How to Ship Firearms via FedEx and UPS

Both FedEx and UPS require a Federal Firearms License (FFL) and a signed contract. If you do not have a license, you cannot ship a firearm through either carrier.

The Short Answer

Locked gun case being prepared for shipping at a service counter

You need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) and a signed carrier agreement.

Neither FedEx nor UPS accepts firearm shipments from unlicensed individuals. This is not a store policy — it is federal law. If you do not hold an FFL and have not signed a Firearms Shipping Compliance Agreement with the carrier, they will not accept your package.

FedEx Rules

Only FFL holders who have executed a FedEx Firearms Shipping Compliance Agreement may ship firearms
All ammunition must be removed from the firearm before packing
Firearm must be secured in a hard case inside a sturdy outer box with no identifying markings
Adult Signature Required (ASR) or Direct Signature Required (DSR) must be selected
Pre-packaged and pre-labeled firearms may be dropped at FedEx Office locations — staff cannot pack them or create labels for them
Ammunition may never be shipped from a FedEx Office or retail location

UPS Rules

Contract service only — requires an approved UPS Firearm Products agreement
Shipper must be a licensed importer, manufacturer, dealer, or collector (as defined in Title 18 U.S.C.)
Handguns require UPS Next Day Air services (Early, Air, or Air Saver)
No automatic weapons (including machine guns)
No international shipments of firearms or firearm parts
Firearms must bear a serial number complying with federal law
No identifying markings on outer box — labeling must be non-descriptive
Packaging must be new, single-wall corrugated meeting UPS strength guidelines
Ammunition must be shipped in a separate package from firearms

What About Ammunition?

Ammunition (cartridges, small arms) is regulated as a hazardous material. UPS accepts it as a "Limited Quantity" exception via UPS Ground only (within the 48 contiguous states). It cannot be dropped at The UPS Store, UPS Access Points, or drop boxes — only at UPS Customer Centers or through scheduled pickup. Ammunition is not accepted for international shipment.

Your Options as an Individual

If you do not have an FFL, here is what you can do:

Use a licensed firearms dealer. Many FFL holders can ship firearms on your behalf (transfer fees apply). Your local gun shop can help.
Check state laws. Some states allow private firearm transfers through licensed dealers only — know your local laws.
Travel with it. If you are transporting a firearm personally, check TSA rules for air travel or state reciprocity for vehicle transport.
What we can do: We can help pack and ship non-firearm items — boxes, fragile goods, documents, electronics, gifts. Stop by and we will take care of you.

We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. This information is for educational purposes and reflects carrier policies as we understand them. Laws vary by state and change frequently. Always consult the carrier directly and review applicable federal and state regulations before shipping regulated items.

Reference: FedEx official firearms shipping policy →

Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick answers to the most common questions about packaging, carriers, pricing, and what to expect.

Can I ship a firearm as a gift to a family member?

No — not through FedEx or UPS as an individual. The shipment must go from one FFL holder to another, or from an FFL holder to a licensed recipient. Some states allow person-to-person transfers through a dealer, but the carrier still requires a contract.

Can I ship a firearm for repair or gunsmith work?

Yes — but only if you use an FFL holder on both ends. Many gunsmiths and manufacturers hold FFLs and can provide you with a shipping label. The firearm must go through their account, not yours.

What about antique firearms?

Antique firearms (pre-1898 or replicas not designed for modern ammunition) may have different rules. Check with the carrier directly. However, most carriers still require an FFL shipper.

Can I ship firearm parts (barrels, scopes, grips)?

UPS distinguishes between "Firearms" and "Firearm Parts." Parts that do not meet the definition of a firearm (like scopes, stocks, grips) may ship under different rules. Receivers and frames are treated as firearms. Check carrier policies before shipping.