Dealer Guide
Gold Dealers with Free Shipping
Shipping costs can eat into your investment, especially on smaller orders. We compare the free shipping thresholds and policies of every major online precious metals dealer.
Shipping Comparison
Free Shipping Thresholds by Dealer
The table below ranks major online dealers by their free shipping minimum. All dealers listed provide fully insured shipping via USPS Registered Mail or UPS with tracking.
| Dealer | Free Shipping Minimum | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monument Metals | No minimum | 2–5 business days |
| APMEX | $99+ | 2–5 business days |
| Hero Bullion | $99+ | 3–5 business days |
| JM Bullion | $199+ | 2–5 business days |
| SD Bullion | $199+ | 3–7 business days |
Thresholds and transit times are subject to change. Check each dealer's website for the most current shipping policies.
Shipping Details
What to Know About Gold Shipping
Shipping precious metals is different from typical e-commerce. Every reputable dealer fully insures your shipment from warehouse to doorstep, but there are important details to understand before you order.
Insurance & Liability
All major dealers insure shipments for the full purchase value. If your package is lost, stolen in transit, or arrives damaged, the dealer is responsible for making it right. Once you sign for delivery, however, responsibility transfers to you. Never leave a precious metals package unattended at your door.
Signature Requirements
Most dealers require adult signature confirmation on orders above $500–$1,000. Some require signatures on all precious metals shipments regardless of value. This is a security measure that protects both parties. Be prepared to be home for delivery or have someone available to sign.
Discreet Packaging
Reputable dealers ship in plain, unmarked packaging with no indication of the contents. Return addresses typically use a generic business name rather than the dealer's well-known brand. This is standard practice across the industry.
Tracking
All dealers provide tracking numbers via email once your order ships. Most use USPS Registered Mail for high-value orders (the most secure USPS service) and UPS for standard shipments. You can monitor your package from warehouse to delivery.
Shipping is only part of the cost equation. See which dealers offer the lowest premiums over spot and compare buyback programs for when you sell. Browse all dealer reviews for the complete picture.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gold dealer has the lowest free shipping threshold?
Monument Metals currently offers free shipping with no minimum order, making it the most accessible option for small purchases. APMEX and Hero Bullion follow with free shipping on orders of $99 or more.
Is gold shipping insured?
Yes, all reputable dealers fully insure shipments against loss or damage during transit. This is standard practice in the industry. If a package is lost or arrives damaged, the dealer is responsible for replacing it or issuing a refund.
Do gold dealers require a signature for delivery?
Most dealers require signature confirmation for orders above a certain value, typically $500–$1,000. Some dealers require signatures on all orders regardless of value. This protects both you and the dealer from delivery disputes.
How long does shipping take from online gold dealers?
Most dealers ship within 1–3 business days for in-stock items paid by credit card or wire. Check and ACH payments add 5–7 business days for clearing. Transit time is typically 2–5 business days via USPS or UPS depending on your location.
Compare All Reviewed Dealers
Read our full dealer reviews covering pricing, shipping, customer service, and buyback programs for every major online dealer.
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