Shipping Firearms Across State Lines [Expert Guide]

Shipping firearms across state lines can be challenging if you do not know the rules. Each state and carrier has its own regulations, and breaking the law can get you into serious trouble.

If you are not a licensed firearm dealer, you generally cannot ship guns to someone in another state without going through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder.

If you need to send a firearm, understanding federal laws and using the right shipping method is important. Mailing handguns is even more restricted than rifles or shotguns.

Knowing these basics helps you avoid common mistakes when shipping firearms.

Understanding Federal Laws on Shipping Firearms

Shipping firearms across state lines is tightly regulated under federal law. It is important to know who can send or receive firearms, what types are banned from shipping, and what specific rules are in place to avoid breaking the law.

Federal Law and Title 18

Federal law that controls shipping firearms is mainly found in Title 18 of the United States Code, Chapter 44. This law sets rules for sales, transfers, and shipping of guns between states.

To legally ship a firearm, you must follow the guidelines set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Long guns, such as rifles and shotguns, may be shipped by a nonlicensee to a dealer with a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Shipping handguns is more restricted; only FFL holders may use common carriers to ship handguns.

Mailing handguns through the U.S. Postal Service is only allowed for FFL holders, not regular individuals.

If you are sending a firearm to another state, the receiver must usually be an FFL holder, especially for modern guns. Not following these laws can lead to serious criminal penalties.

Who Can Legally Ship Firearms

You can legally ship a firearm if you are an FFL dealer or, in certain cases, a nonlicensee sending a gun to an FFL dealer. Private individuals are not allowed to ship handguns to each other across state lines.

Most shipments between private parties must go through an FFL in the recipient's state.

If you want to ship a firearm to yourself in another state, for example for hunting or moving, federal law allows it as long as you are not sending it to someone else.

You cannot ship a gun to someone who is not allowed by law to have one, even if they have a concealed carry permit.

Important points to remember:

• Handguns: Only FFLs can ship handguns by common carrier.
• Long guns: Nonlicensees can ship to FFLs, but not directly to another person across state lines.
• Background checks are required when firearms are transferred through FFLs.

Prohibited Items: Silencers and Others

Federal law completely bans the shipment of certain items. Silencers (also called suppressors), machine guns, and short-barreled rifles or shotguns cannot be shipped unless you have special federal approval.

These are classified under the National Firearms Act (NFA). It is illegal for anyone who is not properly licensed or approved to ship or receive these items.

If you try to ship a silencer without following strict federal procedures, you can face severe criminal charges.

Never try to ship explosives, destructive devices, or any gun parts that are illegal in your state or under federal law.

It does not matter if you have a concealed carry permit; these bans apply to all citizens unless special paperwork has been filed and approved. Always check the laws carefully before sending any firearm or related part through the mail or a shipping service.

State Laws and Compliance

Shipping firearms across state lines requires knowledge of state-specific laws and careful attention to legal details. Regulations can differ by state, which can affect what is allowed, who can receive a firearm, and the way you must ship it.

Variation in State Firearm Regulations

Gun laws and shipping requirements are not the same in every state. Some states have strict rules for types of firearms, required documentation, and shipping procedures.

Others may have fewer restrictions, especially on rifles and shotguns. Before you ship a firearm, you need to check the laws for both your state and the destination state.

For example:

• Some states require background checks before any transfer.
• Magazine size limits or bans on certain features may apply in the destination state.
• Waiting periods or specific storage requirements may also exist for shipments.

State websites, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and shipping carriers like UPS or FedEx provide important details.

Responsibilities of Residents and Nonlicensees

If you are not a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), you face more rules when shipping. Federal law allows a nonlicensee to ship a rifle or shotgun to a resident in the same state or to an FFL holder in any state.

You cannot legally ship a handgun to a nonlicensee in a different state.

• Handguns: Federal law requires shipment through a licensed dealer (FFL) when crossing state lines.
• Long guns (rifles/shotguns): May be shipped to FFLs or in-state residents, depending on state law.

Always ship firearms unloaded and in locked containers. Labeling packages with firearm information is not required and often discouraged by carriers.

Make sure the person receiving the firearm is legally allowed to have it under both state and federal law.

Types of Firearms and Shipping Requirements

To ship firearms across state lines, you must know the differences in shipping requirements for long guns and handguns. These requirements depend on federal law and the rules of carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx.

Long Guns: Shotguns and Rifles

A long gun includes both shotguns and rifles. If you are not a licensed dealer, you may mail a shotgun or rifle to someone in your own state or to a licensed dealer (called an FFL) in another state.

The U.S. Postal Service allows long guns to be mailed between nonlicensees within the same state. Shipping to a dealer out of state is allowed if you follow federal rules.

You should package the firearm unloaded and make sure it is not marked in a way that reveals it is a gun. UPS and FedEx only allow individuals to ship long guns to licensed dealers and not to private persons, even within your state.

They may have their own forms to complete and might need to see a copy of your identification.

Key Points:

• Only ship to legal recipients (residents of your state or federal licensees)
• Use proper packaging (unloaded, secure)
• Check each carrier's policies

Handguns and Their Specific Restrictions

Handguns have stricter rules than long guns. The U.S. Postal Service does not let regular people mail handguns at all, except under very limited circumstances (like some law enforcement situations).

You may only ship a handgun using a common or contract carrier, such as UPS or FedEx. These carriers require that you be a federal firearms licensee (FFL), or you must ship directly to a licensee.

For most people, this means you cannot legally ship a handgun to another person yourself—you must go through a dealer. Always declare the package as a handgun with the carrier, even though the box cannot show outside labels saying it is a firearm.

The gun must be unloaded and packaged securely.

Remember:

• Never mail a handgun through USPS if you are not a dealer
• Only ship handguns to FFLs using approved carriers
• Provide all required documents and follow federal and carrier rules

Shipping Through Licensed Dealers and Transfers

When you want to ship firearms across state lines, you must follow strict laws. Most of the time, you will need to use a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer as part of the process.

Role of the FFL Dealer

An FFL dealer is licensed by the federal government to handle buying, selling, and transferring firearms. You cannot usually ship a gun directly to a private person in another state.

Instead, you need to ship the firearm to an FFL dealer located near the recipient. The FFL dealer receives the firearm, checks the paperwork, and keeps records.

This is a legal requirement that helps track the transfer and ensure all rules are followed. You can find FFL dealers at gun stores, sporting goods stores, or dedicated firearms businesses.

Before shipping, always contact the receiving FFL dealer to confirm their requirements and fees. Many dealers will ask for a copy of your photo ID and information about the transfer.

Firearm Transfer and Background Checks

When the firearm arrives at the FFL dealer, the recipient must complete a firearm transfer. This process checks if the person is legally allowed to own a firearm.

The FFL dealer runs a federal background check, usually using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). The recipient fills out a Form 4473, which asks about criminal history and other important factors.

If the background check is approved, the dealer can release the firearm. If it is delayed or denied, the firearm will remain with the FFL dealer.

Selecting a Shipping Carrier

Choosing the right carrier is important if you want to ship firearms legally and safely. Carriers have strict rules on how firearms are accepted, handled, and delivered, so you should know their requirements before you ship.

USPS Regulations and Registered Mail

The United States Postal Service (USPS) allows shipment of rifles and shotguns between non-licensed individuals if both are in the same state. Handguns can only be mailed by federally licensed dealers and manufacturers.

If you are a regular individual, you cannot mail a handgun with USPS. Registered Mail is mandatory for any firearm shipped through USPS.

It offers extra security, tracking, and restricted delivery. You must also keep the firearm unloaded and package it securely, following all postal requirements.

Ammunition cannot be shipped with a firearm through USPS. Always check with your local post office for updated policies.

UPS and FedEx Policies

UPS and FedEx are common choices for shipping firearms, especially when shipping handguns or sending guns across state lines. Both require that firearms be shipped only between Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, or shipped from an authorized individual to an FFL.

You cannot send firearms through their air or ground services if you do not follow these requirements. Handguns shipped by UPS must use UPS Next Day Air, by company policy.

FedEx also restricts handgun shipments to express services for safety and legal compliance. All firearms must be unloaded, and you need clear labeling and proper documentation.

You should never mention "firearm" on the external packaging for security reasons. Always drop off firearms at official customer centers—do not use drop boxes.

Carriers may refuse shipments that do not meet all requirements.

Contract Carriers: Business and General Guidelines

Contract carriers are private shipping businesses that can move firearms for dealers, manufacturers, or other licensed entities. They often have specialized experience and can arrange for extra security or insurance.

Some contract carriers work only with business licenses and do not accept firearms from individuals. If your business deals with large shipments, or needs custom delivery, contract carriers may negotiate special rates or terms.

They may also require you to fill out extra paperwork or provide proof of your federal license. If you are not a business, most contract carriers will refer you to UPS, FedEx, or USPS.

Check legal deadlines, insurance options, and whether the contract carrier is approved by federal law to move firearms between states. Always confirm the contract's terms before sending out any shipments.

Packing, Labeling, and Shipping Process

Shipping firearms across state lines requires attention to how you pack, label, and identify what can be shipped. Safety, accuracy, and legal compliance are essential.

Packing Firearms for Safe Transport

Use a sturdy, crush-resistant box to prevent damage during shipping. If possible, place your firearm inside a locked gun safe or hard case for extra security.

Make sure the firearm is unloaded and remove any ammunition from the package. Wrap the firearm securely with bubble wrap or soft materials to keep it from moving.

Double-check that all loose items, such as magazines or attachments, are stored separately inside the packaging. Seal the box with strong packing tape and inspect it for gaps or weak spots.

Before you ship, review any shipping carrier rules for packing firearms. Not all carriers accept firearms.

Only licensed shippers may send firearms with certain carriers like UPS. Private individuals may need to use a federal firearms licensee (FFL) when shipping.

Preparing an Accurate Shipping Label

When preparing your shipping label, do not mark or label the package in any way that reveals it contains a firearm. Labels should only display the name and address of the sender and recipient, as required by law.

Include a valid return address. In most cases, you may be required to include a copy of your driver's license or FFL information inside the package, especially if shipping to a dealer.

Double-check all information for accuracy. Mistakes on shipping labels can cause legal problems or delivery delays.

Ask your chosen carrier for their rules regarding firearm shipments. Requirements can vary.

Some carriers will only allow shipping to or from federally licensed dealers, and paperwork rules may differ. Failure to meet label requirements can result in refused shipments.

Mailable and Non-Mailable Items

Check both state and federal laws to confirm if your firearm or accessory is allowed in shipment. Following these rules is vital to avoid legal trouble and ensure safe delivery.

Moving Guns When Relocating

If you move to a new state, the rules for transporting or shipping your firearms may be different than if you are just traveling. You need to know both federal and state requirements to avoid problems.

Requirements for Individuals Changing Residence

If you are changing your state of residence, federal law lets you bring your lawfully owned firearms with you. You can usually transport your guns yourself.

Make sure all firearms are unloaded and packed securely. Handguns or certain restricted firearms are subject to more rules.

If you plan to ship a handgun, federal law requires that you use a licensed firearms dealer (FFL) in the state you are moving to. You should check with the receiving FFL for any state-specific rules.

Some moving companies may refuse to move guns, so ask them before you plan your move. If you ship your firearms to yourself, use methods approved by law.

Each state may have extra requirements or bans on certain types of firearms or magazines.

Considerations for Hunting Trips Across State Lines

Traveling for hunting is different than moving your home. You do not change your residency, but you still must follow laws in every state you enter.

Always unload your firearms and keep them locked in a case when crossing state lines. Many states allow transport of hunting rifles and shotguns, but handguns may have stricter rules.

When hunting out of state, you often need nonresident hunting licenses and may need to show proof of lawful possession of your firearm. Check local and federal laws before your trip.

Some states have bans on specific firearms, types of ammunition, or magazine capacities. Planning ahead reduces the risk of legal trouble while you enjoy your hunting trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What federal regulations apply to interstate firearm transport?

Federal law requires firearms shipped between states to be sent to a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), such as a licensed gun dealer, unless both the sender and recipient are licensed.

The Gun Control Act of 1968 is the main federal law covering this process. You cannot ship a handgun using the U.S. Postal Service unless you are a dealer or manufacturer with a license.

Long guns, like rifles or shotguns, have different rules and sometimes can be shipped in-state by non-licensees.

Are there special packaging requirements for shipping firearms safely?

Firearms must be unloaded before shipping. Use a hard, lockable case or sturdy box to prevent damage and unauthorized access.

Clearly label the package according to carrier rules, but don't mark that it contains a firearm on the outside for safety reasons. Shipping companies like UPS or FedEx may have extra requirements, so check their policies before sending any firearms.

How do state laws vary regarding the interstate shipment of firearms?

State laws can differ a lot. Some states have more restrictions about who can receive a firearm or what types of firearms are allowed.

Check both the shipping and receiving states' rules before sending a firearm across state lines. States may also have waiting periods, magazine limits, or bans on certain firearms.

What documentation is needed to ship a firearm to another state?

Usually, you need a copy of the recipient's FFL license. Some states might require permits or special forms to be included with the shipment.

Keep your own records of the shipment. This should include tracking details and copies of any paperwork used.

Can an individual directly ship a firearm or is an FFL required?

Generally, a private individual cannot ship a firearm directly to another individual in a different state. You must ship the firearm to an FFL holder, who will then transfer it to the buyer after completing a background check.

You may ship certain long guns to someone in your own state, but rules vary. Shipping a handgun almost always requires using a dealer or licensed carrier.

What are the liabilities and responsibilities when shipping a firearm to a recipient in another state?

You are responsible for making sure the recipient is legally allowed to own the firearm in their state.

Failing to follow federal or state laws can lead to criminal charges or fines.

If the firearm is lost, stolen, or misdelivered during shipping, you may be liable if you did not follow proper procedures or laws.

Always verify the recipient's information and documentation before shipping.