Allocated Storage

Term from Precious Metal Trading industry explained for recruiters

Allocated Storage is a secure way of storing precious metals where specific bars or coins are assigned to a particular customer. Think of it like having your own safety deposit box at a bank, but for gold, silver, or other precious metals. Each item is marked with a unique serial number and is fully owned by the customer. This is different from unallocated storage, where customers only own a share of a larger pool of metals. Companies offering allocated storage typically provide insurance, regular audits, and detailed documentation of ownership.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Allocated Storage accounts totaling over $50M in precious metals

Developed tracking system for Allocated Storage and Segregated Storage of precious metals

Supervised Allocated Storage vault operations and client documentation

Typical job title: "Precious Metal Storage Managers"

Also try searching for:

Vault Manager Precious Metals Custodian Bullion Storage Specialist Precious Metals Operations Manager Storage Facility Manager Allocated Metals Administrator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where a client disputes the condition of their stored metals?

Expected Answer: Should explain documentation procedures, insurance claims process, audit trails, and client communication protocols. Should emphasize importance of detailed intake documentation and regular verification procedures.

Q: What security measures would you implement for a large-scale allocated storage facility?

Expected Answer: Should discuss multiple security layers including physical security, surveillance, access controls, inventory management systems, and regular auditing procedures. Should also mention staff vetting and insurance requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Explain the difference between allocated and unallocated storage.

Expected Answer: Should clearly explain that allocated storage means specific items are assigned to specific customers with unique serial numbers, while unallocated storage means customers own a share of a general pool without specific items assigned.

Q: What documentation is essential for allocated storage operations?

Expected Answer: Should mention storage agreements, serial number records, insurance certificates, audit reports, and chain of custody documentation. Should understand importance of maintaining detailed records.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in receiving and storing allocated metals?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic intake procedures including verification, documentation of serial numbers, condition assessment, and proper storage placement. Should understand basic security protocols.

Q: How do you verify the authenticity of stored precious metals?

Expected Answer: Should know basic authentication methods, understand importance of working with certified products, and know when to involve external experts for verification.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic precious metals handling
  • Storage documentation
  • Inventory tracking
  • Security protocols

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Client relationship management
  • Detailed record keeping
  • Security system management
  • Regulatory compliance

Senior (5+ years)

  • Facility management
  • Risk assessment
  • Insurance coordination
  • Audit management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of precious metals handling procedures
  • Lack of security awareness
  • Poor attention to detail in documentation
  • No understanding of compliance requirements
  • Unfamiliarity with storage facility operations