Proper Way to Label Your Mailer

Guidance on Safely Mailing Gold, Silver, and Other Precious Metals

When sending unwanted gold, silver, jewelry, or coins through the mail, one of the most overlooked—but critical—steps is properly labeling and packaging your mailer. This ensures your items reach the buyer securely, remain fully insured during transit, and can be tracked with confidence. Below is a step-by-step guide to labeling your mailer, adding return and sender details, monitoring updates, and protecting yourself with proper documentation.

Step 1: Write Clear Sender and Return Details

Always write both the destination address and your return address clearly. Use block letters and avoid cursive handwriting, which can be harder to scan and read.

• Sender (return) address: Use your full legal name and correct street address. This enables the package to be returned if undeliverable.

• Recipient: Use the mailing instructions provided by the trusted gold and silver buyer, exactly as written. For example, International Gold & Silver may provide a specific processing department line that ensures proper routing.

• Avoid content description: Do not write words like "gold," "silver," "coins," or "jewelry" on the outside of the package. This protects against theft and complies with common carrier security guidelines.

Step 2: Use a Secure Mailer Kit

Many precious metal buyers provide tracked and insured mailer kits. These kits often include tamper-evident envelopes or boxes, insurance coverage for the declared items, and prepaid shipping labels. If you are sending valuables on your own, carefully package them using double layers:

• Place items in small, sealed bags (to keep tiny pieces together).

• Cushion with bubble wrap or tissue paper.

• Use a nondescript outer mailer with strong tape.

Step 3: Understand Insurance and Tracking

All shipments of precious metals should be insured and tracked. USPS insurance and Registered Mail are common choices. Registered Mail provides the highest level of security and documented chain of custody within USPS. Private carriers like FedEx and UPS also allow declared value shipping with tracking, but check policies since restrictions may apply for metals.

Step 4: Monitoring Updates in One System

For extra security, consolidate all package tracking numbers into one monitoring system. This allows you to check progress easily without forgetting individual shipments. For record-keeping, some people use spreadsheets or inventory tools like GavelBase to log package details, insured amounts, and tracking histories. This centralized record helps if you need to reference proof of shipment or file an insurance claim.

Step 5: Documentation for Added Protection

• Photograph items before sealing the package. This provides a visual record for your own insurance claim if ever needed.

• Write an inventory list—include karat rating, weight in grams, and item descriptions (such as “14K broken necklace, 12 grams”).

• Note the tracking number and shipping method.

Quick Checklist Before Mailing Precious Metals

• ✔ Clear sender and recipient addresses written in block letters

• ✔ No mention of precious item contents on the outside

• ✔ Items individually bagged and cushioned

• ✔ Tamper-evident or sturdy outer mailer sealed with tape

• ✔ Package insured and tracking number recorded

• ✔ Photos and list of contents saved for your records

• ✔ Tracking numbers monitored in one reliable system

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just drop gold jewelry in a regular envelope?

No. Standard paper envelopes can tear and are unsafe for heavy or sharp jewelry. Always use padded mailers or boxes.

Should I declare the contents as “gold” on the form?

When mailing, do not write "gold" or "silver" on the box. Use the recipient name and provided instructions. Insurance forms may require a declared value, but you can usually describe contents generally as “personal property” or "collectibles." Confirm with the shipper for compliance.

What if the package is delayed?

Delays occasionally happen. Monitor using your tracking number, and save your receipt in case of a claim. USPS Registered Mail and insured shipments require signatures at each stage, so they are not easily misplaced.

Conclusion

Correctly labeling your mailer, documenting contents, and consolidating tracking updates greatly reduce risks when shipping precious metals. By following the outlined steps—especially using insured services, recording tracking numbers, and avoiding content descriptions on labels—you will protect both your items and your peace of mind as you send jewelry, coins, silver, or dental gold through the mail.