How to Ship High-Value Items Internationally

Posted by Boundr | 22 May 2025

Shipping high-value items internationally can feel intimidating—whether you're sending a designer handbag, limited-edition sneakers, or a rare collectible. When there's real money on the line, you want to be absolutely sure your item arrives safely and without hassle. At Boundr, we specialize in helping customers forward packages worldwide, and we understand what’s at stake when the items you ship are worth hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to confidently ship high-value items to our Boundr facility and then on to their final destination.

What Qualifies as a High-Value Item?

“High-value” means different things to different people, but for shipping purposes, it generally includes items like:

Electronics (phones, tablets, headphones)
Designer fashion and accessories
Collectibles (sports cards and figures)
Luxury watches or jewelry
Rare books or limited editions
Cameras and tech equipment

⚠️ Note: Boundr shipments have a maximum declared value limit of $2,499.99.

Step 1: Know Before You Ship

Before you even package your item, do some homework:

✅ Check Restrictions:

Some countries may restrict or prohibit certain high-value items like jewelry, or electronics.
Use Boundr’s keyword-based system to help flag items during your shipment setup, but always verify restrictions with the destination country's customs authority.

✅ Take Inventory:

Photograph the item from all angles.
Keep purchase receipts or invoices.
Write down serial numbers or identifying marks for tech or collectibles.

This documentation will be vital if you need to prove value or file a claim.

Step 2: Pack It Like a Pro

When you’re shipping something expensive, presentation doesn’t matter—protection does.

📦 Choose the Right Box:

Use a strong, double-walled cardboard box.

For extremely valuable or fragile items, consider double-boxing: place a smaller box inside a larger one with cushioning between them.

🛡️ Wrap Securely:

Wrap the item in anti-static bubble wrap (especially for electronics).

Use foam inserts or packing peanuts to immobilize the item in the box.

Add at least 2 inches of padding on all sides.

🔒 Seal It Tight:

Use high-quality packing tape and seal all seams.

Consider tamper-evident tape or shipping in plain, unbranded boxes to avoid theft.

🔖 Label Clearly:

Mark the box as "Fragile" if needed, but avoid using labels like "Expensive" or "High-Value" to reduce the chance of theft.

Step 3: Understand Insurance & Protection Options

Boundr offers Boundr Protect, a protection program that covers lost packages during shipment, up to a maximum value of $500 per package.

Here's what you need to know:

📦 Boundr Protect is optional, but highly recommended if your item’s value is within the $500 limit.
💸 If your item exceeds $500, Boundr Protect will only cover up to $500. There is no option to purchase additional insurance through Boundr or the shipping carrier.
⚠️ It’s your responsibility to understand the risks of shipping items valued above the coverage limit.

Tips for High-Value Shipments:

Break large shipments into smaller packages if possible, keeping each under the $500 threshold.
Always pack high-value items with extreme care (see Step 2).
Retain proof of value (receipts, invoices) in case you need to file a claim under Boundr Protect.

Step 4: Details for Customs

Providing accurate information about your item is crucial when shipping internationally with Boundr.

Required Info:

Reason for shipment: Gift, donation, sale.
Item description: Be honest and specific (“Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Headphones” is better than “electronics”).
Declared value: This is used for customs duties and insurance purposes.
Item Condition: New, Used, etc.
Country of Manufacture: USA, Mexico, Canada, etc.

Boundr generates the export documentation from the product data you enter, so make sure it’s accurate when setting up your shipment.

Step 5: Security at Boundr

Once your high-value item arrives at our facility:

We inspect the package and confirm the contents.
We prepare the export documentation for international shipping.
We send it to its destination via your chosen carrier.

Our Boundr facility are monitored 24/7 and designed to ensure secure handling of all incoming and outgoing shipments. We treat your items like our own.

Extra Tips for High-Value Shipping

🛑 Avoid shipping multiple high-value items together

If one box is lost or delayed, you could lose everything. Ship separately if possible.

🌍 Know your destination

Some countries have high theft rates or stricter import laws. Always check customs guidelines in advance.

Final Thoughts

Shipping high-value items doesn’t have to be risky. With careful packing, the right insurance, and smart planning, you can get peace of mind that your valuable goods are protected every step of the way.

Boundr makes it easier by offering reliable package forwarding, shipment protection up to $500, and secure handling at our facility. For anything beyond that, our support team is here to guide you through options to keep your items safe.