Shipping an air rifle

[JackF]

Is it legal to UPS an air rifle? Any notification/ acknowlegement of contents necessary? Suggestions gratefully received!

[Mike-I]

I hope so, I'm expecting a box tomorrow!

Yes sir, make sure you pack it very well. I'd remove any scope that may be mounted. Also, yes, I tell them the contents and I get insurance for the contents.

[Bullshooter]

Shipping an air rifle via ups is completely legal. I've heard negative stories about all three shippers and it seems to me that you take your chances no matter who you use. I don't volunteer any information of the contents but if asked, I tell them "it's a pneumatic pump" or "machined metal parts" or "sporting goods" and make sure to get the optional insurance for at least the amount to replace the gun and case. I have shipped several guns and I use a hard-shell gun case and two cardboard boxes, just like Straight Shooters does when they ship a gun out. In fact, I saved the boxes from my shipment from SS and reused them several times. I also purchased a $5.00 gun sock and placed the rifle in it before putting it in the gun case. Some people who work for shippers are not gun friendly and if they know the contents it could spell disaster for your new gun, so take that into consideration while at the shipping desk.

HTH,

Bullshooter

[KevinG]

It is entirely legal to ship airguns by any carrier. They are not considered firearms under Federal law therefore it's no different than shipping an ironing board. There are some agents at UPS that are either uninformed of their own rules or are anti-gun. When you run into them, ask for their supervisor immediately. We not only ship airguns UPS daily, but UPS picks up at the shop. We spend thousands of dollars in shipping with them every year. They know what we ship and have no problem with it whatsoever. Don't get snowed by some ignorant clerk with an attitude and an agenda.
Kevin
Straight Shooters

[Knobs]

Be aware that some resellers of shipping services will refuse air rifles if they know the contents of the package. The UPS counter at Staples is an example. I've been told it is the store policy and not the shippers policy.

Knobs

[Dead-On]

Also it is against USPS rules to ship an air pistol. Pistols of any kind are a no no for the USPS. Even starter and paintball pistols.That being said, many including I still do it. Another thing that all three don't like are presurized items. CO'2 and CF tanks ect are a no no.

[Mumpig]

I just say "sporting goods" and have never had a problem, even w/ UPS retailers.

[TAP]

I avoid the usual shipping problems with UPS and FEDEX shippers by subscribing to their online services where I package, measure, weigh and print out my own shipping label.
This way all I do is attach the shipping label and drop the box off at the nearest authorized UPS or FEDEX drop location.
No questions asked or delays and truly hassle-free.

[JackF]

Thanks everyone, much obliged!