What You Need To Know About Shipping Firearms

As far as arms and munitions go, what you need to know about shipping firearms depends on the specific cargo, as well as the stipulations required by specific shippers. While there are some standard guidelines to follow, it is recommended you check the company website or call the shipper to find their specific requirements.

Valid Federal Firearms License (FFL) and Postal Requirements

This is a federal law and is not subject to any changes. Any legal gun owner is allowed to ship their firearm to an FFL holder for sale, resale, or any legal reason. A non FFL holder is allowed to ship a firearm by carrier to any license holder in any state. Federal Law requires the recipient be notified that their package contains firearms or munitions. When it comes to shipping replicas and toy firearms like the airsoft guns over at airsoftgunguy.com, regulations vary by country and state if you are in the United States.

Using the U.S. Postal Service is allowed with the same FFL stipulations, as long as it is a rifle or shotgun. Sending handguns is not allowed with the U.S. Postal Service, but instead a contract or common carrier may do so. When mailing any firearm it is strongly recommended, but not required, not to distinguish the package as to contain firearms or munitions.

Check online for what you need to know about shipping firearms, specifically the U.S. Code titled Commerce in Firearms and Ammunition. If unsure contact the licensed recipient, as a violation of this code is a felony.

For Shippers who do not have a Federal Firearms License

Unlicensed shippers may only ship to licensed dealers. Unlicensed dealers may still be sold to, but a 3rd party with an FFL license must be gone through. Before shipping the gun a fax or letter signed by a licensed FFL authorizer must be sent to you, and shipped with the guns.

Typically air guns, accessories, and unassembled gun parts may be sent without an FFL license. However all guns have one part that is considered a firearm, the piece with the serial number, and this part must be sent through an FFL holder.

Ammunition

Special labeling must be applied to ammunition that marks it as hazardous and dangerous materials. Every carrier has its own guidelines for handling munitions, so check for specific directions.

So to recap what you need to know about shipping firearms:

• Ship only to Federal Firearms License Carriers
• It is recommended to mark that packages contain firearms
• Always mark ammunition has hazardous
• Refer to the U.S. Code titled Commerce in Firearms and Ammunition

When in doubt, check and double check with your shipping company about all of the regulations. The last thing you want is a surprise visit from the ATF and a felony conviction just for trying to ship a happy birthday hunting rifle to your Uncle Ted.

*Please note: the contents of this article are for informational purposes only. Please consult a shipping professional before shipping firearms of any kind.