Protecting Your Investment From Our Hands to Yours
Your HSS bag deserves the same meticulous care during transit that Hermès artisans devoted to its creation. From the moment we finalize your purchase to the instant it arrives in your hands, protecting your investment remains our absolute priority.
We’ve developed a comprehensive packaging and shipping system that treats every Birkin and Kelly as the precious work of art it truly is. Here’s how we ensure your bag arrives in pristine condition, ready to become a treasured part of your collection.
Our Packaging Philosophy
Hermès Special Order bags represent significant financial and emotional investments. A six-figure exotic Kelly or a meticulously chosen bi-color Birkin cannot be treated like ordinary merchandise. These pieces require museum-quality protection during every moment of their journey.
Our packaging approach balances multiple imperatives: structural protection against impact, climate control for leather preservation, security against theft or tampering, and presentation worthy of luxury goods. Every element serves a specific protective purpose while maintaining the dignity these bags deserve.
Multi-Layer Protection System
Layer 1: Dust Bag & Stuffing
We begin with the bag’s original Hermès dust bag when available, or provide a premium replacement that matches official specifications. This soft cotton envelope protects leather surfaces from direct contact with other materials and allows the bag to breathe during transit.
The bag’s interior receives careful stuffing with acid-free tissue paper. This maintains the bag’s shape, prevents creasing, and protects interior leather from pressure points. We pay particular attention to corners and base areas where structure matters most. Handles are gently supported to maintain their natural curve without stress on connection points.
Layer 2: Climate Protection
Leather responds sensitively to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Exotic skins prove especially vulnerable to environmental extremes. We wrap each dust-bagged piece in climate-protective materials that buffer against temperature swings and moisture changes.
This layer uses breathable materials that prevent condensation while providing insulation. Your bag remains protected whether traveling through desert heat, winter cold, or humid coastal regions.
Layer 3: Impact Protection
The wrapped bag is then cushioned within multiple layers of premium bubble wrap, specifically the type designed for high-value items. We use generous amounts—not the minimal wrapping that barely covers surfaces, but substantial protection that absorbs impacts from any angle.
Special attention goes to hardware elements. Locks, keys, and clasps receive individual protection to prevent scratching or pressure damage. Clochettes are secured but allowed slight movement to avoid stress on their attachment points.
Layer 4: Inner Box Security
The protected bag is placed within a rigid inner box—never directly into the shipping box. This inner container provides structural integrity and creates a protective void between your bag and the outer shipping environment.
The inner box is sized to prevent shifting during transit. We fill any gaps with premium packing materials that cushion without compressing. The result is a stable, secure package-within-a-package that absorbs shocks effectively.
Layer 5: Outer Shipping Container
Finally, the secured inner box is placed within a heavy-duty outer shipping carton. We use double-walled boxes specifically rated for high-value shipments—significantly stronger than standard shipping containers.
Additional cushioning fills the space between inner and outer boxes. This creates a suspension effect, isolating your bag from external impacts. Even if the outer box experiences rough handling, multiple protective layers ensure the bag remains unaffected.
Layer 6: Tamper-Evident Sealing
We seal packages with tamper-evident tape that shows any unauthorized opening attempts. This security feature protects against theft during transit and provides peace of mind that your bag travels untouched from our facility to your doorstep.
Each package is additionally marked with discrete security identifiers that allow tracking without advertising valuable contents to potential thieves.
Special Considerations for Different Bags
Exotic Leather Protection
Alligator, crocodile, and ostrich skins require enhanced care. These leathers are more delicate than standard options and can develop issues if exposed to extreme conditions or pressure.
Exotic bags receive additional climate buffering and extra-gentle stuffing that maintains shape without creating pressure points. We never use materials that might leave impressions on these sensitive surfaces. Transit times are minimized when possible, and we avoid shipping during extreme weather periods when carriers might store packages in uncontrolled environments.
Vintage & Delicate Pieces
Older HSS bags or those showing signs of wear receive customized packaging approaches. We assess each piece’s specific vulnerabilities and adjust protection accordingly.
Areas of existing patina or wear are documented and protected with extra cushioning. Hardware showing age receives gentle wrapping that prevents further scratching without applying pressure. Our goal is ensuring these treasured pieces arrive exactly as they left, with no additional stress from transit.
Large Format Bags
Birkin 40s, Kelly 35s, and other substantial sizes require custom-sized packaging materials. We maintain inventory of various box sizes to ensure proper fit without forcing bags into undersized containers.
These larger pieces receive proportionally more cushioning material, maintaining the same protection ratios as smaller bags. Their greater weight also necessitates reinforced box construction to prevent crushing during stacking.
Mini & Small Format Bags
Mini Kellys, Kelly 20s, and smaller pieces receive packaging proportionate to their size but not proportionate to their value. These compact bags often command premium prices and deserve equally premium protection.
We use scaled-down versions of our full protection system, ensuring these petite pieces travel as securely as their larger counterparts. The smaller package size also allows more discrete delivery, reducing theft risk.
Premium Carrier Selection
Domestic Shipping (United States)
For domestic deliveries, we utilize FedEx Priority Overnight or UPS Next Day Air services. These premium options provide the fastest transit times, reducing exposure to handling and environmental variables.
Signature is always required. We never allow packages to be left unattended, protecting against porch theft. Delivery addresses must be locations where recipients can accept packages personally during business hours.
Residential addresses are acceptable, but we recommend business addresses when possible. Commercial locations typically offer more secure receiving environments and better package handling.
International Shipping
International shipments use FedEx International Priority or DHL Express Worldwide. These services offer the best combination of speed, tracking reliability, and customs expertise for luxury goods.
All international packages are fully insured and declared at accurate values for customs purposes. We provide complete documentation to facilitate smooth customs clearance, though buyers remain responsible for any applicable duties, taxes, or fees in their destination country.
We’re experienced in shipping to major luxury markets worldwide: Europe, Asia, Middle East, and beyond. Our team understands regional regulations and packages accordingly to prevent customs delays or issues.
Special Circumstances
For extremely high-value pieces (six-figure exotics), we can arrange specialized courier services providing hand-carry delivery. A bonded courier personally transports your bag, eliminating standard shipping risks entirely.
This white-glove service includes flight escort, climate-controlled transport, and direct handoff to you at your location. While significantly more expensive than standard shipping, it provides ultimate security for investment-grade pieces.
Comprehensive Insurance Protection
Full Value Coverage
Every shipment is insured for its complete purchase price. This isn’t the limited liability coverage carriers provide as standard—that typically caps at $100 regardless of actual value. We purchase supplemental insurance ensuring full replacement value protection.
This coverage protects against loss, theft, or damage during transit. Should the unthinkable occur, you’re protected financially for your entire investment.
Coverage Documentation
You receive complete insurance documentation with your tracking information. This includes policy numbers, coverage amounts, and claim procedures should they ever become necessary.
We maintain detailed photographic records of each bag’s condition before shipping, providing evidence for insurance purposes and your own records. These images show the bag from multiple angles, capturing hardware details, stamps, and overall condition.
Claims Assistance
In the rare event of loss or damage, we handle claims processes on your behalf. Our experience with insurance claims for luxury goods ensures efficient resolution without you navigating complicated procedures alone.
We work directly with carriers and insurers to document claims, provide necessary evidence, and pursue maximum recovery. Your satisfaction and protection remain our priority even when circumstances are beyond our control.
Real-Time Tracking & Communication
Immediate Notification
The moment your package ships, you receive tracking information via email. This includes the carrier, tracking number, estimated delivery date, and direct links to real-time tracking.
We also provide our direct contact information should any questions or concerns arise during transit. You’re never left wondering about your package’s location or status.
Proactive Monitoring
We don’t just send tracking numbers and forget about packages. Our team monitors every shipment actively, watching for delays, routing issues, or delivery exceptions.
If we notice any concerns—weather delays, routing through extreme climates, delivery exceptions—we contact you immediately with updates and solutions. This proactive approach prevents surprises and maintains peace of mind.
Delivery Coordination
We work with you to schedule delivery at convenient times when you’ll be available to receive your package personally. If initial delivery attempts fail, we coordinate with carriers to prevent packages from sitting in facilities or being returned.
You can also request holds for pickup at carrier facilities if that’s more convenient than home/office delivery. We facilitate whatever arrangement works best for your schedule and security preferences.
Receiving Your Package
Inspection Upon Delivery
When your package arrives, inspect it carefully before signing for receipt. While our packaging protects exceptionally well, shipping damages can occasionally occur despite best efforts.
Check for any visible box damage, crushing, or tampering. If you notice concerning issues, note them on the delivery receipt before signing. Photograph any damage immediately, including the shipping label and tracking information visible in images.
Unpacking Protocol
Take your time unpacking. These bags are precious—rushing risks accidental drops or damage.
We recommend the following unpacking sequence:
- Place the package on a clean, soft surface
- Carefully cut tamper-evident seals and tape
- Remove outer packing materials slowly
- Lift the inner box out gently
- Remove cushioning materials gradually
- Unwrap bubble wrap layers carefully
- Remove climate protection
- Finally, retrieve your bag from its dust bag
Immediate Inspection
Once unpacked, examine your bag thoroughly in good lighting. Compare it against the pre-shipment photographs we provided. Check leather surfaces, hardware, stitching, stamps, and interior condition.
This is your opportunity to ensure everything matches our descriptions and photographs. Take your time with this inspection—these purchases deserve careful review.
Reporting Issues
If you discover any discrepancies, damage, or concerns, contact us immediately—ideally within the first day of receipt. Prompt reporting allows us to address issues quickly while evidence remains fresh.
Photograph any problems from multiple angles. Keep all packaging materials until issues are resolved. We work with you to find satisfactory solutions, whether that involves returns, repairs, or insurance claims.
Environmental Considerations
Sustainable Materials
We balance protection requirements with environmental responsibility. Our packaging materials are recyclable or biodegradable wherever possible without compromising security.
Cardboard boxes are made from recycled content and are fully recyclable. Bubble wrap is recyclable at participating centers. We avoid styrofoam and non-recyclable plastics whenever alternatives provide adequate protection.
Material Reuse Encouragement
We encourage clients to retain packaging materials for future use. Should you ever sell or transport your bag, these materials provide appropriate protection.
Original Hermès boxes and dust bags hold value both functionally and as collectible items. Store them carefully even after unpacking—they enhance resale value and provide proper storage.
Minimal Waste Approach
We use only the packaging materials necessary for adequate protection, avoiding excessive waste. Our system is refined through experience to provide maximum security with minimal material use.
International Shipping Details
Customs Documentation
All international shipments include complete customs declarations with accurate item descriptions and values. This transparency prevents customs delays and ensures legal compliance.
We provide commercial invoices, certificates of authenticity when available, and any other documentation your country requires for luxury good imports.
Duties & Taxes
Buyers are responsible for all import duties, taxes, and fees imposed by their destination country. These charges are not included in purchase or shipping prices and are collected by customs or carriers upon delivery.
We cannot predict exact duty amounts as they vary by country, item value, and local regulations. We recommend researching your country’s import requirements before purchasing to understand potential additional costs.
Transit Times
International shipping typically takes 2-7 business days depending on destination. Remote locations may require additional time. We provide estimated delivery dates when generating shipping labels.
Customs clearance adds variable timing—sometimes hours, occasionally days if additional documentation is required. We monitor all international shipments closely and assist with any customs issues that arise.
Restricted Destinations
Some locations have restrictions on luxury goods or specific leather types (particularly exotics). We verify shipping feasibility before completing sales to international addresses.
CITES regulations affect certain exotic leathers’ international movement. We ensure compliance with all applicable wildlife trade agreements when shipping crocodile, alligator, or other restricted materials.
Local Pickup Option
Personal Collection
Clients in our area are welcome to collect purchases in person by appointment. This option eliminates shipping time and allows you to inspect your bag immediately with our team present.
Personal pickups still include full packaging materials for your transport home. We prepare bags as carefully for local pickup as for international shipping—protection remains paramount.
Authentication Walkthrough
In-person pickups offer opportunities to discuss your bag’s authentication details directly with our specialists. We gladly walk you through stamps, leather characteristics, hardware authenticity, and other features that confirm genuine HSS status.
This educational experience helps you understand what makes your specific bag special and builds your broader knowledge for future collecting.
Ongoing Storage & Transport Advice
Proper Storage at Home
Once your bag arrives, store it properly to maintain its pristine condition:
- Climate Control: Avoid extreme heat, cold, or humidity. Ideal conditions are 60-75°F with 40-50% humidity
- Light Protection: Keep away from direct sunlight, which fades colors and dries leather
- Dust Bag Use: Always store in dust bags when not in use
- Shape Maintenance: Stuff bags lightly with acid-free tissue to maintain structure
- Air Circulation: Store in breathable bags/boxes—never sealed plastic
- Vertical Storage: Stand bags upright rather than stacking to prevent crushing
Travel Considerations
When traveling with your HSS bag:
- Use padded inserts to maintain shape in luggage
- Protect hardware with soft cloth wrapping
- Keep bags with you as carry-on when flying rather than checking
- Avoid exposing bags to rain, snow, or extreme weather
- Consider travel insurance for high-value pieces
Professional Transport Services
For moves, extensive travel, or storage facility transfers, consider professional art/luxury transport services. These specialists provide climate-controlled vehicles, experienced handling, and appropriate insurance for valuable collectibles.
Our Packaging Guarantee
We guarantee that your bag will arrive in the same condition it left our facility. Our packaging system has been refined over hundreds of shipments, and we’re confident in its effectiveness.
In the exceptionally rare event that damage occurs during transit despite our packaging efforts, we work immediately to resolve the situation. This may involve insurance claims, returns, repairs, or replacement depending on circumstances and your preferences.
Your satisfaction and protection drive every decision we make about packaging and shipping. We treat your investment with the respect and care it deserves from the moment you purchase until it rests safely in your hands.
Packaging & Shipping FAQs
How long does shipping take?
Domestic (US): 1-2 business days via overnight/next-day services. International: 2-7 business days depending on destination, plus customs clearance time.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping costs vary based on destination, insurance value, and service level. We provide exact quotes before finalizing purchases. Costs typically range from $50-150 domestic and $200-500 international for standard services.
Can I expedite my shipment?
We already use premium overnight/express services as standard. For international destinations with faster options available, we can arrange upgraded services at additional cost.
Will my package arrive in original Hermès packaging?
Original Hermès boxes and dust bags are included when available with the bag. If original packaging isn’t present, we provide premium alternatives that protect equally well.
What if I’m not home when delivery is attempted?
Carriers will make multiple delivery attempts and hold packages at local facilities for pickup. We help coordinate redelivery or pickup arrangements convenient for your schedule.
Can you ship to a PO Box?
Unfortunately, our premium shipping services require physical street addresses for signature delivery. We cannot ship to PO Boxes, but carrier facility pickup is available as an alternative.
How is the package labeled—does it advertise valuable contents?
Our packages are labeled discreetly. Nothing on the exterior indicates luxury handbag contents. This reduces theft risk during transit and at delivery.
Questions About Shipping?
Our team is happy to discuss shipping details, timing, costs, or any concerns you have about package delivery. We want you to feel completely confident about your bag’s journey from our facility to yours.
Contact us anytime with questions about packaging methods, carrier options, international shipping, insurance coverage, or special arrangements. Your peace of mind matters as much as your bag’s protection.