International movement of gold bullion and polished diamonds begins long before cargo reaches an airport. Accurate documentation, genuine ownership records and agreement with the carrier are more important than a promised route or delivery date.
1. Describe every item accurately
Create a manifest that distinguishes gold bars from polished stones. For bullion, include the number of bars, individual and total weights, fineness and serial or identifying marks where applicable. For diamonds, record the number of stones, individual carat weights, characteristics and identification or grading reports where available.
2. Establish ownership and provenance
Collect purchase invoices, ownership documents, historical records or lawful transfer paperwork. The consignor, declarant and consignee should understand who legally owns the cargo at each stage. Do not label a commercial shipment as a gift merely to simplify a declaration.
3. Support the declared value
A declared value is not simply a target number. It should be supported by appropriate invoices, market records or independent professional appraisals. Explain how the combined amount was calculated and ensure the values can be reconciled against the manifest.
4. Confirm export and import requirements
Rules vary by the countries involved and by commodity. Exporting from the European Union typically entails customs export formalities. The European Commission explains the EU export procedure and the role of declarations. Destination-country requirements may include customs entry, supporting records, permits or broker filings.
5. Check that the carrier accepts the goods
Not every parcel or air-freight operator carries precious metals and gemstones. Obtain written acceptance for the precise commodity, quantity, declared value and requested security arrangements. Confirm packaging, custody, handover conditions and any prohibited items.
6. Review actual insurance terms
Ask for written evidence of cover identifying the insured goods, value, route, period, deductibles and exclusions. Ordinary shipping protection may not extend to bullion or loose gemstones. Avoid assuming the words “secure shipping” mean the cargo is insured.
7. Define tracking and delivery evidence
Record the actual booking reference, dispatch evidence, custody handovers and delivery acknowledgment. A tracking status is information in a system; where a material event matters, seek the carrier’s corresponding document or direct confirmation.
Final review before release
- Manifest and item identification completed
- Ownership and valuation supported
- Export/import process reviewed
- Carrier has accepted the cargo in writing
- Insurance and security terms reviewed
- Recipient and release procedure verified
Editorial note: This article is general shipping information, not legal, customs, tax or insurance advice. Requirements can change and depend on the specific goods, route, parties and carrier. Obtain written confirmation from the appropriate authorities and service providers.
Planning a consignment? Review our gold and diamond service guide or send a general enquiry. A website enquiry does not confirm booking, insurance or dispatch.