The world has become more internet-oriented, and more and more people prefer and have chosen to adapt to such life. This is seen as people no longer wanting to go purchase items from stores anymore. They’d prefer it to be brought to their doorsteps. Indeed, this saves time and prevents the stress associated with going to physical stores.
Many business owners and business-oriented people have noticed this trend and are finding more ways to ship their products directly to the recipients’ homes. This is no different from firearms businesses. It might be surprising to know that guns can be shipped and even delivered internationally, but yes! It’s true.
If you’re curious to know how to ship a firearm or would like to start a business out of this, this guide contains all the basic information you need to know. So, you should read this to the very end!
Guns and weapons are not exactly items to be carried around and shipped by any random person that wants to. These are dangerous items that could end lives, cause riots, and enhance conflicts. As a result, there is a long list of laws, rules, and regulations that a person interested in shipping firearms should follow.
How to Ship a Firearm
Step by step process
One of the many questions you’d probably be thinking of is whether or not you need a license for shipping a firearm.
The truth is, you may need to obtain what is called an FFL(Federal Firearms License) if you’d like to ship firearms to the US.
The FFL is obtained from the bureau of alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and explosives, commonly known as the ATF.
This license allows licensees to operate a firearms business recognized as legitimate, complies with the ATF, and is allowed to receive and ship weapons and firearms.
Who needs to have an FFL?
People who are dealers of firearms, importers, repair technicians, and manufacturers all need an FFL. However, you can ship firearms with or without an FFL
1. Shipping with an FFL
In the US, you can ship firearms to any state if you possess a current and valid FFL. If your recipient is outside your state, you need to make sure they also possess a valid FFL. After confirming this, only then can you ship guns to the address on the certificate.
You cannot ship firearms to someone who is a fugitive, a felon, mentally disturbed, convicted of domestic violence, uses a controlled substance illegally, people who have renounced their us citizenship, and a veteran who was dishonorably discharged.
You also need a current and valid FFL to ship firearms internationally.
2. Shipping without an FFL
People without valid FFL(non-licensees) can also ship guns but with restrictions. You can ship firearms to yourself if you’re “hunting or engaging in lawful activity.” Only you can take possession of the item. A non-licensee can ship to another non-licensee in the same state. However, depending on carrier service, you may not be allowed to ship some items, and you may be required to ship them through an FFL holder
3. Packaging for shipment
Some rules need to be followed as regards packaging, some of which include:
- Nobody needs to know what’s in your package, so, no labels!
- Use the right packaging material, e.g., bubble wrap, foam inserts.
- The firearm should not be loaded.
- Ammunitions need to be packaged separately.
Bottom Line
All these are the basic information needed to understand how shipping a firearm works. It could be somewhat complicated at first, but you’ll surely get the hang of it. If you’ve not started and you want to do a business out of firearms, it is worth the shot.
If you also don’t have an FFL and you feel like you may need help with the shipment, you can employ the services of an FFL holder. Above all, always ensure that every dealing with firearms is legal and your recipient is in the right mental state and authorized to use a firearm.
Overlooking this can bring a lot of harm to people in society.
