Shipping jewelry, fine art, luxury watches, rare collectibles, and high-end electronics isn’t the same as sending an ordinary package. Moving high-value goods like these presents financial risks that standard shipping policies and carrier coverage don’t always address. Yet the myths of securely sending expensive, high-dollar items persist.

Here, we separate fact from fiction and explain why specialized shipping insurance is the safest way to protect your goods and your bottom line.

Myth 1: Standard Carrier Insurance Fully Covers My Shipment

Fact: Standard carrier liability rarely covers the full value of high-end shipments.

Most major carriers, including FedEx, UPS, and USPS, set strict limits on liability. For example, UPS caps liability for most packages at $100 by default unless you declare a higher value (and even then, it is not the same as insurance).. FedEx has similar limitations.

If you’re shipping a $50,000 engagement ring, relying solely on carrier liability means you’re taking on significant financial exposure.

Myth 2: Declared Value and Insurance are the Same Thing

Fact: Declared value is not true insurance.

When you declare a value with a carrier, you’re only raising the maximum liability limit that they may consider paying, and usually under very specific circumstances. Declared value does not guarantee reimbursement for common issues like theft, mysterious disappearance, or loss during customs inspections.

By contrast, specialized shipping insurance provides broad protection for high-value items, including scenarios that carriers routinely exclude. For example, USPS outlines that insurance and declared value are distinct protections.

Myth 3: High-Value Items Rarely Lost or Stolen

Fact: High-value goods are among the top targets for theft.

According to the National Crime Insurance Bureau, cargo theft losses could hit $35 billion this year. Most theft occurs in California, with thieves most often targeting electronics. Jewelry is also vulnerable because it is portable and has high resale potential.

In addition to cargo theft, porch piracy is a threat to high-value shipments. Packages with visible luxury branding are a tempting target for thieves.

Myth 4: All Shipping Insurance Policies are the Same

Fact: Specialized insurance policies differ significantly from standard ones.

General business insurance policies often exclude fine art, jewelry, and collectibles during transit. Even if they do cover them, limits are typically low compared to the actual shipment value.

Specialized high-value goods insurance, however, provides:

• Higher coverage limits tailored to the shipment’s value.

• Expanded coverage for theft, mysterious disappearance, or international risks.

• Claims processes designed for time-sensitive, high-value industries.

Shipping precious goods with only standard business insurance is a risk you can’t afford to take.

Myth 5: I Pack My Shipment Well, So I Don’t Need Extra Coverage

Fact: Packaging reduces risk, but it doesn’t remove exposure.

Even with reinforced boxes, tamper-proof seals, and discreet labeling, shipments remain vulnerable to outside risks. Fires at distribution centers, theft in transit, natural disasters, and international customs delays can still cause losses.

Specialized shipping insurance ensures that, no matter how well you package, you’ll be compensated for covered losses.

Myth 6: International Shipments Follow the Same Rules as Domestic

Fact: International shipping carries higher risks and more complex rules.

Cross-border shipments pass through more hands between the origin and the destination. Along the way, packages are subject to customs seizures, theft in transit hubs, and local regulations that limit recourse with carriers.

The International Trade Administration highlights the complexities of exporting and shipping globally, and is a good resource for retailers that ship globally. Specialized shipping insurance covers goods worldwide, often with dedicated claims teams experienced in handling international disputes.

Final Thoughts: Why Specialized Shipping Insurance Matters

The myths around shipping high-value goods create a false sense of security. If you ship jewelry, art, luxury goods, and electronics, and rely solely on carrier liability or standard policies, you are leaving yourself and your customers vulnerable.

That’s why specialized shipping insurance is essential. It ensures your goods are covered at full value, provides protection against theft and loss worldwide, and safeguards your financial stability. Just as importantly, it builds customer trust and loyalty.

Now is the time to review your shipping strategy and close the gaps in protection. With specialized shipping insurance, you’re not just moving goods; you’re protecting your business and reputation.

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