THE SHORT ANSWER
Test withdrawal terms before storage becomes a one-way door
Before funding, obtain written eligibility, minimum size, bar-selection rules, notice, identity documents, storage balance, fabrication or conversion, handling, insurance, shipping and delivery timing. A statement showing metal value does not by itself prove you can withdraw the promised product on acceptable terms.
PRE-FUNDING TEST
Ask for a sample withdrawal calculation in writing
WARRANT BOUNDARY
Exchange delivery is a documented process, not casual vault access
CME describes metal placed on warrant at an approved depository and the choices to leave it on warrant, remove the warrant while keeping it stored, or cancel for load-out. That framework is not a promise that a retail storage account follows CME rules. Use it as an example of how title documents, fees and release instructions must align.
SAFE HANDOFF
Preserve evidence from vault release to final custody
Named person and verified instruction channel.
Bar list, seals and package state.
Transit scope and valuation.
Carrier, chain of custody and exceptions.
Photograph unopened handoff.
Serials, weight, statement and final balance.
STOP CONDITIONS
Delay a transfer when instructions or risk ownership are ambiguous
Do not proceed if the provider cannot identify the releasing vault, refuses a complete fee schedule, changes the delivery product without contractual support, sends payment instructions from an unrelated entity or leaves transit insurance and risk transfer undefined.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Regulator and market-standard evidence
- Joint FINRA/CFTC physical-metals bulletin for dealer, spread, fees, storage and statement checks.
- CFTC precious-metals fraud advisory for missing metal, undisclosed storage, financing and delivery warning signs.
- NFA guidance on checking BASIC records for the important difference between an ID number, membership and approved status.
- LBMA precious-metal account guide for allocated account bar lists, unallocated entitlement and insurance boundaries.
- LBMA vaulting overview for the Loco London custodian role and the fact that LBMA does not accredit new vaults.
- CME precious-metals delivery process for warrant, eligible metal and load-out choices in that exchange framework.
Reviewed July 31, 2026. Registration, custody terms, fees, insurance and withdrawal procedures are time-sensitive; verify the current contract and official record.
FAQ
Stored gold delivery questions
How do I take delivery of stored gold?
Obtain the current withdrawal procedure, confirm eligibility and legal title, select eligible bars or products, pay disclosed charges, complete identity and shipping instructions, and preserve the custody handoff.
What is gold load-out?
In an exchange-depository context, load-out is removal of metal after the relevant warrant or delivery document is cancelled and required charges and title documents are satisfied.
Can I demand the exact allocated bars?
That depends on the agreement. Some allocated-account terms permit the provider to select or substitute bars under stated conditions. Read serial-selection and substitution clauses before funding.
Why test a small withdrawal?
It can expose minimums, delays, documentation requirements, unexpected fees and differences between a marketing promise and the actual process before a larger amount is at risk.