Shipping Standards
Shipping watches is a routine part of the secondary market. Every day, high-value timepieces move safely between collectors and dealers using established logistics, insurance, and documentation practices. The guidance below reflects how shipping is typically handled in professional transactions.
Terms
To ensure clarity while the watch is in transit, parties typically align on terms as part of the transaction:
Who is arranging shipment
Confirmation of insurance coverage
Delivery address and timing
Whether a signature is required
Tracking and delivery confirmation expectations
Insurance
In the watch trade, insurance is standard and expected. Professional dealers commonly ship:
Under umbrella inventory policies that include transit coverage
Through third-party logistics and insurance brokers
Using insured shipping services with declared value coverage
Best practice is straightforward. Before a watch ships, both parties should confirm that the package is insured for its full value against loss and damage. If a dealer is providing the shipping label, it is reasonable to confirm that insurance coverage is in place. If you are arranging shipment yourself, ensure your chosen method includes appropriate coverage.
Packaging
Proper packaging protects both the watch and the mechanical movement inside it. Watches are mechanical instruments. Excess movement or friction during transit can result in damage, particularly for vintage pieces where shock can cause lume loss on hands or dial.
Standard professional practice includes:
Securing the watch so it cannot move in transit
Using sufficient internal padding to absorb shock
Using a box-in-box method
Placing padding between bracelet and caseback to prevent friction
Properly sealing the outer package
These steps help ensure the watch arrives in the same condition in which it was shipped. Adequate packaging is also a requirement of most shipping insurance policies. Damage resulting from insufficient or improper packaging is the responsibility of the sender. If you have questions about packaging or shipping requirements, contact the party you are transacting with before shipment.
International
When shipping internationally:
Customs documentation should be accurate and complete
Duties and taxes should be agreed upon in advance
Insurance coverage should apply during international transit
Our role
Collected structures professional watch transactions, including KYC and purchase agreements. Shipping and insurance are handled between transacting parties according to their agreement. Collected does not arrange shipping or assume responsibility for items in transit.
When working with professional counterparties, shipping and insurance are typically handled through their preferred process. If anything is unclear, a brief confirmation before shipment helps ensure the transaction proceeds smoothly.
