FFL Shipping Guide
How to Ship NFA Items Between Dealers
Shipping NFA items between FFLs requires a dedicated UPS firearms account, specific packaging, and an approved eForm 3 before the item leaves your hands. This guide covers everything you need to know.
For licensed FFL/SOT dealers only. This guide covers dealer-to-dealer NFA shipping. Individual buyers and sellers should coordinate with their FFL for shipping logistics.
Carrier Overview
UPS
RecommendedThe only viable carrier for shipping NFA items between FFLs.
UPS allows licensed FFLs to ship firearms (including NFA items) via UPS Ground with a dedicated firearms shipping account. Adult Signature Required and Direct Delivery Only are mandatory. UPS is the industry standard for FFL-to-FFL NFA transfers.
FedEx
BannedFedEx banned all firearm shipments from non-manufacturer FFLs.
As of 2023, FedEx updated their policy to prohibit firearm shipments by FFLs who are not manufacturers. This includes NFA items. Do not attempt to ship NFA items via FedEx — shipments will be seized and returned.
USPS
Not ViableUSPS prohibits mailing NFA firearms (suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, AOWs).
USPS regulations (39 CFR 233.31) prohibit mailing NFA firearms. While handguns can be mailed between FFLs via USPS, NFA items cannot. Do not attempt to ship suppressors, SBRs, or other NFA items through USPS.
Before Shipping
3 stepsThese steps must be completed before you create a shipment. The eForm 3 must be approved before the NFA item leaves the sending FFL's premises.
Exchange FFL/SOT Copies
The sending and receiving FFLs must exchange copies of their Federal Firearms License and Special Occupational Tax (SOT) documentation before any NFA item is shipped. This verifies both parties are properly licensed to possess NFA items.
- Email or fax copies of your FFL and SOT to the other dealer
- Verify the license is current and not expired
- Keep copies on file for your records and ATF compliance
File eForm 3 (Dealer-to-Dealer Transfer)
Before shipping, the sending FFL must file an ATF eForm 3 (Application for Tax-Exempt Transfer of Firearm and Registration to Special Occupational Taxpayer). This is the tax-exempt dealer-to-dealer transfer form — not to be confused with the Form 4 (dealer-to-individual).
- File at eforms.atf.gov — both FFLs certify electronically
- eForm 3 approvals are typically same-day or within a few days
- The item should NOT ship until the eForm 3 is approved
Wait for eForm 3 Approval
Do not ship the item until the eForm 3 has been approved by the ATF. eForm 3 approvals are fast — usually same-day, sometimes 1-3 business days. Once approved, the receiving FFL is legally authorized to take possession.
- Check status at eforms.atf.gov
- Do NOT ship before approval — the item is not legally transferable yet
- Once approved, you can proceed with creating the shipment
UPS Account Setup
One-time setup — you only need to do this once
Go to the UPS Firearms Shipping Portal
Visit ups.com/firearms (or contact your UPS account rep) to begin the application for a dedicated firearms shipping account. This is a separate account from a standard UPS business account.
- You cannot ship firearms from a standard UPS account
- Each FFL location needs its own firearms shipping account
Submit Your FFL + Signed Agreement
Upload a copy of your current FFL and sign the UPS Firearms Shipping Agreement. This agreement outlines the terms, packaging requirements, and liability provisions specific to firearms shipments.
- Ensure your FFL is current and clearly legible
- Read the agreement carefully — it covers insurance limits and liability
- SOT documentation may also be required for NFA items
Wait for UPS Approval
UPS will review your application and FFL documentation. Approval typically takes 5-10 business days. Once approved, you'll receive credentials for your dedicated firearms shipping account.
- Follow up if you haven't heard back within 2 weeks
- Once approved, save your account credentials securely
- This is a one-time setup — you won't need to repeat it for each shipment
Creating the Shipment
4 stepsLog In to Your Dedicated Firearms Account
Sign in to UPS using your approved firearms shipping account credentials. Do not use a standard UPS account — firearms shipments must originate from the dedicated account.
- Bookmark your firearms account login for easy access
- If you've forgotten your credentials, contact your UPS firearms account rep
Create a New Shipment
Enter the receiving FFL's business address as the destination. Use the FFL's physical business address — not a P.O. box. Ensure the name and address match the receiving FFL's license.
- Double-check the receiving FFL's address against their license copy
- Include the FFL's business name and contact person
Select UPS Ground + Required Options
Select UPS Ground as the shipping method. You must add Adult Signature Required and Direct Delivery Only. These are mandatory for all firearms shipments via UPS.
- UPS Ground only — Next Day Air and other express services are not available for firearms
- Adult Signature Required ensures a licensed adult signs for the package
- Direct Delivery Only prevents the package from being held at a UPS Access Point or redirected
Print Your Label
Print the shipping label and affix it securely to the outer box. Do not include any markings indicating the contents are firearms or NFA items.
- No markings, stickers, or labels indicating firearms inside
- Ensure the label is flat, unobstructed, and scannable
- Keep the tracking number for your records and share it with the receiving FFL
Packaging Requirements
4 stepsUnload the Firearm
Ensure the NFA item is completely unloaded before packaging. Remove all ammunition. For suppressors, ensure it is detached from any host firearm.
- Double-check the chamber and magazine (if applicable)
- Do not include ammunition in the same package
Use Original Case with Padding
Place the item in its original case or a hard-sided case with foam padding. The item should not move or shift inside the case. Wrap the case in bubble wrap or additional padding.
- If you don't have the original case, use a hard-sided pistol case or foam-lined container
- Fill any gaps with foam, packing peanuts, or bubble wrap
- The item should pass the "shake test" — no rattling or movement
Plain Outer Box — No Markings
Place the padded case inside a plain, unmarked cardboard box. Do not use manufacturer-branded boxes or any packaging that indicates the contents are firearms or NFA items.
- Use a sturdy corrugated box — double-walled is preferred
- Remove or cover any old shipping labels or markings on the box
- No text, logos, or stickers indicating firearms, suppressors, or NFA items
Include Documents Inside the Box
Include copies of both the sending and receiving FFL/SOT licenses, plus the approved eForm 3, inside the box. This allows the receiving FFL to verify the transfer is legitimate upon receipt.
- Place documents in a sealed envelope on top of the item
- Include your contact information in case of questions
- A printed copy of the approved eForm 3 confirmation is recommended
Drop-off & Pickup
Allowed
- UPS Customer Center (staffed hub facility)
- Scheduled UPS pickup from your FFL location
NOT Allowed
- UPS Store (franchise — not authorized for firearms)
- UPS drop boxes
- Third-party shipping centers
Pro Tip: Prepaid Return Labels
The receiving FFL can generate a prepaid UPS shipping label from their own firearms account and email it to the sending FFL. This is especially useful when the sending dealer doesn't have a UPS firearms account set up, or for one-off transfers. The receiving dealer covers the shipping cost upfront and can fold it into their transfer fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about shipping NFA items between FFL dealers.
UPS Ground transit times are typically 3-7 business days depending on distance. There is no expedited option for firearms — UPS Ground is the only service available. Plan accordingly and communicate the expected delivery window to the receiving FFL.
Yes, strongly recommended. UPS includes $100 of declared value coverage by default, but NFA items are typically worth $300-$2,000+. Declare the full value of the item and pay for additional coverage. The cost is minimal compared to the replacement value.
Yes, the shipping process is identical for all NFA items — suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs. The same UPS firearms account, packaging rules, and eForm 3 requirements apply to all NFA categories. The only difference may be packaging size and weight.
No. Firearms shipments must be dropped off at a UPS Customer Center (staffed hub facility) or picked up via a scheduled UPS pickup. UPS Store locations and drop boxes are not authorized for firearms shipments. The UPS Store is a franchise operation — they are not equipped to handle firearms.
Yes, and this is actually a pro tip. The receiving FFL can create a prepaid UPS shipping label from their own firearms account and email it to the sending FFL. This saves the sending FFL from needing their own UPS firearms account — useful for one-off transfers or smaller dealers.
If it's been more than 2 weeks, call your UPS account representative or the UPS firearms shipping support line. You can also ask the receiving FFL to generate a prepaid label from their account as an alternative while you wait for approval.
No. The eForm 3 should be filed and approved before shipping, but you include a printed copy of the approved eForm 3 inside the box with the item. The receiving FFL can also verify approval status electronically through eForms.
File a claim with UPS immediately. This is why declaring the full value and purchasing coverage is critical. Contact the receiving FFL and the ATF NFA Branch (304-616-4500) to report the situation. Lost NFA items must be reported to the ATF.
Need to find a transfer dealer?
Browse StampSwap's partner dealer directory to find FFL/SOT dealers in your area who accept NFA transfers, or learn more about the Form 4 process.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general informational guidance for licensed FFL/SOT dealers and does not constitute legal advice. Shipping regulations, carrier policies, and ATF requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with UPS and the ATF before shipping NFA items.
StampSwap is not an FFL, does not take possession of NFA items, and does not ship firearms on behalf of users. All shipping is the responsibility of the licensed FFL/SOT dealers involved in the transfer.