Whether you have been in the industry for decades or just landed your first big sale, the risk of sending a high-value jewelry piece through the mail can cause a lot of stress. Recent data shows that package theft is a significant issue, with more than 100 million packages stolen throughout the U.S. in 2025. Read on for some tips on how to prevent package theft and get answers to important questions like whether shipping insurance covers theft and if there is ever such a thing as too much packaging tape (spoiler alert: the answer is no!).
Do not use envelopes; only boxes for shipping
Sometimes it might be tempting to quickly slide a delicate gold chain or a pair of stud earrings into a padded envelope and hurry it out the door. However, you should avoid doing so at all costs. Envelopes are far easier to compromise than rigid boxes. A thief can feel the contents through the paper envelope or simply tear it open in seconds. A small envelope is also much easier to misplace or "accidentally" slip into a pocket during the package sorting process. Using a sturdy box provides a physical barrier, making your shipment a less convenient target.
Do not mention jewelry on shipping boxes
Putting the word “jewelry” on a box being sent to a customer is just asking for a spotlight on your package. When a box contains little to no information regarding what is inside, it is far less attractive to a thief than one that essentially shouts about its valuable contents to the world. You should even consider altering your return address. If your business name is “Gems and Gold Studio,” consider shortening it to GGS on the shipping label. This simple change keeps the package's contents a secret from anyone who handles it along the route, helping to reduce the risk of targeted shipping theft.
Double-box all jewelry packages
If you are new to shipping high-value jewelry, you might wonder why you would ever need two boxes for one item. The strategy here is to provide added protection and weight. You place your jewelry in a small inner box and then place that box into a slightly larger shipping carton. This helps ensure that even if the outer box is partially crushed or punctured, the jewelry remains hidden and secure. This also helps prevent the jewelry from rattling around, which can signal to a thief that something small and potentially valuable is inside.
Use plenty of packaging tape
Using a single strip of tape to close your package is rarely enough to deter someone looking for a quick score. You should use high-quality, pressure-sensitive packaging tape to seal every single seam of the box, a sealing process often referred to as the “H-tape” method. By taping down all edges, you make it nearly impossible for someone to fish into the corner of the box or slide a finger under a flap to see what is inside. A well-taped box is a sign of a professional shipper, and it often serves as enough of a hassle to deter a thief.
Use ample packing material
It might seem like packing peanuts and bubble wrap are only for preventing breakage, but they also play a role in security. When you use enough material to keep the inner box completely stationary, you eliminate the sound of the jewelry moving. A package that makes no noise and feels solid is much harder to identify as jewelry. By filling the empty space, the box becomes more resistant to crushing during sorting and transit. Learning how to save time shipping jewelry through efficient packing habits can help protect your bottom line in more ways than one.
Ship jewelry quickly
The longer a package sits in the shipping stream, the more potential opportunities there are for something to go wrong. You should aim to use overnight or express shipping services whenever possible to minimize the time the jewelry spends in transit. It is also wise to avoid shipping on Fridays or before holidays, as this prevents your high-value package from sitting in a sorting facility over the weekend. The goal is to get the jewelry from your hands to your customer’s hands with as few rest stops as possible.
Ensure couriers scan all jewelry packages
Never just drop-and-go at a shipping center. You should wait in line to ensure the courier scans your package and provides you with a physical receipt. This creates an immediate digital trail that confirms the carrier has taken possession of the item. This step is important for tracking and accountability. If a package goes missing between the counter and the truck, you have the proof you need for an insurance claim. An extra five minutes of your day can save you time and money in the event of package theft.
Beware of package information request scams
As a jewelry store owner, you must stay vigilant against the tricks criminals use to undermine jewelry store security, including digital scams. You might receive a text or email that appears to be from a courier service, asking you to confirm the contents or pay a redelivery fee for a package. These are often phishing attempts to find out which of your outgoing boxes are worth stealing. Always verify the status of your shipments on the carrier’s official website rather than clicking suspicious links in your inbox.
Does shipping insurance cover theft?
This is a common concern for any jeweler sending high-value items through the mail. The short answer is: it depends on your provider. However, you should keep in mind that most insurance providers will only honor a claim if you have followed specific security protocols. This typically includes the double-boxing and discreet labeling techniques mentioned above. By thoroughly documenting your process and choosing a policy tailored to your jewelry business, you can help ensure that your business is protected if shipping theft occurs.
Protect your jewelry business with Jewelers Mutual Group
Even with the best packaging habits, risk still exists. With how common package theft is today, utilizing a shipping management tool is a necessity. Jewelers Mutual Group provides jewelry business insurance tailored to your store's specific needs, including coverage for shipments. Visit Jewelers Mutual Group’s website today to learn more about the JM® Shipping Solution and other ways to help protect your business.
