How to sell gold by post safely

Last updated 17 October 2026

1. Get an offer before you send anything

Choose a buyer who looks at photos and gives you an offer first. That way you know roughly what to expect, and you can compare offers before you post anything.

2. Know what you have

• Look for carat stamps such as 375 (9ct), 750 (18ct) or 916 (22ct).
• Weigh your gold on kitchen scales.
• Check the current gold price so you have a rough idea of scrap value.
• Put aside anything that might be collectable, such as coins and signed jewellery.

3. Pack it properly

• Use a small, strong box or padded bag, not a thin envelope.
• Wrap each item on its own so nothing rubs or scratches.
• Keep the outside plain. Don't write "gold", "silver" or "coins" on the parcel.
• Send by Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed and ask the Post Office for cover that matches the value.
• Keep your receipt and tracking number until we confirm the parcel has arrived.

4. Use a tracked, insured service

Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed is the usual choice for posting gold and silver in the UK. It's tracked, needs a signature and can be insured. Ask at the Post Office counter for cover that matches the value of your parcel, and keep your receipt.

Avoid ordinary first or second class post, which isn't suitable for valuables.

5. Get paid

Once your parcel arrives, the buyer checks your items and confirms the final amount. Make sure you know how and when you'll be paid before you send.

Warning signs to avoid

• Buyers who won't give any idea of an offer before you send
• Free envelopes with very low insurance limits for valuable items
• Offers that drop sharply once your items arrive, with no clear reason
• No way to get your items back if you say no