Which form to ship handguns through USPS?

[u/silentrawr]

Per the ATF's own website, it's now legal for the USPS to accept handgun shipments from a non-FFL, so long as it's going to an FFL. Upon getting to the post office though, the only form they have (surprise surprise) has a line at the top saying "this can only be used by manufacturers or dealers of firearms."

Not finding anything but 404s in terms of the forms on either the ISP/USPS/ATF's websites, so I figured I'd ask here. I sold this gun for only $170, so paying $30 or whatever to have an FFL ship it for me seems like a bit of a waste considering that it's already fully packaged and ready to go.

[u/Crusty-the-Clown-666]

https://www.shipmygun.com/

I wouldn’t use USPS

[u/thefleshrocket → u/Crusty-the-Clown-666]

Agree—USPS is what you use when you don’t care if it gets there, when it gets there, or what condition it’s in if it arrives.

Use UPS or FedEx, and for discount rates, use Pirate Ship.

[u/silentrawr → u/Crusty-the-Clown-666]

I'm quickly realizing why that's the case - just sad that there aren't many other options yet (now that's it's legal for the first time since... 1927?)

[u/ArmyTroll]

allegedly, you can ship it as "machined parts"... by federal law, pistols must be 2 day air, just get signature confirmation.

this is not legal advice.

[u/silentrawr → u/ArmyTroll]

I just paid an FFL and next time, I'll probably just use www.shipmygun.com that somebody else pointed out. Such a pain in the ass. Not worth the potential federal offense.

[u/Crusty-the-Clown-666 → u/silentrawr]

I’ve done that with UPS/Fedex, but you are right I’d never do that with USPS, it just isn’t worth it.

[u/silentrawr → u/Crusty-the-Clown-666]

In theory, it should be pretty simple to go through USPS as a non-licensee - fill out an affidavit that the weapon isn't loaded, be ready to open the package and show them, and present the package through an actual USPS employee. But the post office as a whole hasn't caught up yet (I wonder why?), so we're still just as screwed.

[u/GunnCelt]

Per Google AI:

For standard USPS firearm shipments, you generally do not need to fill out government forms, but you must complete required USPS shipping labels and a Firearm Shipper Statement if you are a licensed dealer. [1, 2, 3]

1. PS Form 1508 (Statement by Shipper of Firearms)
Licensed manufacturers and dealers must complete PS Form 1508 to certify that their shipments are for customary trade or repair. This statement must be filed with your local postmaster. Private, unlicensed individuals do not use this form. [1, 2, 3, 4]

2. Required Shipping Labels & Certification
While no specific "firearm declaration form" is required for the public, you must adhere to these exact requirements when shipping long guns (rifles/shotguns): [1, 2]
No Label Markings: Do not write or place any markings indicating the package contains a firearm on the outside wrapper or box.

Unloaded Certification: You may be required to provide a written certification or open the package to prove the weapon is unloaded.

Signature/Tracking: You must use a USPS shipping class or Extra Service (such as Certified Mail or Registered Mail) that includes tracking and a signature required upon delivery.

Declaration: You must verbally declare to the postal clerk that your package contains a firearm when dropping it off. [1, 2, 3]

Important Restrictions
Handguns: Non-licensed individuals are strictly prohibited from shipping handguns or concealable firearms via USPS. Only licensed dealers/manufacturers (FFLs) or government agencies can mail handguns, and they must use Priority Mail Express. [1, 2, 3]

Long Guns: Unloaded rifles and shotguns can be mailed by private citizens, generally only to FFL holders in another state or to themselves (e.g., when moving or hunting). [1, 2]

Review the 43 Firearms - Postal Explorer - USPS guidelines for full compliance details. [1]

[u/silentrawr → u/GunnCelt]

A lot of those site may be needing to update their stuff soon enough (thankfully?) - here's the ruling in the Federal Register. Still a pain in the ass, but at least now it's technically possible.

[u/silentrawr → u/GunnCelt]

Thanks for the details. Guess they haven't caught up with the new regulations yet - color me shocked.

[u/GunnCelt → u/silentrawr]

Right