Many people purchase or sell guns online and ship them through the mail or delivery service. However, this process isn't as simple as boxing up the firearm and sending it on its way. It's essential to know how to properly package and ship a firearm to ensure the safety of all parties.

4 FAQ About Shipping a Gun

Where can I ship to? 

When shipping a gun out of state, firearms must be sent to Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealers or shops with Federal Firearms Licenses. According to the ATF, these locations or individuals are equipped and legally allowed to perform background checks and confirm identities.

How should I package it?

Every company has specific rules on which models they accept for shipment. For example, UPS won't send automatic firearms, while some companies require you to disclose that the package contains a gun. Look into your shipping company's specifics to ensure you're following the rules.

Before boxing up a handgun, remove any ammunition and turn on the safety. Bubblewrap the entire gun and tape it in place before putting the firearm in a cardboard box. Cover the weapon with packing peanuts or crumpled paper. Before mailing long guns like rifles or shotguns, place them in reinforced gun cases to protect their delicate barrels.

What paperwork do I need to complete?

Selling guns requires firearms transfers that indicate an ownership change from an FFL to a customer or from one person to another. Any firearms that cross state lines must be transferred through an FFL.

Illinois state government requires person-to-person firearms transfers to go through FFLs, and recipients must go through a waiting period of 72 hours for all handguns and long guns. 

What if the gun gets lost?

If a firearm does not arrive on time, contact the shipping company for details. If the gun is officially missing or was stolen while in-transit, notify the local law enforcement within 48 hours. Provide them with the serial number, package tracking number, and the name of the person or company who sent the package.

Immediately reporting the incident can help you avoid charges if the weapon is used to commit a crime. It will also be easier to retrieve the firearm if it resurfaces since you will have registered proof that it belongs to you and was stolen or lost during shipment.

If you’re interested in trying out or purchasing a firearm, contact Shooter's Firearms & Indoor Range in Columbia, IL. This one-stop-shop offers shooting competitions, in-state FFL transfers, trades, fingerprinting, and inspections. Call this Monroe County retailer and range at (618) 281-6393. Visit their website for information on their customized fittings to ensure the firearm fits your needs.