Proper packaging is essential to ensure that items reach buyers in excellent condition, and it's the first thing we look at when a package arrives damaged or an insurance claim is filed. Follow these guidelines to safeguard your shipments, protect your payouts, and build trust within the PeerMetals community.

1. Packaging Materials

• Primary Packaging:

  • Use a protective case, pouch, sleeve, or wrapping for coins, bars, and other precious metals.

  • For graded items, ensure slabs are wrapped securely to prevent scratching.

• Padding:

  • Use bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper to cushion items.

  • Avoid materials that can scratch or damage the surface, such as newspaper ink.

• Outer Packaging:

  • Choose sturdy, tamper-proof boxes or padded mailers.

  • Avoid thin or easily torn envelopes.

2. Sealing the Package

• Tape:

  • Use heavy-duty packing tape to seal the outer box securely.

  • Reinforce edges and seams to prevent accidental openings.

• Tamper-Evident Measures:

  • Add tamper-evident seals or use packaging that reveals signs of tampering.

3. Labeling

• Shipping Label:

  • Always ship with the label generated through PeerMetals. It includes tracking, and it's the only way Shipping Insurance can be attached to your package.

  • Ensure the label is clear and includes the correct address information.

  • Avoid labeling the package with terms like "gold", "silver", or "coins" for security purposes.

  • Keep your name discreet: You can choose the sender name printed on your shipping labels, for example your initials or a business name instead of your full name, under Seller Settings → Shipping Address → Custom Shipping Name.

4. Special Considerations for High-Value Items

• Double Box Method:

  • Place the item in a small box, then put the small box into a larger box with additional padding. This is required for insured packages (see Section 5).

• Discreet Packaging:

  • Use plain, unmarked boxes to avoid drawing attention to the shipment's contents.

• Record A Video Of Your Packing Process:

  • Record a video of you packaging your item(s), clearly showing the item(s) in the package, the label of the package, the type of packaging, and you sealing the package securely. It's your best evidence if a buyer reports a problem.

5. Shipping Insurance

PeerMetals partners with Cabrella to offer Shipping Insurance for packages that are lost in transit, damaged in transit, or stolen after being marked "Delivered."

• Cost: 1.45% of the item value, with a $2.90 minimum.

• Maximum coverage: $1,500 for USPS Ground Advantage and $3,000 for USPS Priority Mail.

• Who adds it: Buyers can add insurance at checkout. Sellers can also add it to an order before it ships; the cost is deducted from your payout.

• PeerMetals labels only: Insurance can't be attached to labels purchased outside PeerMetals.

Insured package requirements. All insured packages must meet these requirements:

• Double box the item, and attach a copy of the shipping label to the inner box.

• Drop off on a weekday (Monday–Friday).

• Signature Confirmation on insured orders of $1,000 or more, and Adult Signature Confirmation on insured orders of $2,500 or more. PeerMetals adds these to your label automatically.

If an insured package is lost, stolen, or damaged: the buyer is refunded (minus the processing fee) as soon as PeerMetals confirms the problem, and PeerMetals files the claim with Cabrella. You're paid for the order once the claim is approved. If the claim is denied, for any reason, you are responsible for the loss, so following the requirements above protects you. See Lost, Stolen & Damaged Packages for the full policy.

6. Final Checklist Before Shipping

• Ensure all items are securely wrapped and immobilized within the package.

• Verify that the shipping label is attached properly and legible.

• Double-check the buyer's address for accuracy.

• If the order is insured: double boxed, label copy on the inner box, and dropping off on a weekday.

• Confirm that the package meets the shipping carrier's requirements.

By following these packaging guidelines, sellers can minimize the risk of damage or loss, ensuring a positive experience for buyers on PeerMetals.
Have questions about how shipping works? Contact our support!