The second side wall  1114  may be shorter than the first side wall  1112 . The second side wall  1114  may include a portion the support columns  1120 - 1130 . The side wall(s)  1112  may define the through holes along the edges of the center support  1100  form a continuous, undulating surface that surrounds all 12 of the through holes, providing support and protection for the beverage containers disposed therein. The side walls  1112  may also include deformable elements  1118 . The deformable elements  1118  may contact the beverage container and/or secure the beverage containers in place during transit. The deformable elements  1118  may also be configured to deform when a load is applied to the beverage container packaging. When the deformable elements  1118  flex, the center support  1100  absorbs the impact of any load applied and protects the beverage containers from damage. In certain cases, the deformable elements  1118  may include denesting lugs and may aid in denesting a stack of nested center supports. 
     In various embodiments, the center support  1100  includes one or more support columns  1120 - 1130 . In the example shown, the center support  1100  includes six support columns  1120 - 1130 . The support columns  1120 - 1130  may include and/or correspond to the support columns  1022 ,  1024 ,  1040 ,  1042 ,  1044 ,  1046  of  FIG.  10   . In certain cases, the support columns  1120 - 1130  may include the shape of star-shaped posts, cross-shaped contoured posts, and/or other elements. The second support columns  1120 - 1130  include a diamond-shaped inner portion  1132  (e.g., square and/or rectangular shaped inner portion) and star point elements  1134  that extend away from the center of the support columns  1120 - 1130 . The star-point elements  1134  may extend, for example, at ninety-degree angles (e.g., orthogonal to one another) to form the shape of a star and/or cross. In certain cases, the support columns  1120 - 1130  include deformable elements  1138 . The deformable elements  1138  may contact the beverage container and/or secure the beverage containers in place during transit. The deformable elements  1138  may also be configured to deform when a load is applied to the beverage container packaging. In certain cases, the deformable elements  1138  of the support columns may function similar to the deformable elements  1118 . In certain cases, a center support  1100  includes recessed elements  1136  elements between the posts  1120 - 1130 . The recessed elements  1136  between posts  1120 - 1130  allow the posts  1120 - 1130  to tilt relative to one another and the center support  1100  to flex during use. 
     In various embodiments, through holes  1108 ,  1110  in the inner portion of the center support  1100  are surrounded (at least partially) by support columns. For example, through hole  1108  is surrounded by four support columns  1120 ,  1122 ,  1124 ,  1126 . The support columns may include deformable elements  1140  that contact the beverage container and secure the container in place during transit. 
     According to some embodiments, the support columns  1120 - 1130  may be hollow and have an inverted shape with respect to the shape of the first support columns of the bottom tray. As depicted in  FIGS.  2  and  3   , the first support columns (e.g., support columns  204  of  FIG.  2   ) of the bottom tray may be hollow and may have a width that tapers to a flat upper surface. When the center support  1100  is in an upright orientation, as in  FIG.  10   , the second support columns  1120 - 1130  have a width that tapers to a flat lower surface, thus having an inverted shape with respect to the shape of the first support columns of the bottom tray. The flat surfaces of the center support columns  1120 - 1130  contact the flat upper surfaces of the bottom tray support columns. When the support columns of the bottom tray (e.g., support columns  204  of  FIG.  2   ) contact the support columns  1120 - 1130  a load path is generated transfer any applied loads through the centers support  1100  and into the bottom tray, while reducing loading on and damage to the beverage containers. 
     In various embodiments, the second support columns  1120 - 1130  may be connected to form adjoining support columns. The adjoining columns may include to adjoined towers with two distinct high points. The adjoining columns in certain cases may resemble multiple towers adjoined by a lower base portion. There may include for example a U-shaped or V-shaped recessed elements (depressions)  1136  between the two high points of the columns. This configuration may be advantageous in, for example, improving the structural strength of the packaging. 
       FIG.  12    depicts a first configuration of a bottom tray supporting twelve beverage containers, a center support disposed on the bottom tray, and three transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a bottom tray  1202  houses twelve beverage containers  1204 . A center support  1206  rests on the bottom tray  1202 . The twelve beverage containers  1204  are arranged in four rows of three beverage containers. The center support  1206  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214 . A transport thermo pack  1210  may be installed between a first row  1216  of beverage containers (e.g., through holes) and a second row  1218  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  1210  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row  1216  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row  1218 . A transport thermo pack  1212  may be installed between the second row  1218  of beverage containers and a third row  1220  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  1212  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the second row  1218  and a plurality of beverage containers of the third row  1220 . A transport thermo pack  1214  may be installed between the third row  1220  of beverage containers and a fourth row  1222  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  1214  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the third row  1220  and a plurality of beverage containers of the fourth row  1222 . 
     As described herein, the transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  can be heating packs or cooling packs, so that the transport packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  can heat or cool the beverage containers. The ability to heat or cool the beverage containers enables the assembly to be used to transport temperature-sensitive beverages. The transport thermo pack may directly contact the beverage containers to facilitate the transfer of energy between the transport thermo pack and the beverage containers. The transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may directly contact at least a portion of the beverage containers  1204  to facilitate the transfer of energy between the transport thermo pack and the beverage containers. In some cases, the transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may directly contact at least a portion of each beverage containers  1204  (e.g., all twelve beverage containers depicted in  FIG.  12   ). 
     As described in detail herein, transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may be contoured based on the packaging geometry, beverage containers, and/or other elements. Transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may be shaped to accommodate the outer contour of a beverage container. The transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may shaped to contact a portion of the surface of the beverage containers. For example, the width, height, and/or thickness of the transport thermo pack may be designed to accommodate the shape of a beverage container  1204 . 
     In some embodiments, transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  are shaped to encapsulate at least a portion of the beverage containers. Transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may, for example, fully encapsulate a single beverage container, a set of beverage containers, or all beverage containers in a package. A package may include multiple transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  each including different shapes. The shapes of each of the one or more transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may be configured to accommodate the shapes of the beverage containers in the package. 
     In some embodiments, a transport thermo pack  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  may be configured to control the temperature and humidity in the package. The transport thermo pack may, for example, increase the humidity in the package. In some cases, the transport thermo pack may absorb moisture in the package to decrease the humidity of the package. Humidity control may be useful in scenarios where beverage containers are transmitted in conjunction with food items, vegetation, tobacco products, medicines, and/or other material affected by humidity changes. 
     In various embodiments, a transport thermo pack (for example, the transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214 ) may be, for example, an ice pack, or substance that can be cooled or frozen and can absorb thermal energy from the beverage containers and the environment, keeping the beverage containers cool. A thermo pack may include, for example, a plastic or other material that encloses a fluid or solid that absorbs thermal energy. In one example, the thermo pack includes a gel-based cold pack. In another example, the thermo pack includes ice, a solid that simulates ice, and/or other solid that absorbs thermal energy. 
     Alternatively, a transport thermo pack may be a heating pack that radiates thermal energy, thereby maintaining the beverage containers at a higher temperature than would be possible without a heating source. The center support according to various embodiments may accommodate a plurality of transport thermo packs. Each transport thermo pack may transmit thermal energy to or absorb thermal energy from one or more beverage containers. The transport thermo pack may be contoured to match the space between adjacent rows of beverage containers. 
       FIG.  13    depicts a second configuration of a bottom tray supporting twelve beverage containers, a center support disposed on the bottom tray, and two transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a bottom tray  1302  and a center support  1306  supporting twelve beverage containers  1304  according to various embodiments. The twelve beverage containers  1304  are arranged in four rows of three beverage containers, or alternatively three columns  1316 ,  1318 ,  1320  of four beverage containers. The center support  1306  is configured to accommodate one or more transport thermo packs. In the example shown, two transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  are used. A transport thermo pack  1310  may be installed between a first column  1316  of beverage containers and a second column  1318  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  1310  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first column  1316  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second column  1318 . A transport thermo pack  1312  may be installed between the second column  1318  of beverage containers and a third column  1320  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  1312  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first column  1318  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second column  1320 . 
     The transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may be similar to transport thermo packs  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  of  FIG.  12   . The transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may directly contact at least a portion of the beverage containers  1304  to facilitate the transfer of energy between the transport thermo pack and the beverage containers. In some cases, the transport thermo packs  1310  may directly contact at least a portion of each beverage containers  1304  (e.g., all twelve beverage containers depicted in  FIG.  13   ). For example, transport thermo pack  1310  may contact the four beverage containers in the first column  1316  and the four beverage containers in the second column  1318 . Transport thermo pack  1312  may contact the four beverage containers in the second column  1318  and the four beverage containers in the third column  1320 . 
     As described in detail herein, transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may be contoured based on the packaging geometry, beverage containers, and/or other elements. Transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may be shaped to accommodate the outer contour of a particular beverage container. The transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may shaped to contact a portion of the surface of the beverage containers. For example, the width, height, and/or thickness of the transport thermo pack may be designed to accommodate the shape of a beverage container  1304 . Different transport thermo packs  1310 ,  1312  may be used depending the type of beverage containers transport, the beverages included therein, environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity, pressure, etc.) expected during transit, and/or a variety of other factors. 
       FIG.  14    depicts a top tray of a beverage container packing assembly according to some embodiments. In the example shown, the top tray  1400  (e.g., top tray  104  of  FIG.  1   ) includes multiple vertical posts  1402 ,  1404 . In certain cases, the vertical posts  1402 ,  1404  form the sides (bounds) of second compartments  1406  in the top tray  1400 . The second compartments are configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therein, such as a neck of a wine bottle. The number of second compartments  1406  corresponds to a number of beverage containers the top tray  1400  is configured to accommodate. In the example shown, the top tray  1400  includes twelve second compartments  1406 —three (3) rows of four (4) second compartments—and the top tray  1400  is configured to accommodate twelve beverage containers. Some of the vertical posts  1402 ,  1404  may be third support columns that that are configured to stack on top of the linear surface of the center support. For example, in  FIG.  14   , vertical post  1402  (e.g., support column) may be a third support column that is configured to stack on top the center support. A total number of the plurality of second support columns of the center support may be less than a total number of the plurality of third support columns. 
       FIG.  15    depicts a second view of a top tray according to some embodiments. In the example shown, the top tray  1500  includes multiple vertical posts  1502 ,  1504  that form second compartments  1506 . For example, the vertical posts  1502 ,  1504  may include deformable elements  1508 ,  1510  that contact the neck of a beverage container and hold it in place during shipping. The deformable elements  1508 ,  1510  may also deform to absorb lateral loads applied to a bottle during transit. In some cases, the vertical posts  1502 ,  1504  may include trapezoidal deformable elements  1512  (e.g., protrusions) on a top of the vertical post  1502 ,  1504 . The trapezoidal elements  1512  may contact portions of the center support. 
     In certain cases, a top end of the second compartments  1506  includes a circular depression  1514  (e.g., circular depressed region). The circular depression  1514  may accommodate the size of a wine cork such that the wine bottle rim contacts the top tray but not the cork, for example, when a load is applied down on the top tray  1500 . The circular depression  1514  may include a thin deformable element bisecting the circular depression  1514 . 
     In some embodiments, the top tray  1500  includes one or more holes  1516 . Similar to the holes discussed with respect to other components of bottle packing assembly, the holes  1516  reduce vacuum generated when the top tray is placed into a box. 
       FIG.  16    depicts a third view of a top tray in an upright orientation according to various embodiments. In the example shown, the top tray  1600  includes the structure underlying the second compartments  1602  (e.g., the second compartments  1506  of  FIG.  15   ). The top side (on assembly) of the top tray  1600  includes pulp paper. The top side of the second compartments  1602  may include cross-shaped protrusions  1604  (e.g., four protrusions meeting at a point in the example shown). The cross-shaped protrusions  1604  may absorb impact and reduce loads applied to the beverage containers during, for example, an impact event. 
       FIG.  17    depicts a center support of a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support  1700  (also referred to as a support body) of a beverage container packing assembly is depicted. The center support  1700  in this example may be configured to accommodate six beverage containers. The center support  1700  defines a plurality of through holes  1702 - 1712 . Each of the plurality of through holes  1702 - 1712  is configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therethrough. The center support  1700  may include support columns  1714 ,  1716  (two shown), which may include second support columns. The support columns  1714 ,  1716  are configured to stack on one or more first support columns of a bottom tray configured to accommodate six beverage containers. 
     In use, the center support  1700  is configured to accommodate one or more transport thermo packs. The transport thermo packs may be installed in various configurations in the center support  1700 . The center support  1700  comprises multiple surfaces to accommodate installation of the thermo packs. In one example, transport thermo packs are placed between rows of a plurality of beverage containers. Transport thermo packs are placed, for example, between a first row  1720  and a second row  1722  of a plurality of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row  1720  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row  1722 . For example, two beverage containers could be disposed in the two through holes  1702 ,  1712 , forming a first row  1720 , and two beverage containers could be disposed in the two through holes  1704 ,  1710 , forming a second row  1722 . Two beverage containers may be disposed in two through holes  1706 ,  1708  forming a third row  1724 , and so on. Additional transport thermo packs may be installed between the second row  1722  and the third row  1724 . The center support  1000  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs between the first row  1720  and a second row  1722  and/or between the second row  1722  and third row  1724 . The center support  1700  allows the thermo packs to be installed between the beverage containers, while maintaining the structural integrity of the packaging. 
     In another example, transport thermo packs are placed between columns of a plurality of beverage containers. Transport may be placed between a first column  1726  (e.g., columns may refer to rows of more than two through holes in the example shown) and second column  1728  of a plurality of beverage containers. The terms row and columns may be used interchangeably when referring to sets of through holes or beverage containers. The transport thermo pack may extend linearly between a plurality of beverage containers (or through holes) of the first column  1726  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second column  1728 . For example, three beverage containers could be disposed in the three through holes forming a first column  1726 , and three beverage containers could be disposed in the three through holes forming a second column  1728 . Transport thermo packs may be installed between the first column  1726  and the second column  1728 . 
     As discussed herein, the transport thermo pack may be, for example, an ice pack, or substance that can be cooled or frozen and can absorb thermal energy from the beverage containers and the environment, keeping the beverage containers cool. Alternatively, the transport thermo pack may be a heating pack that radiates thermal energy, thereby maintaining the beverage containers at a higher temperature than would be possible without a heating source. The center support  1700  according to various embodiments may accommodate a plurality of transport thermo packs. Each transport thermo pack may transmit thermal energy to or absorb thermal energy from one or more beverage containers. The transport thermo pack may be contoured to match the space between adjacent rows or columns of beverage containers. 
     According to various embodiments, a support column  1714  extend between a first row  1720  and a second row  1722  of beverage containers. A support column  1716  also extends between the second row  1722  and the third row  1724 . According to various embodiments, support columns  1714 ,  1716  may extend between a first column  1726  and second column  1728  of beverage containers. 
     In some embodiments, the support columns  1714 ,  1716  resemble a star, cross, or x-shaped cup. A support column  1714 ,  1716  may include one or more protruding elements  1730 . The support columns  1714 ,  1716  may be connected by a channel element  1732  (e.g., channel portion, recessed portion). 
     According to various embodiments, the center support includes a plurality of support columns  1714 ,  1716  The total number of the support columns may be equal, less than, and/or greater than the total number of the one or more first support columns of a bottom tray. The second support columns  1714 ,  1716  provide structural support and/or rigidity as the packaging is exposed to loading and impact during transit. For example, the second support columns  1714 ,  1716  transmit load between the top tray and bottom tray when the package is subjected to vertical loading. In certain cases, load from the top tray is transferred through the walls of the through holes, into the support columns, and into the first support columns of the bottom tray. For example, the center support  1700  may include two second support columns  1714 ,  1716  while the bottom tray includes an equal number of support columns. 
     The center support  1700  may include a lower edge  1734  that forms a perimeter around the through holes. The lower edge  1734  may extend to an inner surface of a box or other container in which the beverage packing assembly is disposed. The lower edge  1734  may connect to the walls  1736  defining the through holes on the edges of the center support  1700 . Each of the through holes of the center support  1700  is at least partially defined by a wall. In certain cases, each of the through holes on the corners of the center support  1700  (e.g., through holes  1702 ,  1706 ,  1708 ,  1712 ) are partially defined by a wall  1736  that is configured to extend more than 180 degrees around the beverage container. In certain cases, the wall  1736  includes multiple deformable elements  1740  (e.g. protrusions that form an undulating surface along the wall  1736 ). In various embodiments, the wall defining the certain through holes may be configured to extend about 270 degrees around the beverage container. In certain cases, some through holes may be configured to extend less than or equal to 180 degrees around the beverage container. One or more of the through holes along the edges of the center support  1700  that are not on the corners of support  1700  (e.g., through holes  1704 ,  1710 ) are partially defined by a wall that is configured to extend 180 degrees or less around the beverage container. The walls of adjacent through holes may connect to form a continuous, undulating surface  1738  along the side of the center support  1700 . The walls may have an inverted cup-like shape, with the walls tilting inward slightly from the edge  1734  at the base of the center support  1700  to the through holes as the top  1742  of the center support. In certain cases, the walls may include draft, such as a seven-degree draft, for example to enable the center tray to be easily removed from a mold during fabrication. 
     In certain cases, the through holes are contoured to fit particular types of bottles. The through holes may be various shapes, such as circular, a shape defined by multiple radii, oval, rectangular, and/or any shape. In some configurations, one or more of the through holes may include different sizes and/or shapes. For example, one or more of the through holes may configured for smaller bottle, while other through holes are configured for larger bottles. 
     Although the center support depicted in  FIG.  17    according to various embodiments includes six through holes with two support columns  1714 ,  1716  this disclosure is not limited to this configuration and is intended to encompass a wide variety of center support designs. The center support  1700  may include more or fewer through holes and more or fewer support columns. Further, the second support columns  1714 ,  1716  may have different positions than those shown in the drawings. The second support columns  1714 ,  1716  may have alternative positions that still allow the center support to accommodate a transport thermo pack. 
       FIG.  18    depicts an underside view of a center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support includes multiple through holes  1802 - 1812 . The through holes may be defined by one or more side walls. For example, corner through hole  1802  may include at least two sides: a first side wall  1814 , a second side wall  1816 , and/or other side walls. A first side wall  1814  may extend from the bottom surface  1818  to the top surface (not shown) of the center support  1800 . As shown, the first side wall  1814  may be configured to surround more than half of a beverage container. The second side wall  1816  extends from the bottom surface  1818  to a point short of the top surface of the center support  1800  (e.g., the second side wall does not extend the entire length between bottom surface  1818  and the top surface of the center support  1800 ). The second side wall  1816  may be shorter than the first side wall  1814 . The second side wall  1816  may include a portion of the support columns  1820 ,  1822 . The side wall(s)  1814  may define the through holes along the edges of the center support  1800  that form a continuous, undulating surface that surrounds all six of the through holes, providing support and protection for the beverage containers disposed therein. The side walls  1814  may also include deformable elements  1824 . The deformable elements  1824  may contact the beverage container and/or secure the beverage containers in place during transit. The deformable elements  1824  may also be configured to deform when a load is applied to the beverage container packaging. When the deformable elements  1824  flex, the center support  1800  absorbs the impact of any load applied and protects the beverage containers from damage. In certain cases, the deformable elements  1824  may include de-nesting lugs and may aid in de-nesting a stack of nested center supports. 
     In various embodiments, the center support  1800  includes one or more support columns  1820 ,  1822 . In the example shown, the center support  1800  includes two support columns  1820 ,  1822 . The support columns  1820 ,  1822  may include and/or correspond to the support columns  1714 ,  1716  of  FIG.  17   . In certain cases, the support columns  1820 ,  1822  may include the shape of star-shaped posts, cross-shaped contoured posts, Chinese star shaped posts, rectangular shaped posts, rhomboid shaped posts, and/or other elements. The second support columns  1820 ,  1822  include a diamond-shaped inner portion  1826  (e.g., square and/or rectangular shaped inner portion) and star point elements  1828  that extend away from the center of the support columns  1820 ,  1822 . The star-point elements  1828  may extend, for example, at ninety-degree angles (e.g., orthogonal to one another) to form the shape of a star and/or cross. In certain cases, the support columns  1820 ,  1822  include deformable elements  1830 . The deformable elements  1830  may contact the beverage container and/or secure the beverage containers in place during transit. The deformable elements  1830  may also be configured to deform when a load is applied to the beverage container packaging. In certain cases, the deformable elements  1830  of the support columns may function similar to the deformable elements  1824 . In certain cases, a center support  1800  includes recessed elements  1832  elements between the posts  1820 ,  1822 . The recessed elements  1832  between posts  1820 ,  1822  allow the posts  1820 ,  1822  to tilt relative to one another and the center support  1800  to flex during use. 
     According to some embodiments, the support columns  1820 ,  1822  may be hollow and have an inverted shape with respect to the shape of the first support columns of the bottom tray. In certain cases, the first support columns of a bottom tray may be hollow and may have a width that tapers to a flat upper surface. When the center support  1800  is in an upright orientation, as in  FIG.  17   , the second support columns  1820 ,  1822  have a width that tapers to a flat lower surface, thus having an inverted shape with respect to the shape of the first support columns of the bottom tray. The flat surfaces of the center support columns  1820 ,  1822  contact the flat upper surfaces of the bottom tray support columns. When the support columns of the bottom tray contact the support columns  1820 ,  1822  a load path is generated transfer any applied loads through the centers support  1800  and into the bottom tray, while reducing loading on and damage to the beverage containers. 
     In various embodiments, the second support columns  1820 ,  1822  may be connected to form adjoining support columns. The adjoining columns may include to adjoined towers with two distinct high points. The adjoining columns in certain cases may resemble multiple towers adjoined by a lower base portion. There may include for example a U-shaped or V-shaped recessed elements (depressions)  1832  between the two high points of the columns. This configuration may be advantageous in, for example, improving the structural strength of the packaging. 
       FIG.  19    depicts an underside view of a center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support includes multiple through holes  1902 - 1912  (e.g., six through holds in the example shown). The through holes  1902 - 1912  include a cut out defined by multiple radii. For example, a first portion of the through hole  1926  is defined by a first radius, and a second portion of the through hole  1928  is defined by a second radius. In certain cases the second radius may be larger than the first radius. The first portion of the through hole  1926  may extend around  180  degrees or more of the hole, and the second portion  1928  may extend around less than  180  degrees. The size of the first portion  1926  and second portion  1928  may vary dependent on the location of the through hole  1902 - 1912 . For example, through holes  1902 ,  1906 ,  1908 ,  1912  located on the corners of the center support  1900  may include larger first portion  1926  (e.g., a first portion of greater circumference) than the first portions in holes  1904 ,  1910  that are located on the sides of the center support  1900  (e.g., not on the corners). 
     In various embodiments, the through holes may be defined by one or more side walls. For example, corner through hole  1902  may include at least two sides walls: a first side wall  1914 , a second side wall  1916 , and/or other side walls. A first side wall  1914  may extend from the bottom surface  1918  to the top surface  1920  of the center support  1900 . As shown, the first side wall  1914  may be configured to surround more than half of a beverage container. The second side wall  1916  extends from the bottom surface  1918  to a point short of the top surface  1920  of the center support  1900  (e.g., the second side wall does not extend the entire length between bottom surface  1918  and the top surface  1920  of the center support  1900 ). The second side wall  1916  may be shorter than the first side wall  1914  (e.g., shorter in height from bottom to top). The second side wall  1916  may include a portion of the support columns  1922 ,  1924 . The second side walls  1916  may form the sides of the support columns  1922 ,  1924 . 
     According to some embodiments, the side wall(s)  1914  form a continuous, undulating surface that surrounds all six of the through holes, providing support and protection for the beverage containers disposed therein. The side walls  1914  may include one or more protrusions  1930  (e.g., deformable elements) and depressions  1932  around the circumference of the through hole  1902 . In certain instances, the protrusions  1930  and depressions  1932  form an undulating surface that around at least a portion of the circumference of the through hole  1902 . The protrusions  1930  may contact the beverage container and/or secure the beverage containers in place during transit. The protrusions  1930  may also be configured to deform when a load is applied to the beverage container packaging. When the deformable elements  1930  flex, the center support  1900  absorbs the impact of any load applied and protects the beverage containers from damage. In certain cases, the deformable elements  1930  may include de-nesting lugs and may aid in de-nesting a stack of nested center supports. 
       FIG.  20    depicts side view of a center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a beverage container center support  2000  includes a bottom surface  2002  and a top surface  2004 . The beverage container center support  2000  includes beverage container accommodating spaces  2006 ,  2008 ,  2010 . The beverage container accommodating spaces  2006 ,  2008 ,  2010  may include through holes as described herein. In certain cases a wall  2012  surrounding the beverage container accommodating spaces  2006 ,  2008 ,  2010  includes multiple protruding elements  2014  (e.g., deformable elements). The wall  2012  in certain cases may include an undulating shape. 
       FIG.  21    depicts an example shipping container according to various embodiments. As shown in  FIG.  21   , the bottom tray  2102  extends to the inner surface  2106  of the shipping container  2100 . In use, the bottom tray  2102  is placed in the shipping container  2100 . The beverage containers  2104  are placed in the bottom tray  2102 . In a subsequent step as depicted in  FIG.  21   , a center support and thermo transport packs are placed in to the shipping container  2100 . 
       FIG.  22    depicts an example shipping container according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a shipping container  2200  includes the following: a bottom tray  2202 , beverage containers  2204 , a center support  2206 , transport thermo packs  2208 ,  2210 ,  2212 , and/or other elements. The bottom tray  2202  is disposed in a shipping container  2200 , for example, a cardboard box. Beverage containers  2204  are placed in the bottom tray  2202 . In the example shown,  12  beverage containers  2204  are placed in the bottom tray  2202 . The center support  2206  is disposed in a shipping container  2200 . The center support  2206  may be placed on the bottom tray  2202  and may surround the beverage containers  2204 . The center support  2206  extends to the inner surface  2222  of the shipping container  2200 . The center support  2206  may be similar to center support  1000  of  FIG.  10   , center support  1100  of  FIG.  11   , center support  1206  of  FIG.  12   , and/or center support  1306  of  FIG.  13   . 
     The center support  2206  accommodates transport thermo packs  2208 ,  2210 ,  2212 . Transport thermo packs  2208 ,  2210 ,  2212  are placed between rows of beverage containers, such that for example the transport thermo packs  2208 ,  2210 ,  2212  contact each of the beverage containers  2204 . For example, a first transport thermo pack  2208  may be installed between a first row  2214  and second row  2216  of beverage containers, a second transport thermo pack  2210  may be installed between the second row  2216  and a third row  2218  of beverage containers, and a third transport thermo pack  2212  is installed between the third row  2218  and a fourth row  2220  of beverage containers. 
     In some embodiments, the shipping container  2200 , the bottom tray  2202 , the center support  2206 , and/or the top tray (not shown) may include a water-resistant coating. For example, a coating may be applied to the molded paper pulp such that the paper pulp maintains its shape in the presence of moisture. The transport thermo pack disposed between the bottom tray and the center support may leak, or a temperature difference between the atmospheric temperature and the temperature of the transport thermo pack may cause condensation to form. By coating the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray with a water-resistant coating, the assembly can maintain its shape and provide support and cushioning for the beverage containers. 
     The coating according to various embodiments is a water-based additive that is mixed in the paper slurry before the actual molding cycle. Less than 3% of water used in production is made of the additive. The water-based material does not outgas, deform, or add any negative effects to the parts and environment. It does, however, add slight moisture and/or water resistance. This reduces the likelihood of degradation during use with thermo packs, product transportation, and shipping through humid areas. The outer shipping container may not need any coating as the pulp inners may retain moisture with the bottom cavities, such as the first compartments of the bottom tray. The additive to the pulp allows the paper material to absorb moisture and pull moisture from wine labels. The additive to the pulp also allows the paper material to exchange moisture with the atmosphere, thereby allowing the bottom tray, the center support, and/or the top tray to expel moisture without degrading their structural integrity. 
     In some embodiments, the container  2200 , bottom tray  2202 , center support  2206 , top tray (no shown), and/or other components of the packaging may include material sufficiently thick to withstand environmental effects (e.g., condensation, humidity, etc.) associated with the thermo packs. For example, the bottom tray, center support, and/or top tray may include thick molded paper pulp to withstand the environmental effects resulting from inclusion of a thermos pack in the packaging assembly. 
     After the beverage packing assembly and the beverage containers have been disposed in the shipping container, the shipping container may be sealed by, for example, closing the flaps of the box and/or applying tape. The shipping container may be then be shipped to its recipient. And upon receipt, a recipient may perform the inverse (opposite) of these steps to unpack the beverage container packing assembly. 
     In various embodiments, these and other steps to assemble and disassemble a container packing assembly may be performed in other sequences to achieve similar results. 
       FIG.  23    depicts an example shipping container with a bottom tray and center support disposed therein according to various embodiments.  FIG.  23    shows a center support  2300  according to various embodiments. The center support  2300  is disposed in a shipping container  2302 , for example, a cardboard box. The center support  2300  includes star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  bisecting the center support  2300 . The center support  2300  also accommodate transport thermo packs  2308 ,  2310  between the outer row  2312 ,  2314  and the inner rows  2316 ,  2318  of the beverage containers. The star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  may stack on first support columns of a bottom tray, and may provide support for third support columns of a top tray. The star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  may form hollow columns that are open at the top, and closed at the bottom. The outer walls of the center support  2300  may include repeating half-star shapes  2320 . The vertices  2322  between adjacent half-star shapes  2320  may protrude to the inner surface of the shipping container  2302 , preventing the beverage containers from moving laterally during transit. 
     The center support  2300  may include similar features to center support  1000  of  FIG.  10   , center support  1100  of  FIG.  11   , center support  1206  of  FIG.  12   , and/or center support  1306  of  FIG.  13   . One potential difference in center support  2300  relative to center supports  1000 ,  1100 ,  1206 , and  1306  may include the star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  bisecting the center support  2300 . The star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  may provide additional support and rigidity in the center of the packaging. In certain cases, the star-shaped structures  2304 ,  2306  may accommodate thermo transport packs. For example, a smaller or custom shaped thermo transport pack. 
       FIG.  24    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a beverage container packing assembly  2400  may include a bottom tray  2402  (e.g., bottom element), a top tray  2404  (e.g., a top element), a center support  2406  (e.g., center support element, partition element), transport thermo packs  2408 ,  2410 , and/or other components. The beverage container packaging assembly  2400  is configured to package a plurality of beverage containers for transit. In the example shown, the beverage container packing assembly  2400  is configured to package twelve (12) beverage containers (not shown). The center support  2406  separates the bottom tray  2402  and top tray  2404 . The top tray  2404  rests on the center support  2406 . The transport thermo packs  2408 ,  2410  are installed on center support  2406 . Center support  2406  may include, for example, transport thermo pack accommodating spaces  2412 ,  2414  (e.g., center tray thermo pack accommodating spaces). The center tray thermo pack accommodating spaces  2412 ,  2414  may be sized to accommodate the transport thermo packs  2408 ,  2410 . The center tray thermo pack accommodating spaces  2412 ,  2414  are configured and positioned to allow the transport thermo packs  2408 ,  2410  to be housed in the same packing tray with the beverage containers and at least partially in contact with one or more beverage containers. The top tray  2404  includes thermo pack accommodating spaces. The top of the beverage container is encapsulated in a compartment of the top tray  2404 . The center support  2406  prevents the beverage containers from contacting during shipping and provides spacing between the bottom tray  2402  and top tray  2404 . As discussed in detail herein, the center support  2406  is also configured to accommodate one or more transport thermo packs (not shown) that contact the beverage containers and/or maintain the beverage containers within in desired temperature range during transit. 
       FIG.  25    depicts a beverage container packing assembly according to various embodiments. The beverage container packing assembly  2500  of  FIG.  25    may be similar to the beverage container packing assembly  2400  of  FIG.  24   , but viewed from a bottom side. In the example shown, a beverage container packing assembly  2500  may include a bottom tray  2502  (e.g., bottom element), a top tray  2504  (e.g., a top element), a center support  2506  (e.g., center support element, partition element), transport thermo packs  2508 ,  2510 , and/or other components. The top tray  2504  may include thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514 . For example, the top tray may include a first thermo pack accommodating space  2512  (e.g., a first top tray thermo pack accommodating space) to accommodate a first thermo pack  2508  and second thermo pack accommodating space  2514  (e.g., a first top tray thermo pack accommodating space) to accommodate a second thermo pack  2510 . The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized to accommodate thermo packs  2508 ,  2510  in the same tray with beverage containers. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized and positioned to place the thermo packs  2508 ,  2510  in contact with at least one beverage containers, multiple beverage containers, and/or all beverage containers in the beverage container packing assembly. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized to match geometry of the thermo packs  2508 ,  2510 . For example, the thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized to hold the thermo packs  2508 ,  2510  in a stationary and/or a substantially stationary position during transit of the beverage container packing assembly. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized to hold the thermo packs  2508 ,  2510  in an interference fit, fixed fit, press fit, and/or other form of temporary fastening. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  may be sized so that the thermo pack is temporarily fastened to the top tray  2504 . 
     In some embodiments, the thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  in the top tray  2504  may correspond to thermo pack accommodating spaces in the center support (e.g., thermo pack accommodating spaces  2412 ,  2414 ). The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  in the top tray may correspond in size, relative location, orientation, and/or other features with the thermo pack accommodating spaces in the center support. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2512 ,  2514  in the top tray may function in conjunction with the thermo pack accommodating spaces in the center tray  2506  to orient transport thermo packs in a desired configuration. 
       FIG.  26    depicts a bottom tray of a beverage container packaging assembly according to some embodiments. The bottom tray  2600  of  FIG.  26    may be similar to the bottom tray  200  of  FIG.  2   . As shown, the bottom tray  2600  includes a plurality of first compartments  2602 . The number of first compartments  2602  corresponds to a number of beverage containers the bottom tray  2600  is configured to accommodate. In the example shown, the bottom tray  2600  includes twelve first compartments  2602 —three rows of four first compartments  2602  or four columns of three first compartments  2602 . The bottom tray  2600  shown is configured to accommodate twelve (12) beverage containers.  FIG.  26    depicts one example configuration of first compartments. Aspects of this disclosure, however, are in no way limited to the depicted configuration or number of first compartments  2602 . In other instances, a bottom tray (and associated beverage container packaging) be configured to accommodate six beverage containers (three rows of two beverage containers), nine beverage containers (three rows of three containers), 15 containers (five rows of three containers), 16 containers (four rows of four containers), and so on. 
     In certain cases, the bottom tray  2600  includes one or more first support columns  2604  configured to support the center support (not shown). Each of the first support columns  204  (six in the example shown) may include a plurality of platforms  2606  (e.g., deformable post elements, protrusions, etc.) that form flat surfaces to contact the center support. The platforms  2606  may be arranged in sets to resemble a cross-shape or X-shape. The platforms  2606  may also be deformable and/or flexible to absorb load applied to the bottom tray  2600 , thereby reducing any load applied to the beverage containers. The platforms  2606  may be separated by a depressed portion, such as the cross-shaped or X-shaped depressed portion  2608 . 
       FIG.  27    depicts a second view of a bottom tray according to various embodiments. In the example shown, which may include an opposite side of the bottom tray from  FIG.  26   , a bottom tray  2700  includes multiple first compartments  2702 . The bottom side of the bottom tray  2700  includes pulp paper. The bottom side of the first compartments  2702  may include protrusions  2704  (e.g., four protrusions in the example shown) extending from the bottom of the first compartments  2702  up each side. The protrusions  2704  may absorb impact and reduce loads applied to the beverage containers during, for example, an impact event. 
       FIG.  28    depicts a center support with two transport thermo packs disposed in the center support according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a center support  2800  is configured to house twelve beverage containers (not shown) are arranged in four rows of three beverage containers. The center support  2800  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810 . A transport thermo pack  2808  may be installed between a first row  2820  of beverage containers (e.g., through holes) and a second row  2822  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  2808  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row  2820  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row  2822 . A transport thermo pack  2810  may be installed between the third row  2824  of beverage containers and a fourth row  2826  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  2810  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the third row  2824  and a plurality of beverage containers of the fourth row  2826 . 
     As described herein, the transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  can be heating packs or cooling packs, so that the transport packs  2808 ,  2810  can heat or cool the beverage containers. The ability to heat or cool the beverage containers enables the assembly to be used to transport temperature-sensitive beverages. The transport thermo pack may directly contact the beverage containers to facilitate the transfer of energy between the transport thermo pack and the beverage containers. The transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may directly contact at least a portion of the beverage containers to facilitate the transfer of energy between the transport thermo pack and the beverage containers. In some cases, the transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may directly contact at least a portion of each beverage container (e.g., all twelve beverage containers housed in the center support  2800 ). 
     As described in detail herein, transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may be contoured based on the packaging geometry, beverage containers, and/or other elements. Transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may be shaped to accommodate the outer contour of a beverage container. The transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may be shaped to contact a portion of the surface of the beverage containers. For example, the width, height, and/or thickness of the transport thermo pack may be designed to accommodate the shape of a beverage container. 
     In some embodiments, transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  are shaped to encapsulate at least a portion of the beverage containers. Transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may, for example, fully encapsulate a single beverage container, a set of beverage containers, or all beverage containers in a package. A package may include multiple transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  each including different shapes. The shapes of each of the one or more transport thermo packs  2808 ,  2810  may be configured to accommodate the shapes of the beverage containers in the package. 
       FIG.  29    depicts a top tray with two transport thermo packs disposed in the top tray according to various embodiments. In the example shown, the top tray  2900  includes multiple vertical posts  2902 ,  2904  that form second compartments  2906  (e.g., beverage container neck accommodating spaces). For example, the vertical posts  2902 ,  2904  may include deformable elements  2908 ,  2910  that contact the neck of a beverage container and hold it in place during shipping. The deformable elements  2908 ,  2910  may also deform to absorb lateral loads applied to a bottle during transit. In some cases, the vertical posts  2902 ,  2904  may include trapezoidal deformable elements  2912  (e.g., protrusions) on a top of the vertical post  2902 ,  2904 . The trapezoidal elements  2912  may contact portions of the center support. 
     In some embodiments, the top tray  2900  includes one or more holes  2916 . Similar to the holes discussed with respect to other components of bottle packing assembly, the holes  2916  reduce vacuum generated when the top tray is placed into a box. 
     In the example shown, a top tray  2900  is configured to house twelve beverage containers (not shown) are arranged in four rows of three beverage containers. The top tray  2900  is configured to accommodate transport thermo packs  2920 ,  2922 . A transport thermo pack  2920  may be installed between a first row  2930  of beverage container neck accommodating spaces and a second row  2932  of beverage container neck accommodating spaces. The transport thermo pack  2920  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers (e.g., necks of beverage containers) of the first row  2930  and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row  2932 . A transport thermo pack  2922  may be installed between the third row  2934  of beverage containers and a fourth row  2936  of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack  2922  extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the third row  2934  and a plurality of beverage containers of the fourth row  2936 . 
     In various embodiments, the top tray  2900  includes thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942 . In the example shown, the top tray  2900  includes a first thermo pack accommodating space  2920  (e.g., a first top tray thermo pack accommodating space) to accommodate a first thermo pack  2920  and second thermo pack accommodating space  2942  (e.g., a first top tray thermo pack accommodating space) to accommodate a second thermo pack  2922 . In certain cases, the thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be formed by removing vertical posts (as compared to, for example, the top tray  1500  of  FIG.  15   ). Removing at least one vertical post creates space in the top tray  2900  to accommodate installation of the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  in the top tray  2900 . The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may include a surface  2944  upon which the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  contact the top tray  2900 . The thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  are also surrounded by and in contact with vertical posts  2902 ,  2904  in the top tray  2900 . The vertical posts  2902 ,  2904  hold the transport thermo pack in place. In the example shown, six vertical posts contact each thermo pack  2920 ,  2922 . 
     In various embodiments, the thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized to accommodate thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  in the same tray with beverage containers. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized and positioned to place the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  in contact with at least one beverage containers, multiple beverage containers, and/or all beverage containers in the beverage container packing assembly. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized to match geometry of the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922 . For example, the thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized to hold the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  in a stationary and/or a substantially stationary position during transit of the beverage container packing assembly. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized to house the thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  in an interference fit, press fit, press fit, and/or other form of temporary fastening. The thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942  may be sized so that the thermo pack is temporarily fastened to the top tray  2900 . 
       FIG.  30    a top tray in an upright orientation according to various embodiments. In the example shown, the top tray  3000  includes the structure underlying the second compartments  3002 . The top side (on assembly) of the top tray  3000  includes pulp paper. The top side of the second compartments  3002  may include cross-shaped protrusions  3004  (e.g., four protrusions meeting at a point in the example shown). The cross-shaped protrusions  3004  may absorb impact and reduce loads applied to the beverage containers during, for example, an impact event. 
       FIG.  31    is a flowchart depicting a method of packing beverage containers according to various embodiments. In the example shown, a method  3100  of packing beverage containers. The method  3100  includes placing ( 3110 ) a plurality of beverage containers in a plurality of first compartments defined by a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly. The bottom tray may be placed in a shipping container, such as a cardboard box. The beverage containers are disposed in the bottom tray in shipping container, as depicted for example in  FIG.  21   . 
     In various embodiments, a box liner is placed in the shipping container. The box liner may include insulating material. In certain cases, the box liner may be, for example, placed in the shipping container before the bottom tray, center support, top tray, or beverage containers. The box liner may resemble and/or follow the contour of the inner surface of the shipping container. In certain cases, the box liner and shipping container may resemble a box within a box. With the box liner in place, for example along the inside of the shipping container, the bottom tray and beverage containers may then be placed in the beverage container package. In some cases, the box liner may be added to the shipping container after the bottom tray, center support, top tray, and beverage containers. The box liner may in conjunction with for example, the thermo transport packs may increase the R value of the cooling time range for the beverage container packaging. 
     The method includes placing ( 3120 ) placing a center support on the bottom tray such that the beverage containers extend through holes of the center support. The center support may rest on and/or contact the bottom tray upon installation. The center support may also contact and/or surround one or more of the beverage containers. For example, the center support may include through holes corresponding to the compartments in the bottom tray and/or corresponding to the beverage containers so that one or more of the beverage containers pass through holes in the center support.  FIGS.  12  and  13    depicts a bottom tray holding a plurality of beverage containers and center support resting on the bottom tray. 
     The method further includes placing ( 3130 ) transport thermo packs into the center support between rows and/or columns of beverage containers. For example, a transport thermo pack may be placed between a first row and a second row of the plurality of beverage containers such that the transport thermo pack extends linearly between a plurality of beverage containers of the first row and a plurality of beverage containers of the second row, and rests upon and/or is supported by the center support of the beverage container packing assembly.  FIG.  28    depicts a center support  2800  with thermo pack  2808  placed between a first row  2820  and second row  2822  of the plurality of beverage containers. A thermo pack  2810  is placed between a third row  2824  and fourth row  2826  of the plurality of beverage containers. 
     The method  3100  includes placing ( 3140 ) a top tray of the beverage container packing assembly on top of the center support such that the transport thermo packs are housed in the transport thermo pack accommodating spaces. For example,  FIG.  24    depicts a top tray  2404  placed on top of the center support  2406  support. The transport thermo packs  2408 ,  2410  are housed thermo pack accommodating spaces in the top tray  2404 . For example,  FIG.  29    depicts a top tray  2900  with thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  housed in thermo pack accommodating spaces  2940 ,  2942 . The transport thermo packs  2920 ,  2922  may be housed between vertical posts  2902 ,  2904 . 
     The method  3100  may also include, prior to placing the plurality of beverage containers in the plurality of first compartments defined by the bottom tray, placing the bottom tray in a shipping container such as a cardboard box, crate, and/or other container. The beverage containers, center support, and top tray may be subsequently placed in the shipping container. According to various embodiments, each of the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray extend to an inner surface of the shipping container. 
     Further aspects of the present disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses. 
     According to one aspect, a beverage container packing assembly includes a bottom tray, having one or more first support columns and defining a group of first compartments. Each of the first compartments are configured to receive a first portion of a beverage container therein. The beverage container packing assembly further includes a center support, defining a group of through holes and configured to receive a second portion of a beverage container therethrough. The center support includes one or more second support columns each configured to stack on one of the first support columns. The beverage container packing assembly further includes a top tray, defining a group of second compartments. Each of the second compartments are configured to receive a third portion of a beverage container therein. The center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack between a first row of the plurality of through holes and a second row of the plurality of through holes. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of the preceding clause, such that the center support is further configured to accommodate the thermo pack installed in one of a first configuration and a second configuration, the first configuration including installing the thermo pack between the first row and second row and the second configuration including installing the thermo pack between a first column of through holes and a second column of through holes. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the rows and columns include different numbers of through holes. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the center support includes a group of second support columns, and a total number of second support columns is less than a total number of the first support columns. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the second support columns include diamond-shaped elements and star point elements that extend away from the center of the second support columns. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the top tray includes a group of third support columns, and a total number of the second support columns is less than a total number of the third support columns. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that each of the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray are configured to be disposed in a shipping container. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that each of the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray extend to an inner surface of the shipping container. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray include molded paper pulp. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the bottom tray, the center support, and the top tray further include a water-resistant coating. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that at least one of the first support columns and the second support columns are hollow. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the second support columns have an inverted shape with respect to a shape of the one or more first support columns. 
     The beverage container packing assembly of any preceding clause, such that the center support defines a through hole corresponding to each of the group of first compartments. 
     According to another aspect, a beverage container packing assembly center support includes a support body defining a group of through holes that are each configured to receive a portion of a beverage container therethrough. The support body includes one or more support columns that are configured to stack on a corresponding support column of a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly. The beverage container packing assembly center support is configured to accommodate a thermo pack between a first row of a group of beverage containers and a second row of a group of beverage containers such that the thermo pack extends linearly between the group of beverage containers of the first row and the group of beverage containers of the second row. 
     The beverage container packing assembly center support of the preceding clause, being further configured to accommodate the thermo pack installed in one of a first configuration and a second configuration. The first configuration includes installing the thermo pack between the first row and second row and the second configuration includes installing the thermo pack between a first column of beverage containers and a second column of beverage containers. 
     The beverage container packing assembly center support of any preceding clause, further including a surface to accommodate installation of the thermo pack. 
     The beverage container packing assembly center support of any preceding clause, such that the support body is further configured to be disposed in a shipping container. 
     The beverage container packing assembly center support of any preceding clause, such that the support body extends to an inner surface of the shipping container. 
     The beverage container packing assembly center support of any preceding clause, such that the beverage container packing assembly center support comprises molded paper pulp. 
     According to another aspect, a method of packing beverage containers includes placing a group of beverage containers in a group of first compartments defined by a bottom tray of a beverage container packing assembly, placing a center support of the beverage container packing assembly on top of the bottom tray such that the beverage containers extend through a group of through holes defined by the center support, placing a thermo pack between a first row and a second row of the group of beverage containers such that the thermo pack extends linearly between a group of beverage containers of the first row and a group of beverage containers of the second row, such that the thermo pack is supported by the center support of the beverage container packing assembly, and placing a top tray of the beverage container packing assembly on top of the center support such that the beverage containers extend into a group of second compartments defined by the top tray. 
     While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described illustrative embodiments but should instead be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.