Shipping ammunition involves navigating strict regulations to ensure compliance and safety. This updated guide outlines the essential steps and considerations for legally shipping ammunition within the United States using carriers like FedEx and UPS.
Under federal law, it is illegal to send ammunition through USPS. Violating this law can result in significant penalties. Instead, private carriers authorized to handle hazardous materials, such as FedEx and UPS, must be used.
Basic Requirements
Carriers and Legal Considerations
- UPS and FedEx are the primary carriers. The USPS does not allow ammunition shipments.
- Ammunition must be shipped via ground services, as it is classified as hazardous material.
- Shipments are only allowed within the contiguous United States and certain areas in Alaska and Hawaii.
Packaging Guidelines
- Use sturdy packaging: Ammunition must be packaged in a new, strong outer container. Double-walled cardboard boxes are recommended.
- Internal packaging: Use partitions, internal boxes, or metal clips to prevent movement and protect the contents.
- Padding: Fill any voids with padding material to prevent the ammunition from rattling.
Labeling Requirements For Shipping Ammunition
Hazardous Material Label
- Limited Quantity Labels: Ammunition packages must be marked with black and white diamond-shaped labels indicating “Limited Quantity” on at least two opposite sides of the box.
Carrier-Specific Instructions for Shipping Ammunition
UPS
- Ground Shipping Only: Ammunition can only be shipped via UPS Ground.
- Drop-off Restrictions: Ammunition cannot be shipped via UPS Drop Boxes or third-party retailers like The UPS Store. It must be dropped off at a UPS Customer Center or picked up via a scheduled service.
FedEx
- Ground Shipping Only: Similar to UPS, FedEx only accepts ground shipments for ammunition.
- Drop-off Locations: Ammunition must be shipped from dedicated FedEx locations, not from FedEx Office or associated retail locations.
Legal Compliance
- Age Restrictions: The recipient must be at least 18 years old.
- State and Local Laws: Ensure compliance with all relevant laws at both the shipping and receiving locations. Some states have additional restrictions and requirements for shipping ammunition.
Prohibited Items
- Type Restrictions: Ammunition cannot exceed 12.7 mm for rifle or pistol cartridges or 8-gauge for shotgun shells.
- Excluded Types: Explosive, incendiary, tracer, and certain armor-piercing ammunition are prohibited from shipping.
Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping Ammunition
Adhering to legal and carrier-specific guidelines ensures safety and compliance when shipping ammunition. Follow these steps to securely package, label, and ship within the United States.
- Check Legalities:
Verify that you and the recipient are legally allowed to possess and ship ammunition.
- Package Securely:
Use a sturdy box with appropriate internal packaging to secure the ammunition.
- Label Correctly:
Apply “Limited Quantity” labels on two sides of the box.
- Choose the Right Carrier:
Drop off your package at an appropriate UPS or FedEx location.
- Verify Shipping Address:
Ensure the accuracy of the recipient’s address and compliance with local laws.
Useful Links for Carrier Policies
Ammunition Shipping FAQs
No, ammunition cannot be shipped internationally via UPS or FedEx.
Yes, you must declare that the package contains hazardous materials, specifically small arms ammunition.
No, ammunition must be shipped separately from firearms.
New, corrugated packaging that meets carrier guidelines is required. Internal padding and partitioning are necessary to secure the contents.
Yes, the package may not exceed 66 pounds (30 kg).
Generally, no special paperwork is needed beyond proper labeling and compliance with hazardous materials regulations.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your ammunition shipments are legal, safe, and compliant with current regulations. For more detailed information, refer to the specific guidelines provided by UPS and FedEx on their websites.
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