Bravo Store Systems · Free Compliance Toolkit

The FFL Firearms Shipping Compliance Checklist

Every step for shipping a firearm legally, from verifying the receiving license to logging the disposition, so a routine shipment never becomes a violation.

FFL Carrier rules Print in shipping

Most shipping violations are not exotic. They come from skipping a license verification, using the wrong carrier service, or forgetting to log the disposition. This checklist walks the full path so every shipment leaves clean.

Section 1 of 3

Before it ships

  • You have a signed copy of the receiving FFL’s license on file before shipping. Shipping to an unverified party is the most common shipping finding.
  • The receiving license is current and covers the item being shipped. Check the expiration date and license type, not just that a copy exists.
  • The destination matches the licensed premises or an approved address. Do not ship to an address that is not on or approved against the license.
Section 2 of 3

Carrier & packaging

  • Handguns ship by common or contract carrier only, never USPS, unless you hold the required authorization. Long guns may go USPS; handguns generally may not.
  • The outside of the package gives no indication that it contains a firearm. Required by carrier rules and basic loss prevention.
  • You have notified the carrier that the package contains a firearm where their policy requires it. Carrier policies differ; follow the one you are actually using.
Section 3 of 3

Records

  • The disposition is recorded in your A&D book with the receiving FFL’s name, license number, and address. 27 CFR 478.125(e). Log it the same day it leaves.
  • Tracking and the signed license copy are retained with the transaction record. Proof of where it went and to whom protects you if it is ever traced.
  • Returns and repairs are logged on the same acquisition-and-disposition basis. A firearm out for repair still has to be accounted for on paper.
Tip: the single highest-value habit is verifying the receiving license before anything is packed. Everything downstream depends on it, and it is the step most often skipped under deadline pressure.

Want shipments logged to your A&D book automatically?

Bravo records every outbound shipment to your digital A&D book with the receiving FFL on file, so the disposition is never the thing you forgot. See it in a short demo.

Book a demo Or call us at (888) 407-6287. More resources at bravostoresystems.com/compliance.