How to Ship a Firearm Legally
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Federal law requires firearms shipped to licensed FFLs, with specific packaging and carrier requirements. Private individuals cannot ship handguns via USPS, and all shipments need proper declaration to carriers.
What This Means for You
Whether you're shipping a completed build for transfer, sending a firearm for gunsmithing work, or moving your collection, understanding shipping requirements prevents legal violations and ensures your firearms reach their destination safely. FFLs handle most transfers, but builders often need to ship for specialized services or warranty work.
The Detail
Federal law mandates that firearms shipped between private parties must go through Federal Firearms License holders at both ends of the transaction. You cannot legally ship a firearm directly to another private individual across state lines, and even intrastate shipments often require FFL involvement depending on state law. The only exception is shipping your own firearm to a manufacturer for repair or customization, where it can be shipped directly back to you.
USPS prohibits private individuals from shipping handguns entirely, though they allow long guns if properly declared and packaged. UPS and FedEx accept both handguns and long guns from private shippers but require adult signature on delivery and proper declaration during shipping. You must inform the carrier that you're shipping a firearm, use their approved packaging methods, and follow their specific labeling requirements.
Proper packaging means using a sturdy box with adequate padding to prevent movement during transit. The firearm should be unloaded and separated from any ammunition, which has its own shipping restrictions as hazardous material. External labeling should never indicate firearm contents, but internal documentation and carrier notification are mandatory.
When shipping to an FFL for transfer, you need their license information and must coordinate the shipment timing. Most FFLs prefer advance notice and may have specific receiving procedures. The receiving FFL will handle the background check and transfer paperwork once the firearm arrives, charging their standard transfer fee for the service.
Build Impact
If you build firearms regularly, establishing relationships with shipping-friendly FFLs streamlines the process for warranty work or specialized gunsmithing services. Understanding these requirements upfront prevents costly mistakes and ensures your builds can be serviced when needed.