With firearms, you want to be on the right side of the law at all times. Just like William Kirk of Gun Law likes to say, “Part of being a responsible gun owner is knowing the law and how it applies to you in any instance you find yourself.” You ought to update yourself on everything from carrying, transportation by air, sea, and land, changing ownership, etc.
As a gun owner, you may have questions like, “What are the rules for sending a shotgun?” or “Is it legal to mail a handgun through the U.S. Mail?” regardless of your level of experience.
This blog addresses these concerns, and in addition, elaborates 4 sure ways of mailing a firearm, ensuring your package arrives safely and legally at its destination.
Knowing The Rules Before Sending Your Firearm Away
Mailing a firearm can be easy but certain aspects will be complicated. It is like driving cross-country where different states have different traffic laws.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) regulates gun shipments. They have clear rules on who is allowed to mail firearms, their packaging, and who can receive them.
Besides these federal regulations, individual states have their own laws governing the shipping of firearms. For instance, California requires special permits for certain types of guns.
Always make a point of informing yourself about where you intend to ship a firearm and what laws you are subject to – both state and federal.
How to Mail Firearms
Packaging
Transporting firearms regardless of the mode requires you to have them safely and securely tacked away in lockable gun cases. Mailing guns is no different. Aside from your cases, you may consider sturdy cardboard boxes with strong double walls.
Pack tightly with ample cushioning around the firearm, using bubble wrap, foam inserts, or packing materials specifically designed for fragile items. Pack your ammunition separately in its sealed container.
Paperwork
With regulations comes paperwork. Ensure you have all the necessary licenses, permits, and paperwork for both the sender and receiver. You may need an affidavit from the recipient confirming their eligibility to receive a firearm or an FFL on hand if you are shipping to a gun shop.
Choose Your Courier Carefully
Different couriers have specifics on what they accept to transport. Only a few mail firearms for its customers. Check with your preferred service provider about their specific rules and restrictions.
Generally, USPS only accepts long guns (rifles and shotguns) from licensed firearm dealers. For handguns, you'll need to go through a licensed dealer or consider alternatives like UPS or FedEx, which have stricter protocols for secure firearm transport.
Tracking
Track your consignment from the point of sending until it reaches its intended recipient.
Keep it Discreet
Only include labels on the outside of the box about what you are shipping if you are required to label.
Courier Cautions
Consider the following key points:
License Required: In most situations, you'll need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) to ship a firearm.
Paper Trail: Prepare yourself for some paperwork. You'll likely need to fill out forms declaring the contents and ensuring they comply with all regulations.
Label: Labels should be plain and simple, with no hints about the box's precious cargo.
Can Firearms Be Shipped Through the U.S. Mail?
Can you send a firearm in the mail? It depends...
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) has established some strict shipping procedures to follow when mailing some merchandise such as firearms. Let’s break it down:
What can you Mail?
Long Guns (Rifles and Shotguns): These are generally okay, but they must be unloaded and meet specific size requirements.
Curios or Relies: Antique firearms that qualify as collector's items can be mailed under special circumstances, but you'll need documentation from a museum curator.
What can't you Mail?
Handguns: These are considered "concealable" and therefore off-limits for the mail unless mailed between
- Authorized Persons: licensed manufacturer of firearms, a licensed dealer of firearms, or an authorized agent of the federal government
- Manufacturers and Dealers
Anything Illegal: Any firearm that violates state or federal laws cannot be mailed.
Alternatives to the USPS
If you have a handgun or don't want to deal with the USPS, other shipping companies like UPS and FedEx can handle your firearms, however, their rules may vary. Check their websites or give them a call before you pack up your gun.
4 Safe Ways to Mail a Firearm
Here are four reliable methods to ensure your firearm reaches its destination securely:
1. Licensed Dealers and FFL Holders
These are professionals licensed by the government to handle firearms. Firearm dealers and FFL holders have a wide leeway when it comes to firearm ownership, transportation, and sale. You can use this option as a secure way of shipping your firearms.
They can pack your firearm securely, use the proper shipping labels, and handle the paperwork smoothly. Moreover, they can often ship to licensed dealers in other states, which might be difficult for individuals to do. It's a convenient and worry-free option although there might be a fee for their services.
2. Specialized Firearm Shipping Services
Similar to licensed dealers, these companies are experts in the safe and legal transport of firearms. They generally handle all the details, such as documentation, courier selection, packaging, etc.
This option is a little costly but way more convenient than having to use USPS or other mailing services.
3. Shipping through Licensed Firearm Retailers
If you're buying or selling a firearm through a licensed retailer, they might offer to handle the shipping for you. This can be a convenient option, especially if you're already working with them. Ensure the retailer is licensed to ship firearms and that they follow all the necessary safety protocols.
4. Shipping with Recognized couriers
Some major shipping couriers, like UPS and FedEx, allow shipping of firearms under specific conditions. You'll need to follow their strict guidelines, which include using a licensed dealer as the shipper and receiver, packing the firearm securely in a hard case, and declaring it as a firearm on the shipping label.
This is the most affordable option, however, you will need to ensure that everything is done correctly and that you are well-informed about the procedures involved.
Note:
Safety First: Always prioritize safety when handling and shipping firearms. Ensure the firearm is unloaded and properly secured before packing it.
Know the Rules: Laws and regulations regarding firearm shipping vary by state and courier. Know the specific requirements before sending your firearm.
Documentation: Keep copies of all necessary paperwork, including the shipping label and required permits or licenses.
Ask for Help: If you're unsure about any aspect of firearm shipping, don't hesitate to ask a licensed dealer, shipping company, or your local law enforcement agency for guidance.
The Bottom Line
Don't let convenience or lack of knowledge put you at risk. You should always focus on knowing the law and how it applies in every situation you find yourself in.
Firearm shipping is highly regulated. These laws may also vary from state to state in addition to the established federal laws. Therefore, before mailing your firearm, you need to have learned what your state and country expect from you.
You can always choose USPS to ship your arsenal. However, you have other options such as your retailers, FFL holders, dealers, third-party shipping services, or recognized couriers.