Shipping guides
How to ship handguns
Handguns have the strictest shipping rules of anything you'll sell. For a private seller the short answer is: you can't ship one yourself; a licensed dealer ships it for you.
Who can take it
Private seller → buyer in another state
USPS doesn't let private sellers mail handguns. Hand it to a dealer (FFL) to ship.
- USPS: No
- UPS: No
- FedEx: No
Private seller → licensed dealer (FFL)
USPS doesn't let private sellers mail handguns. Hand it to a dealer (FFL) to ship.
- USPS: No
- UPS: No
- FedEx: No
Dealer with carrier agreements → dealer
- USPS: Yes: Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express · adult signature
- UPS: Yes: Next Day Air Saver, Next Day Air · adult signature
- FedEx: Yes: Priority Overnight · adult signature
Best way: UPS Next Day Air Saver. UPS with your firearms agreement.
Examples ship from Texas to Oklahoma. Your states can change the answer.
Before you ship
- I have a copy of the receiving dealer's license (FFL) and checked it on ATF's FFL eZ Check.
- 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.
- By USPS: fill out PS Form 1508 and hand the package over at the Post Office counter.
Insurance
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.$5.00
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.
Labels for this are coming soon. Check your exact shipment now.
Information, not legal advice. Laws and carrier rules change; when in doubt, ask the carrier or a local dealer.