Can You Ship a Gun UPS or FedEx? Here’s What You Need to Know

Shipping a firearm isn’t as simple as packing it up and heading to your local FedEx or UPS store. There are strict federal laws, shipping carrier policies, and packaging rules involved, and not following them can land you in serious trouble.

Whether you’re sending a firearm to a licensed dealer, back to the manufacturer for repair, or selling one legally, this guide walks you through the dos and don’ts of shipping a gun using FedEx or UPS.

Can You Legally Ship a Gun?

Yes—in many cases, you can legally ship a firearm, but there are strict rules you must follow:

• Federal law requires all interstate firearm transfers to go through an FFL (Federal Firearms Licensee)

• Only FFL holders can ship firearms to non-FFLs

• Private individuals can only ship firearms to an FFL holder, not another private party

Important: You can’t just box up a gun and send it to your buddy in another state.

Shipping Firearms via UPS: What You Should Know

UPS does allow firearm shipments, but only under specific conditions.

🔹 Key UPS Rules for Firearm Shipping:

• Must be shipped from and to a licensed FFL (unless you’re the owner sending to a manufacturer or for repair)

• Handguns must go UPS Next Day Air

• Long guns can be shipped via UPS Ground

• UPS will only accept firearm shipments at staffed Customer Centers (not The UPS Store)

• Firearms must be unloaded and securely packaged

• The package cannot be labeled as containing a firearm

📌 UPS requires that you notify them you’re shipping a firearm—failure to do so is a violation of their terms.

 

Can You Ship Guns via USPS?

Short answer: only long guns, and only if you’re an FFL holder.

• Handguns may only be shipped through USPS by FFLs

• Non-licensees cannot legally use USPS to ship firearms

So if you’re not a dealer or manufacturer, USPS is likely not an option.

FedEx Firearm Shipping Policy

FedEx also allows firearm shipments, but their process is similar (and strict).

🔹 Key FedEx Firearm Shipping Rules:

• FedEx requires that you use FedEx Express (not Ground) for handguns

• Firearms must be shipped from and to licensed FFL holders

• Packages must be dropped off at a staffed FedEx location (not a FedEx Office or drop box)

• You must notify FedEx in person that the shipment contains a firearm

• FedEx does not accept shipments of firearms at retail stores

Do not attempt to ship a firearm via FedEx without calling ahead and verifying the process. Many local FedEx locations will refuse to accept them.

Obtain a box for your shipment. Fill the bottom of the box with packing material such as loose-fill peanuts or air-cellular cushion. Center the shipment inside the box and fill any empty spaces on all sides.

Using the H-taping method, apply pressure-sensitive adhesive plastic tape to both the top and bottom of the carton to protect the package and its contents. Tape all seams or flaps.

Summary Table: UPS vs. FedEx Firearm Shipping Rules

Requirement	UPS	FedEx
Can non-FFLs ship guns?	Yes (to FFLs only)	Yes (to FFLs only)
Handgun shipping method	Next Day Air	FedEx Express only
Long gun shipping method	Ground OK	FedEx Express recommended
Can use retail store locations?	❌ No (must use UPS Customer Center)	❌ No (must use FedEx Ship Center)
Must notify staff?	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
FFL required to receive shipment?	✅ Yes	✅ Yes

 

💡 Tips to Avoid Shipping Issues

Contact the FFL beforehand: Make sure they accept firearm shipments and ask for their license copy if needed.

Use discreet packaging: Never mark the box with “gun,” “firearm,” or the brand name.

Get tracking and insurance: Firearms can be expensive—make sure you cover your investment.

Keep your receipts: Save your shipment and FFL transfer documentation in case anything goes wrong.

Common Questions About Firearm Shipping

Q: Can I ship a gun to myself in another state?
A: Yes, but only if you are the legal owner and you’re shipping to yourself in care of an FFL. You still must comply with all local laws.

Q: Can I ship ammo with the gun?
A: No. Firearms and ammunition must be shipped separately by law and by carrier policy.

Q: Can I use The UPS Store or FedEx Office?
A: No. These retail outlets are not authorized to accept firearm shipments. Use a full-service hub.

Final Thoughts

Shipping a gun via FedEx or UPS is possible, but it’s not something to take lightly. If you’re not careful, you could violate company policies or federal law without realizing it.

Make sure you’re shipping to or from a licensed FFL, follow the carrier’s exact instructions, and always call ahead before showing up with a boxed firearm. With the right prep, the process is straightforward and safe.