Opening a precious metals IRA? Where your metals are stored is just as important as which metals you choose. Safe, secure, and fully insured storage is critical to protecting your hard-earned savings. That's where Delaware Depository comes in — one of the most respected names in the precious metals storage industry.

In this review, we’ll explore Delaware Depository’s services, security measures, pricing, pros and cons, and how it compares to alternatives. If you're wondering whether it's the best choice for your Gold IRA storage, read on.

What Is Delaware Depository?

Delaware Depository is a privately held precious metals storage facility headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware. Founded in 1999, it has built a reputation as a trusted custodian of gold, silver, platinum, and palladium for retail customers, IRA custodians, and bullion dealers.

The company is licensed and reviewed by various commodity exchanges, chartered and regulated by the Office of the Delaware State Banking Commissioner, and operates as a regulated trust company. This level of oversight reinforces Delaware Depository’s position as a premier storage option for retirement savers.

Delaware Depository Services

Delaware Depository offers a wide range of services designed for precious metals owners:

• Segregated and Non-Segregated Storage: Customers can opt for metals stored separately (segregated) or together with others’ holdings (non-segregated).
• Full Insurance Coverage: All metals are fully insured under a $1 billion all-risk policy through Lloyd’s of London.
• Domestic and International Storage Options: Metals can be stored either in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Nevada or offshore in Canada or Switzerland through a secure facility partnership.
• IRS Compliance: Bullion stored meets IRS requirements for Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs).
• Direct Communication: Customers’ metals are held directly by the depository, not by intermediaries or leased facilities.

Security Features

Security is at the heart of Delaware Depository’s operations:

• Geographic Safety: Wilmington, Delaware is distant from major political and financial centers like Washington, D.C., and New York City, reducing exposure to urban unrest or terrorism. The location is also relatively free from natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes.
• Fortified Construction: Facilities feature 21-inch thick, steel-reinforced concrete walls, bullet-resistant doors, and Class III UL-rated vaults compliant with the Bank Protection Act.
• Advanced Access Controls: Multiple interlocking steel doors restrict access. Employees pass through metal detectors that compare the metal content on their body to a saved personal profile. Any variance denies access.
• Personnel Screening: Criminal background checks, credit verification, and random drug testing are performed on all employees.
• 24/7 Monitoring: Redundant alarm systems detect motion, vibration, and sound, with all activity digitally recorded and monitored around the clock.
• Secure Transportation: Insured, armored carrier shipments to and from the facility.
• Operational Redundancy: Backup power systems and communications ensure uninterrupted operations even during emergencies.

Internal Controls and Business Integrity

Delaware Depository goes beyond physical security with rigorous internal protocols:

• Separation of Duties and Dual-Control Procedures: No single employee has unchecked control over precious metals.
• Proprietary Systems: Inventory control systems track holdings with precision.
• Regular Audits: Frequent internal audits plus annual third-party CPA reviews maintain accountability.
• Business Continuity Planning: Disaster recovery and data protection systems are in place to protect operations and customer records.
• Debt-Free Operations: Delaware Depository owns its buildings, has no debt, and does not lease facilities—meaning customer holdings are shielded from creditor claims.

Additionally, customer bullion is fully allocated and held off the company's balance sheet, ensuring the customer retains full legal ownership at all times.

Pricing and Fees

Storage fees at Delaware Depository vary based on the type of storage and your IRA custodian’s agreement. Segregated storage tends to be the preferred option, though there are pros and cons of each.

Segregated vs. Non-Segregated Storage

When storing precious metals at a depository, you typically have two options: segregated or non-segregated storage.

• Segregated Storage means your metals are stored separately from others' holdings. The exact coins or bars you send in are individually labeled and kept apart, ensuring you get back the same specific items when you withdraw. This option offers maximum control but usually comes at a higher cost.
• Non-Segregated Storage means your metals are stored together with other customers’ holdings of the same type and quality. While you maintain full ownership, you may not receive the exact same bars or coins you deposited — you’ll get back an equivalent item of the same kind. Non-segregated storage is typically more affordable.

Both options are fully insured and secure. The right choice depends on your preferences for cost, flexibility, and control.

How much should one pay for segregated storage?

To give a general idea, if you chose segregated storage through The Entrust Group as your custodian, annual storage storage costs would break down to .005% your total account value. 

Delaware Depository maintains a simple, transparent fee structure with no hidden costs. Be sure to verify exact pricing with your IRA dealer or custodian, as fees may also include account administration.

💡 Tip: It's important to note that Gold IRA companies offer promotions for attracting customers that sometimes include 'zero IRA fees' for qualifying accounts. Make sure to ask your gold dealer about any incentives or ongoing promotional offers.

Pros of Delaware Depository

Delaware Depository offers some of the highest levels of protection available for precious metals buyers. Its physical, electronic, and operational security measures are among the strongest in the industry, giving retirement savers and serious buyers peace of mind.

Another major advantage is its comprehensive insurance: Delaware Depository maintains a $1 billion all-risk policy underwritten by Lloyd’s of London, ensuring customer holdings are fully protected against loss, theft, or damage.

Financial stability is another key strength. Unlike some competitors, Delaware Depository operates completely independently, owning all of its facilities outright without any debt, mortgages, or shared spaces.

This means customers’ metals are insulated from creditor claims or financial instability. Investors can also rest easy knowing that the depository fully complies with IRS regulations for IRA-approved bullion storage.

Adding to its credibility, Delaware Depository boasts a highly experienced team, with over 250 years of collective precious metals experience among its management and supervisory personnel. For those seeking geographic diversification, the company also offers an offshore storage option in Canada and Switzerland, giving customers even more flexibility in how they protect their wealth.

Cons of Delaware Depository

While Delaware Depository excels in many areas, it’s important to be aware of a few potential downsides.

First, the company does not offer direct consumer accounts. To store metals with Delaware Depository, customers must go through an approved IRA custodian or an authorized bullion dealer, which adds an extra layer to the setup process.

Additionally, while Delaware Depository’s pricing is competitive for non-segregated storage, the cost of segregated storage is notably higher. Although the extra expense is justified by the added protection and individualized handling, it may not be ideal for Gold IRA accounts with smaller precious metals holdings or those seeking lower-cost options.

It's also important to note there is limited access to your metals. Customers typically cannot physically visit their stored metals at Delaware Depository.

Who Should Consider Delaware Depository?

Delaware Depository is a strong fit for:

• Retirement Savers: Those securing metals in a Gold IRA who prioritize compliance and protection.
• High Net Worth Investors: Individuals requiring segregated, fully insured storage.
• Security-Conscious Buyers: Anyone looking for maximum legal and physical protection for their holdings.

If you want institutional-level safety for your gold, silver, platinum, or palladium, Delaware Depository is one of the best storage choices available.

Alternatives to Delaware Depository

Looking for other secure storage providers? Here are a few competitors:

• Brinks Global Services: Offers global storage solutions, flexible options, and a strong reputation.
• International Depository Services (IDS): Known for competitive pricing and excellent customer service.

Each offers strong services, but Delaware Depository distinguishes itself with its independent ownership, no-debt model, and unrivaled internal security controls.

Final Verdict: Is Delaware Depository the Best for Gold IRA Storage?

Delaware Depository’s combination of physical fortifications, rigorous employee screening, strong financial foundation, comprehensive insurance, and meticulous internal controls make it a standout in the precious metals storage industry.

While it may not be the cheapest storage option, for retirement savers and serious gold buyers who prioritize security and compliance, Delaware Depository is hard to beat. If safeguarding your precious metals is your top priority, Delaware Depository is an excellent choice.

Visit their website directly for more information. 

FAQ

Is Delaware Depository IRS-approved for Gold IRAs?

Yes. Delaware Depository is a regulated trust company and stores bullion in full compliance with IRS rules for Individual Retirement Accounts.

Can I visit my metals stored at Delaware Depository?

Typically, no. For security reasons, Delaware Depository does not allow public visits to vault areas. Audits and account statements provide verification instead.

How do I set up storage at Delaware Depository?

Storage arrangements are made through your Gold IRA custodian or authorized dealer. You cannot set up an account directly as a consumer.

What happens if Delaware Depository is robbed or damaged?

Delaware Depository maintains $1 billion in all-risk insurance coverage underwritten through Lloyd’s of London, offering customers full financial protection.

Questions?

GoldenCrest Metals has helped thousands of Americans open secure Gold IRAs with trusted partners like Delaware Depository.

Request your free copy of their 2025 Gold IRA Guide today and discover how easy it is to protect your wealth with physical gold.