Can I Ship a Gun If I’m Not a Licensed Dealer?

Drew McDermott
Jul 17, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Nov 7, 2025

Firearms can become part of an estate, a downsizing decision, or a family handoff. But when it comes to shipping those guns, especially across state lines, the rules aren't just tricky, they're federally regulated. If you’re an executor, heir, or just helping a loved one manage a collection, this post walks through what you can (and can’t) do when shipping a firearm without a Federal Firearms License (FFL).

This guide is focused on private individuals handling firearms in estate or personal-sale scenarios, not businesses or dealers. MDRF Enterprises helps clients throughout the Greater Saint Louis area navigate these issues with clarity and legal compliance.

"If you just discovered a firearm during a property cleanout, read this guide."

Quick Answer: Yes, but only to a licensed dealer and only under specific rules.

Unlicensed individuals can ship a firearm, but only to a licensed dealer (FFL)—and never directly to another unlicensed person across state lines. If you're not an FFL yourself, you are legally limited in how you can package, label, and send a firearm.

Handguns cannot be shipped via USPS.
Long guns can be shipped via USPS, but only under federal conditions.
Private carriers (like UPS or FedEx) have stricter policies and often won’t accept firearm shipments from private individuals at all.

And remember: You cannot legally ship a firearm to someone in another state unless they’re a licensed dealer. That’s a federal felony.

More details on our Firearm FAQ page

See our Firearms and Probate Guide for Estate Professionals

Federal Firearm Shipping Laws: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re sending a family hunting rifle to your brother or trying to move inherited guns out of state, here’s the breakdown:

🔹 Handguns

USPS: Off limits to unlicensed persons.
FedEx/UPS: Often will not accept handguns from private individuals. If they do, it must be declared and labeled properly, with next day delivery.

🔹 Rifles and Shotguns

USPS: Permitted if shipped to an FFL. Must include a copy of your government-issued ID inside the package.
FedEx/UPS: Similar restrictions apply, and policies vary by location.

Pro Tip: If you're unsure about a recipient's license status, always request a copy of their FFL and verify it through the ATF’s FFL eZ Check system.

“Always verify shipping rules with the carrier directly—USPS Firearms Policy, FedEx Firearm Guidelines, and UPS Shipping Restrictions.”

What About Missouri Law?

Missouri doesn’t add any state-level restrictions on shipping firearms for unlicensed persons. That said, you’re still bound by federal law, and failing to follow it could lead to severe penalties, even if your intentions are good.

Inherited Guns and the Interstate Exception

Federal law does make an exception when a firearm is passed to a lawful heir by will or intestate succession. In this case:

The heir does not need to go through an FFL, even if they live in another state.
However, the firearm cannot be shipped to the heir directly. It must still go through an FFL in the recipient’s state.

"For more on executor roles during probate, read Executor’s Dilemma."

The heir may personally pick up the firearm from the location where it’s stored, or arrange transfer via a licensed dealer.

MDRF Enterprises can receive and transfer firearms on behalf of out-of-state heirs, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

What We Recommend

If you’re handling estate firearms or preparing to ship one to a buyer or heir, follow these tips:

Use a local FFL like MDRF Enterprises to manage shipping and transfer logistics.
Never ship directly to an unlicensed individual.
Always document the shipment—including sender/recipient info, FFL copy, and serial number.

"Our Estate Firearm Checklist covers everything from securing to shipping." Download: Firearms and Probate—A Guide for Estate Professionals

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Shipping a handgun through USPS—this is a federal crime if you're not an FFL.
Sending a gun directly to a buyer or heir out of state—all interstate transfers must involve an FFL.
Failing to declare the shipment properly with FedEx or UPS—which can lead to confiscation or criminal charges.

Closing Thought

Whether you’re settling an estate, helping a family member downsize, or just trying to do the right thing, firearm shipping is one area where guessing can get you in trouble. At MDRF Enterprises, we specialize in making these transfers easy, legal, and documented. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

“If you're not a licensed dealer, you can ship a gun—but only to an FFL, and never directly to a buyer or heir in another state.”