Protecting Your Luxury Watch Shipment: Professional Packing & Documentation Guide

A ShipSimple Resource for Private Sellers

To ensure your high-value shipment is fully protected under ShipSimple’s All-Risk Insurance policy, we have put together a comprehensive guide to arm you with everything you need to know about packaging your valuable time piece and the documentation required.

Part 1: Mandatory Documentation (Proof of Value & Condition)

Before you seal your package, you must establish a "paper trail" to verify the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of the timepiece.

• Proof of Sale: A copy of the platform invoice (Chrono24, eBay) or a signed Bill of Sale.
• Identification: High-resolution photos of the watch’s serial number and reference number.
• Pre-Transit Condition: 3-4 photos showing the watch’s current state (dial, case, bracelet).
• Packing Video: We strongly recommend a continuous, time-stamped video of the watch being placed into the inner box and then the outer shipping container.

Part 2: The "Box-in-Box" Packing Protocol

Luxury watches must be "double-boxed" to provide maximum shock absorption and security.

Step 1: The Inner Sanctum

• Place the watch in its original manufacturer box or a rigid travel case.
• Ensure the watch is secured around its cushion so it does not rattle.
• Pro Tip: Place a copy of your shipping label inside this inner box as a fail-safe.

Step 2: The Cushioning Layer

• Select an outer shipping box that allows for at least 2 inches of space on all sides of the inner box.
• Use high-density foam, air pillows, or crumpled kraft paper. Do not use packing peanuts, as they settle during transit and leave the inner box vulnerable to the box walls.

Step 3: The Outer Fortress

• Use a new, double-walled corrugated box. Reusing old boxes compromises structural integrity.
• Discreet Labeling: Ensure the outer box is entirely neutral. Never include "Rolex," "Jewelry," or "Luxury" on the address label.
• Security Sealing: Use reinforced, water-activated or tamper-evident tape on all seams (the "H-Tape" method).
   

 

Part 3: Shipping & Hand-Off

• Express Service Level: Select an Express service level for your shipment, to minimize your risk by having it delivered as fast as possible.
• Signature Required: You must select Adult Signature Restricted Delivery with your courier for this shipment
• Insurance Certificate: Ensure you have generated your ShipSimple insurance certificate before the carrier scans the package.
• Direct Hand-Off: Do not use drop-boxes. Hand the package directly to an agent at with a courier such as FedEx, UPS, or Canada Post and obtain a confirmation.
   

 

Part 4: In the Event of a Loss

If your package is lost or damaged, ShipSimple is your advocate.

1. Report Immediately: Notify ShipSimple through your dashboard within 24 hours of the expected delivery date.
2. Upload Evidence: Attach your product and packing photos, and sales invoice to the claim portal.
3. Sit Back: Our dedicated claims team will take it from here, managing the entire reconciliation with CNA Canada to ensure you receive your payout as quickly as possible.