How to ship rifles and shotguns
Private sellers can mail an unloaded rifle or shotgun themselves, but only by USPS and only to a licensed dealer, to themselves, or to someone in their own state.
Who can take it
A gun sold to someone in another state has to ship to a dealer (FFL) in their state, not to them.
- USPS: No
- UPS: No
- FedEx: No
- USPS: Yes: Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express · adult signature
- UPS: No
- FedEx: No
Best way: USPS Priority Mail. USPS is the carrier that takes guns from private sellers; Priority is faster, with fewer hands on the box.
- USPS: Yes: Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express · adult signature
- UPS: Yes: Ground, 3 Day Select, 2nd Day Air, Next Day Air Saver, Next Day Air · adult signature
- FedEx: Yes: Ground, Express Saver, 2Day, Priority Overnight · adult signature
Best way: USPS Priority Mail. USPS Priority is tracked and signed for, with no carrier agreement needed.
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.
- Hand it over at the Post Office counter and tell the clerk it's an unloaded rifle or shotgun.
Insurance
Coverage comes from the insurer named, at their price, and they handle claims. Keep the sale receipt as proof of value.
Information, not legal advice. Laws and carrier rules change; when in doubt, ask the carrier or a local dealer.