Can i mail ship a firearm to myself

In the United States, it is generally legal to mail or ship a firearm to yourself, but there are some important considerations and restrictions to be aware of:

  1. Federal Law: The Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 prohibits the shipment of firearms across state lines without proper documentation and compliance with federal regulations. Specifically, 18 U.S.C. § 922(a)(5) states that it is illegal to transport or ship a firearm in interstate commerce without a valid Federal Firearms License (FFL) or a written order from a licensed dealer.
  2. State Laws: Some states have their own laws and regulations regarding the shipment of firearms within their borders. For example, some states may require a permit or license to possess a firearm, or may have specific requirements for the transportation of firearms.
  3. FFL Requirements: To legally ship a firearm to yourself, you will need to use a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder, such as a licensed firearms dealer or a gunsmith. The FFL holder will need to receive the firearm and then transfer it to you, after verifying your identity and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.
  4. Background Check: When shipping a firearm to yourself, you will need to undergo a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This check is typically conducted by the FFL holder or a licensed dealer.
  5. Proper Packaging and Labeling: When shipping a firearm, it is essential to properly package and label the package to ensure it is not damaged during transit and to comply with federal regulations. The package should be clearly labeled as containing a firearm and should include a copy of the FFL holder's license and a written order from the licensed dealer.

To ship a firearm to yourself, you should:

  1. Find a licensed FFL holder in your area who is willing to receive and transfer the firearm to you.
  2. Ensure you have a valid government-issued ID and proof of residency.
  3. Complete the necessary paperwork, including a Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) and a written order from the licensed dealer.
  4. Pay any applicable fees, such as a transfer fee or background check fee.
  5. Wait for the FFL holder to conduct a background check and verify your identity.
  6. Once the background check is complete, the FFL holder will transfer the firearm to you.

Remember to always follow federal and state laws, as well as any local regulations, when shipping a firearm to yourself. It is also important to ensure that you are legally allowed to possess a firearm in your state and that you are not prohibited from owning a firearm due to a criminal record or other factors.