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Can I ship this?

Which carrier takes it, how it has to go, and where it can’t. Every rule links its source.

Best way: USPS Priority Mail. USPS is the carrier that takes guns from private sellers; Priority is faster, with fewer hands on the box.
USPSCan ship
USPS Ground Advantage · USPS Priority Mail · USPS Priority Mail Express
Adult signature · “Return Service Requested”
  • Private sellers can mail an unloaded rifle or shotgun by USPS to a dealer (FFL) in any state, to themselves, or to someone in their own state. It needs tracking and a signature at delivery.
  • Mailing to a person in your own state: the package must be marked "Return Service Requested".
UPSCan’t ship
  • UPS and FedEx don't take guns from private sellers, even to a dealer. Use USPS (rifles and shotguns) or hand it to a dealer to ship.
FedExCan’t ship
  • UPS and FedEx don't take guns from private sellers, even to a dealer. Use USPS (rifles and shotguns) or hand it to a dealer to ship.
Before you ship
  • The gun is unloaded, and there's no ammo in the box.
  • I'm telling the carrier in writing that this package holds a firearm. SmoothShip keeps a copy of this notice with the label.
  • Use a plain outer box. Nothing on the outside (labels, tape, return address) should say what's inside.
  • Hand it over at the Post Office counter and tell the clerk it's an unloaded rifle or shotgun.
Sources (checked 2026-09-26)

Insurance for this

Guns-covered insuranceon U-PIC’s siteCovers firearms, parts, ammo and gear, on USPS, UPS and FedEx. Bought on U-PIC's site after your label; we hand over the tracking number. By U-PIC.Their price
Standard shipping insuranceAbout 1% of the value, $1 minimum. For gear; guns and ammo aren't confirmed yet. By the label platform's insurer. Coverage for this kind of item isn't confirmed.$2.00
InsureShieldAbout $1 per $100. UPS up to $10,000, USPS up to $5,000. Bought on UPS Capital's site. By UPS Capital. Coverage for this kind of item isn't confirmed.Their price
Carrier's built-in coverageFree. Most USPS, UPS and FedEx labels include up to $100. By the carrier. Coverage for this kind of item isn't confirmed.Free

Coverage comes from the insurer named, at their price, and they handle claims. Keep the sale receipt as proof of value.

Ready to ship it? Buy the label with these rules already applied.Buy a label

Information, not legal advice. Laws and carrier rules change; rules marked “check with carrier” come from secondary sources. When in doubt, ask the carrier or a local dealer.