Do I have to tell FedEx I'm shipping a firearm?
Asked by: Gussie Goyette | Last update: July 17, 2026Score: 5/5 (66 votes)
Yes, you are strictly required to declare the firearm to FedEx.
Do I have to tell FedEx I am shipping a firearm?
Yes, federal law (18 USC 922(e)) requires you to notify FedEx in writing that a package contains a firearm. FedEx policy generally prohibits individuals (non-FFL holders) from shipping handguns, restricting shipments to only those holding a Federal Firearms License (FFL).
Do I need to declare a gun when shipping?
USPS Shipping Rules
The handgun must be shipped via USPS Priority Mail Express, and the package must be declared to the postmaster at the time of mailing. Non-licensees may ship rifles and shotguns (unloaded) through USPS to FFLs. Non-licensees may not ship handguns through USPS under any circumstances.
Does UPS or FedEx ship firearms?
Yes, but only if you are a licensed firearms dealer (FFL). Both UPS and FedEx have strict policies prohibiting non-licensed private individuals from shipping firearms.
Does the USPS check packages for guns?
Yes, the USPS uses security technologies—including high-speed X-ray machines, random sampling, and sniff dogs—to detect prohibited items, including illegally shipped firearms. While legal, unloaded long guns (rifles/shotguns) can be mailed, handguns are generally prohibited for non-licensees and must be declared.
FEDEX REFUSES TO SHIP REVOLUTIONARY GUN MAKING TOOL
Will USPS xray my package?
Is Mail X-Rayed? Some of the mail that is sent through the United States Postal Service will pass through an X-Ray machine. There are no specific guidelines as to what may or may not be x-rayed, though mail sent to or through larger cities is likely to pass through an X-Ray machine.
Can you ship a gun as a gift?
To do it by the book, the process requires you to ship the firearm to a federally licensed gun dealer (FFL) in the recipient's state of residence. From there, your giftee must meet with the FFL, fill out an ATF Firearms Transaction Record, and pass an NICS background check to receive the gun, according to the ATF.
What cannot be shipped through FedEx?
FedEx prohibits shipping illegal goods, hazardous materials (like explosives, gasoline, and fireworks), human remains, live animals, and cash. Firearms and certain weapons are also broadly prohibited for most consumer shippers, and restrictions apply to items like alcohol, tobacco, and CBD products.
What are the requirements for packaging a gun for shipping?
All Firearm Products must be shipped in new corrugated packaging that meets the UPS Single Wall Box Strength Guidelines. All Firearm Products must be packaged in accordance with UPS Packaging Guideline Specifications. Ammunition must be shipped separately from packages that contain Firearms.
Can I mail a handgun through the USPS?
Generally, no, private individuals cannot mail handguns through the USPS. As of mid-2026, handguns are largely prohibited for individuals, restricted primarily to licensed dealers (FFL) or law enforcement. While proposals are under consideration to allow broader mailing, current regulations require, in most cases, that handguns be shipped via common carrier, not USPS, by private citizens.
Can I mail my firearms to myself?
If you plan on hunting outside of your state, you may mail your certified firearm to yourself. The package must: Be Addressed to the owner. Include the “in the care of” endorsement immediately preceding the name of whoever will hold your weapon until you arrive.
Is it hard to ship a gun?
Packaging and shipping requirements
Firearms must be packed in a sturdy box or hard case with cushioning. Outer boxes can't have identifying markers. All shipments must include signature delivery. You have two options to choose from: Adult Signature Required (ASR) or Direct Signature Required (DSR).
How much does it usually cost to ship a firearm?
Shipping a handgun can be very expensive. In fact many shippers are surprised to find out that their recently sold firearm will cost them as much as $100 to get to their recipient. Ship My Gun offers fixed flat rates to the lower 48 states.
Do you have to declare a firearm when shipping?
When you ship/transfer a firearm to another California FFL, you must obtain a Firearms Shipment Approval number from DOJ. To obtain Firearms Shipment Approval numbers, you must enroll in the CFLC program. (Pen. Code, §§ 27555, 28450, and 28470.)
What happens if FedEx finds drugs in a package?
If a FedEx employee thinks your package looks suspicious, they can open it. And if they find drugs, they can call the DEA immediatly. This distinction matters enormously for your defense. If postal inspectors opened your USPS package without a proper warrant, thats a Fourth Amendment violation.
Do FedEx workers know what's in the package?
Yeah, FedEx drivers usually don't get specific details about their packages. They see labels and barcodes, but they won't know the exact contents unless it's obvious from the packaging. Their main job is to make sure that the right package gets to the right address safely and on time.
Do I have to tell UPS I'm shipping a firearm?
Yes, you are required by law and UPS policy to declare that you are shipping a firearm.
What is the most heavily armed state in America?
The answer depends on how you measure it:
Does ship my gun send you a box?
Shipping your gun through ShipMyGun.com is quick and easy! We send you a prepaid label and even a shipping box in some cases, and provide you all the information on where to drop off your package—all for one low price. We ship thousands of guns a year, so we can offer the best possible rates on firearm shipments!
Does FedEx Xray all packages?
No, FedEx does not X-ray every package. Due to the high volume of daily shipments, they utilize a risk-based approach rather than scanning all parcels, focusing on security for items traveling via aircraft. While not all packages are X-rayed, suspicious items, high-risk shipments, or those traveling on commercial airliners are more likely to be screened.
What will disqualify you from FedEx?
FedEx will typically disqualify you for recent felony convictions (especially theft, fraud, or violent crimes), a poor driving record (multiple DUIs or severe speeding), failed drug tests, or legal ineligibility to work in the U.S. Requirements depend heavily on the specific role you are applying for.
How do I know if I have to pay customs with FedEx?
If your package is coming from another country, you will likely need to pay customs duties and taxes. FedEx will notify you if fees are due, pay the charges to customs on your behalf to speed up delivery, and then collect that amount from you.
Can I ship my firearm to myself in another state?
Yes, you can ship your firearm to yourself in another state under federal law, provided it is for a lawful purpose (like hunting or a vacation) and the firearm is legal in the destination state.
What firearms can be shipped?
According to the USPS rulebook, people can currently mail long-barreled rifles and shotguns only if they are unloaded and securely packaged.
Can my dad just give me his gun?
Yes, a father can generally gift a firearm to their child, but it must be a bona fide (genuine) gift, and both must legally be allowed to possess it and reside in the same state. The recipient must not be a prohibited person, such as a felon, and the transfer must comply with state laws, which may require using a licensed dealer (FFL).