Shipping expensive products such as gold jewellery, gold chains, necklaces, luxury watches and gems internationally requires special care and attention to ensure their safe delivery. In this comprehensive guide, DHL Express will explore the challenges faced when businesses export luxury watches and jewellery, along with valuable tips to successfully ship these fashion goods from Sri Lanka.
Challenges faced when exporting luxury watches and jewellery
Shipping luxury watches and jewellery internationally demands utmost caution to maintain their pristine condition throughout the entire delivery process, from the warehouse to their final destination. Additionally, due to the high value of these items, businesses must consider insurance and customs clearance costs when shipping across borders. Each country has its own regulations for imported watches and jewellery, necessitating specific documentation regarding origin, quality checks, and sometimes valuation certificates. These factors can significantly impact the overall shipping cost. It's important to note that some logistics companies, including DHL Express, impose restrictions on the import of luxury watches. As an exporter, you will need to provide documentation proving that you are an authorised importer and specify your shipping terms to ensure a smooth process. Find out more about the export documents you need before exporting out of Sri Lanka.
Tips to ship jewellery and luxury watches successfully
1. Ensure you use proper packaging
Proper packaging is essential when shipping luxury watches and jewellery. Each item should be carefully wrapped in a protective material, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, before placing them in separate containers for shipment. This extra layer of cushioning will safeguard the items against any potential damage such as preventing scratches during transit.
2. Insure your high-value items
Obtaining adequate insurance coverage for your luxury watches and jewellery is crucial. By insuring these high-value items, you eliminate the risk of financial loss and liability in the event of damage or loss during shipping. Insurance costs are typically calculated based on a percentage of the declared value, providing coverage for the actual value of your shipment.
3. Prepare your export documents
Understanding customs clearance requirements for the countries you're shipping luxury watches and jewellery to is essential. Each destination country has its own customs regulations, and it's crucial to ensure that all relevant documents, such as certificates of origin, quality checks, and valuations, are accurately completed before shipping.
In Sri Lanka, before you can ship any goods, it is compulsory for exporters to register your goods with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). Next, depending on the products you are shipping, you will have to obtain certain permits and certifications. For example, if you are sending items to the USA from Sri Lanka, they have specific requirements for different products, so make sure you follow these requirements to clear customs smoothly. This attention to detail reduces the risk of delays and complications during transit. If you require assistance, our customs support services are available to guide you through the process.
4. Be aware of taxes and duties
Being aware of taxes and duties is crucial when shipping luxury watches and jewellery to different countries. The amount of import tax and duties varies depending on the country of import. For instance, if you are shipping to the USA, it’s important to note that e-commerce purchases exceeding the US import tax threshold may incur a flat rate of 3%.
In addition to duty tax, other taxes and fees, such as the Federal Excise Tax, user fees, Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), and Harbour Maintenance Fee (HMF), may be imposed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Being well-informed about these taxes and duties ensures a smooth and compliant shipping process for luxury watches and jewellery.
5. Monitor your shipments
Tracking your shipments is vital when sending luxury watches and jewellery internationally. It allows you to keep a close eye on your items throughout their journey, enabling prompt action in case of unexpected delays or damages. Tracking also provides you with the opportunity to share delivery information with customers overseas, building trust and loyalty to your brand. Take advantage of DHL Express’ track and trace function under MyDHL+ for real-time visibility. To learn more, check out our guide to using MyDHL+.
