2024-09-27
Written by Kimberley Hughes
When it comes to shipping jewellery internationally, there’s no room for error. It’s not just about making sure your valuable pieces arrive in one piece – you also have to deal with customs regulations, shipping costs, and tricky rules around precious metals and stones. Every country has its own set of restrictions, so knowing the rules is just as important as picking the right packaging or carrier.
In this guide, we’ve got everything you need to ship jewellery across borders without a hitch. From selecting the best carriers and protective packaging to mastering the regulations for shipping luxury items, we’ll help you avoid common pitfalls, streamline your process, and save on shipping costs.
Ready to ship your jewellery internationally without the stress? Let’s get started!
Shipping jewellery internationally can be a bit of a balancing act – between packaging, insurance, and navigating customs, costs can add up quickly. But knowing what to expect can help you stay ahead. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Different countries have their own duties and taxes on imported jewellery, and these can vary depending on the value of the items and where they’re being shipped. For example, precious metals like gold and silver often attract higher duties and have strict regulations. It’s crucial to calculate these costs ahead of time to avoid surprises for both you and your customers.
One key element in managing customs smoothly is ensuring that each item is classified correctly using the appropriate HS (Harmonized System) code. HS codes are internationally recognised and are used to classify traded products. Providing the right HS code for your jewellery helps customs authorities determine the correct duties and taxes, and reduces the risk of shipment delays or fines for incorrect classification.
Offering Delivery Dury Paid (DDP) options, where you handle the customs fees upfront, can also help avoid delays and unhappy customers when the parcel arrives.
Jewellery is high-value, so insurance is a must. Make sure to insure your items for their full value in case they’re lost or damaged in transit. Most carriers offer insurance, but double-check the limits – for instance, USPS insures up to $50,000, while FedEx can go up to $100,000 with their ‘High-value Jewelry Shipping Program’.
When it comes to packaging, it’s not just about keeping your items safe – it’s about keeping costs low too. Smaller boxes and lightweight materials like air pillows or biodegradable packing peanuts can help reduce dimensional weight charges. And don’t forget, efficient packaging is key to keeping costs down. Read more about packaging considerations below!
One of the biggest headaches with international shipping is getting the customs paperwork right. Mess this up, and your jewellery could get stuck at the border or worse – sent back. Automating your customs documentation is a game-changer.
Starshipit Tip: Tools like Starshipit make it easy by automatically assigning the correct customs documentation for certain carriers based on rules you set up, and supporting both DDP and DDU, so your packages sail through border checks smoothly. Did you know global fashion retailer MESHKI automates their DDP and DDU by using Starshipit? Find out how in this case study.
“We rely heavily on the automation side of Starshipit. We take all our shipping methods from Shopify and route these through different carrier services within Starshipit. We then use rules to define PR (parcel receipt) on each order, for DDU or DDP clearances. We use that same methodology across all our international markets”, Damien Park-Nielson, Head of Operations at MESHKI
When it comes to shipping valuable items like jewellery, choosing the right carrier is crucial. Not all shipping services are equipped to handle high-value items, and many have specific policies regarding precious metals, gemstones, and luxury goods.
Research different shipping services, noting any restrictions or banned items – some carriers may have limits on the value of jewellery they’ll accept or might even prohibit certain materials altogether. Also make sure to opt for signature upon delivery with the carrier you’re using to ship your items – this will ensure that someone is available to receive the package, instead of leaving it unattended and at risk.
Let’s explore the options available for international jewellery deliveries.
DHL is a trusted global carrier with extensive experience in shipping valuable items like jewellery. With a variety of services designed for international shipping, DHL can help you ensure your jewellery reaches the customer’s destination safely and on time.
When shipping jewellery internationally with DHL, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
By leveraging DHL’s specialised services, you can rest assured knowing that your jewellery shipments are handled with care, meet all legal requirements, and arrive on time!
USPS is a popular and cost-effective option for shipping jewellery both domestically and internationally. While it may not offer the same level of specialised services as premium carriers, it’s a great option for smaller businesses looking to ship jewellery on a tighter budget.
When shipping internationally with USPS, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Here are some key USPS shipping options:
While USPS is a more affordable choice, it’s best suited for shipping smaller, lightweight jewellery pieces rather than high-value items.
FedEx is another reliable global shipping provider, known for handling high-value shipments like jewellery with care and offering robust tracking, insurance, and a variety of shipping speeds. Here’s what you need to know when shipping jewellery with FedEx:
The key FedEx shipping options for jewellery include:
FedEx is an ideal option for retailers shipping high-value jewellery internationally, offering comprehensive coverage and flexible delivery speeds to meet the needs of customers around the world.
When it comes to packing jewellery for international shipping, protecting those delicate pieces is key. From sparkling earrings to luxury watches, you want to ensure everything arrives in perfect condition – no scratches, no tangles, no worries. Here’s how to package your jewellery like a pro:
With these steps, your jewellery will be packed securely and ready to travel across borders in style.
Starshipit tip: Starshipit’s Recommended Packaging feature uses machine learning to determine the best packaging based on pre-set options for each product type. This will ensure you always use the most cost-efficient packaging without compromising protection. It’s a simple way to save on packaging costs while keeping things secure.
Different types of jewellery come with their own specific shipping challenges, from the high value of gold to the delicate nature of luxury watches. Regardless of the type, it’s always wise to opt for signature on delivery and full tracking to ensure peace of mind for both you and your customer. This added layer of security can prevent packages from being left unattended and helps avoid any disputes over delivery. Let’s break down how to handle shipping for specific types of jewellery.
Shipping gold jewellery comes with some unique challenges due to its high value and the specific customs regulations around shipping precious metals. Countries often impose heavy duties and taxes on gold imports, making it critical to get the paperwork and packaging just right. Here are some special considerations to keep in mind when shipping gold jewellery:
Watches, especially luxury or mechanical ones, are not just high in value – they can be fragile and require precise handling. Here’s how you can ensure safe shipping for both everyday timepieces and high-end watches.
Check battery regulations – If you're shipping a smartwatch, check for any regulations around transporting lithium-ion batteries. Many countries have restrictions on the number of batteries that can be shipped or require specific packaging to prevent short-circuiting during transit.
Water-resistant packaging for watches – Since some luxury watches are water-resistant or waterproof, moisture exposure during transit can affect their warranty or condition. Consider using desiccants (silica gel packets) inside the packaging to protect against humidity or water damage, especially if you’re shipping to tropical or coastal regions.
Customs and import duties – Customs duties on watches can vary depending on the materials used (stainless steel vs. precious metals like gold). Be sure to research the exact duty rate for watches based on their material and value before shipping to different countries.
Shipping jewellery internationally doesn’t have to be a complicated process, but it does require attention to detail, from choosing the right carrier to understanding customs regulations. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to offering seamless, secure, and cost-effective shipping to your customers around the globe.
But why stop there? With Starshipit, you can simplify your shipping process even further. Discover how our app helps brands around the globe to ship fashion and accessories without a hitch.
Start your 30-day free trial to automate your shipping workflows, manage multiple carriers, and streamline your customs documentation, ensuring your jewellery reaches its destination quickly and safely. Plus, with features like real-time rate comparisons, bulk label printing and automated customs forms, you’ll be saving time and money on every shipment.
Don’t let the complexities of shipping jewellery internationally hold you back. To learn how to navigate important cross-border requirements, while ensuring your valuable items are delivered safely, download our guide to international shipping today!
Download your copyAutomate your entire shipping process while delivering better experiences for your customers.
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