Some people collect precious metals with the intention of keeping them. However, other individuals prefer to buy and sell certain pieces, while others might wish to swap with other collectors or simply treat a friend or family member to a very nice surprise. Regardless of why you have plans to ship gold, silver, or another precious metal, here are some things to keep in mind to do this safely, brought to you by the pros from First National Bullion. Carlsbad collectors rely on our expertise and extensive knowledge about every aspect of buying, selling, and owning precious metals.

Know the Weight of Your Item(s)

It’s not unusual for most commonly used shipping companies to require insurance for packages. Also, with insurance, what you’ll pay is often based on weight. Knowing the weight of the precious metals you’ll be shipping will also help you with the tip mentioned next.

Select an Appropriate Shipping Box

Some shipping companies require the use of double-walled boxes for shipments of precious metals. If you ship via the U.S. Post Office, one of their flat boxes should be sufficient. Choose the box that’s correct for what you’ll be shipping based on weight, size, and shape. Do the same thing with any shipping box you’ll be using.

Properly Secure Your Precious Metals

Securing your precious metals serves two main purposes: (1) protecting the items you’ll be shipping and (2) making it harder to guess what’s being shipped. Properly secure your precious metals by:

• Using paper or filament tape
• Securing all outside box seams
• Reinforcing the box if your precious metals are on the heavy side

Also, make sure the box doesn’t rattle or shake when you’re done packing and securing it. Used newspaper works well for this purpose if you need some extra padding to keep your items firmly in place.

Don’t Advertise What’s Being Shipped

It’s fine to write “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” on the box if you want to decrease the risk of your precious metals being excessively jostled around. However, what you don’t want to do is write “gold coins” or anything else that identifies what’s inside.

Buy Insurance

At the very least, insure the precious metals you’ll be shipping for their full value. If you’re not sure of the actual value, err on the side of caution and have an appraisal done prior to shipping. If your preferred carrier doesn’t offer insurance high enough to cover the full value, you can always purchase shipping insurance through a third party.

Choose a Trusted Carrier

Take time to select a trusted carrier. This list typically includes well-known shippers like the USPS, UPS, and FedEx. If you prefer another shipper, make sure they’re established enough to trust.

Get a Tracking Number

Don’t choose any carrier that can’t provide a tracking number. This number allows you to track your precious metals shipment as it makes its way to your recipient.

Require the Recipient to Sign

This may be inconvenient for some people, but it can provide added peace of mind for you and the recipient. Also, get an estimated arrival date so you’ll know when to expect your recipient to receive the package. 

For more information on any aspect of owning precious metals, call on the experts at First National Bullion and Coin. We can answer all your questions about how to care for and invest in precious metals. Whether they’re looking to buy platinum bullion, gold coins, or silver bars, Carlsbad residents can trust our reputable dealers. Give one of our experienced dealers a call today at (760) 253-8072.

The statements made in this blog are opinions, and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Precious metals, like all investments, carry risk. Precious metals and coins may appreciate, depreciate, or stay the same in cash value depending on a variety of factors. First National Bullion does not guarantee, and its website and employees make no representation, that any metals for sale will appreciate sufficiently to earn the customers a profit. The decision to buy, sell, or borrow precious metals and which precious metals to purchase, borrow, or sell are made at the customer’s sole discretion.