Are you about to send a piece of family jewelry, a work of art, an expensive electronic product or any other precious object? The anxiety is palpable. What if the package gets lost? What if it's stolen? What if it arrives damaged?
Forget this anxiety.
Insuring a high-value parcel is not an option, it's a necessity. But navigating between basic insurance, "Ad Valorem" options and specialist insurers can seem complex.
This guide is your shield. We'll show you, step by step, how to financially protect your shipment and ship your most precious goods with absolute peace of mind.
The Basic Insurance Trap: Why it's NOT enough
All carriers (La Poste, Chronopost, etc.) include insurance by default. Beware: this is a decoy for valuables.
This compensation is flat-rate and based on the weight of the parcel, not its actual value.
Example: Colissimo's basic compensation is €23 per kilogram.
- Sending a 300g luxury watch worth €4,000? In the event of loss, you would only receive €6.90.
- Sending a 200g state-of-the-art smartphone worth €1,200? Compensation would be €4.60.
Conclusion: Relying on basic insurance means taking the risk of losing almost all the value of your property.
The Real Solutions: Which insurance should you choose for your valuable parcel?
To be compensated for the true value of your object, you need to take out additional insurance. Here are the two main options available to you.
Option 1: Ad Valorem insurance for carriers
"Ad Valorem" means "according to value". This is an option offered directly by the carriers, enabling you to declare the actual value of your shipment and be compensated on that basis in the event of a claim.
- La Poste / Colissimo: Offers Recommendation levels (R1, R2) up to €458 for small items, and Ad Valorem insurance with Colissimo up to €1,000.
- Chronopost: Ad Valorem insurance can cover your goods up to €5,000.
- International Declared Value (La Poste): For shipments outside France, this option secures your parcels up to €5,000.
Who's it for? Ideal for items of moderate value (up to €5,000) whose shipment is handled by a traditional carrier. It's an integrated and practical solution - but always check the exclusions, and don't hesitate to have a look at our summary of parcel insurance offers 2025.
Option 2: Specialized Insurance (Claisy, etc.)
For objects of very high value (works of art, exceptional jewelry, luxury equipment), carrier limits are insufficient. You need to turn to specialized third-party insurers.
These companies offer a much higher level of protection and dedicated expertise.
- Very high ceilings: Coverage can reach €50,000, €100,000 or even more, depending on your needs.
- Simplified management: In the event of a claim, you deal directly with an insurance adjuster, rather than with the carrier's customer service department, which is often quicker and more efficient.
- Clear conditions: They specialize in this type of risk, and their conditions are specifically tailored to valuable assets.
Who's it for? Essential for objects over €5,000, professionals (art galleries, jewelers) and anyone requiring the highest possible level of security.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Insuring Your Precious Parcel
Follow these 4 crucial steps for seamless protection.
Step 1: Assess and prove the value of your property
The insurance company won't take your word for it. Even before packing, gather evidence of your item's value.
- Original purchase invoice.
- Certificate of authenticity.
- Recent appraisal by an auctioneer or recognized professional.
Take detailed photos of the item from all angles before packing. They will be vital in the event of a damage claim.
Step 2: Pack Like a Professional (It's Compulsory!)
Poor packaging can void your insurance. Insurers require that you take every precaution to protect the contents.
- Anonymity: NEVER write the nature or value of the contents on the parcel. No mention of "Bijoux", "iPhone" or "Fragile". The parcel should be as neutral as possible to avoid attracting attention.
- Sturdiness: Use new, rigid cardboard in perfect condition.
- Cushioning: The object must not move inside. Use bubble wrap, air cushions or foam to fill any gaps.
- Closure: Carefully seal all openings with wide, strong adhesive tape.
Step 3: Choose your insurance and declare the value
When creating your mailing label (online or at the post office) :
- Select the insurance option that best suits your needs (Ad Valorem or via a third-party insurer).
- Declare the exact value of your item, based on the supporting documents you have collected. Don't undervalue to save a few euros - you won't be reimbursed in full. Don't overestimate the value, as the insurer will ask for proof.
- Pay the insurance premium. Think of it as the price of your peace of mind.
Step 4: Keep ALL evidence
Once your parcel has been dispatched, keep it in a safe place:
- Proof of delivery with tracking number.
- The invoice for the shipment, mentioning the insurance subscription.
- Photos of the item and packaging.
What to do in the event of loss, theft or damage?
If the worst happens, don't panic. Act quickly and methodically.
- Contact the carrier immediately to report the incident and open an investigation.
- Report the claim to your insurer (either the carrier's or the specialist insurer's) within the allotted time (often very short - check the conditions!).
- Provide all required documents: proof of deposit, purchase or appraisal invoice, photos, and any communication with the carrier.
Comparative table: Which insurance should I choose?
In a nutshell
To insure a high-value parcel, it's essential to take out additional insurance (Ad Valorem or via a specialist insurer) that covers the real value of the item. By proving its value, carefully packing it and choosing the right cover, you can turn a nerve-racking shipment into a simple formality. Never ship a valuable object again without this financial shield. If you have any doubts or questions : contact us !
Find out more about ad valorem carrier insurance :
