Shipping Firearms: Federal Regulations & Carrier Policies

Shipping firearms is heavily regulated by federal law and carrier policies. Here's what you need to know to ship guns legally.

Legal Framework

Key Regulations

Federal Firearm License (FFL)

Who Can Ship Firearms?

FFL Holders

• Can ship to other FFLs
• Can ship to individuals (with restrictions)
• Must follow all ATF regulations
• Must comply with carrier policies

Non-FFL (Individuals)

*Non-licensed persons may ship to residents of their own state, but restrictions apply.

General Rules

• Handguns: Generally FFL to FFL only
• Long guns: More flexibility, but restrictions apply
• Interstate: FFL involvement usually required
• Background check: Through FFL at destination

Carrier Policies

USPS

USPS requirements:

• Registered Mail recommended
• Declaration required (sealed statement)
• Properly packaged
• Cannot be marked as containing firearm

UPS

FedEx

Packaging Requirements

All Carriers Require

Packaging Steps

Unload firearm completely

Place in hard case or secure packaging

Lock if possible

Wrap in neutral packing material

Place in outer shipping box

Seal securely

No external firearm indication

Ammunition Shipping

Regulations

Requirements

• Ground shipping only
• ORM-D or Limited Quantity label
• Proper packaging to prevent movement
• Maximum quantity limits apply
• Cannot ship with firearms (separate packages)

State Considerations

Destination State Laws

Must comply with destination state:

• Magazine capacity limits
• Assault weapon restrictions
• Permit requirements
• Waiting periods

Example State Restrictions

FFL to FFL Shipping

Standard Process

Verify receiving FFL is valid

Keep copy of FFL on file

Complete required ATF forms

Use approved carrier

Ship per carrier guidelines

Maintain records

Record Keeping

ATF requires FFLs maintain:

• Acquisition records
• Disposition records
• 4473 forms
• A&D book entries
• 20 years retention

Return for Repair

Sending to Manufacturer

Individual can ship:

• To manufacturer for repair
• Must use authorized carrier
• Properly packaged
• Unloaded

Receiving Back

Return from manufacturer:

• Can ship to individual's home
• Same state only for handguns
• Use common carrier

Online Firearm Sales

Process

Buyer and seller agree on sale

Seller ships to buyer's chosen FFL

Buyer completes transfer at FFL

FFL runs background check

Buyer takes possession (if approved)

Seller Responsibilities

• Verify FFL is valid
• Use approved shipping method
• Document shipment
• Keep records

Penalties for Violations

Federal Penalties

Carrier Violations

• Account termination
• Refusal of future shipments
• Potential reporting to authorities

Compliance Checklist

Before shipping firearms:

• [ ] Verify your legal authority to ship
• [ ] Confirm destination FFL (if required)
• [ ] Check destination state laws
• [ ] Unload firearm completely
• [ ] Use proper packaging
• [ ] Select approved carrier service
• [ ] Complete required documentation
• [ ] Maintain shipping records

atoship Firearms Shipping

For licensed firearms dealers:

Carrier compliance: UPS and FedEx options

FFL verification: Integration available

Service selection: Overnight for handguns

Documentation: Proper labeling

Tracking: Full visibility

Note: atoship facilitates shipping for properly licensed FFL holders only.

Conclusion

Shipping firearms requires strict adherence to ATF regulations, state laws, and carrier policies. Most firearm shipments require FFL involvement, proper packaging, and approved carriers. When in doubt, consult with an FFL or attorney familiar with firearms laws.