Can you ship an airsoft gun?

Usually yes, within the United States, but it takes more care than a normal package. Federal law requires a blaze orange tip on airsoft guns that are shipped, the Postal Service has its own rules for air guns, and carriers and drop-off stores can turn away a package that looks like it holds a gun.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so check the sources linked below before you ship. Last checked September 2026.

The orange tip

Federal law makes it unlawful to ship, transport, or receive a toy, look-alike, or imitation firearm, and it names airsoft guns, unless it has a blaze orange plug permanently fixed in the barrel, recessed no more than 6 millimeters from the muzzle. See 15 U.S.C. ยง 5001.

The Postal Service

USPS rules say air guns, including airsoft, aren't regulated as firearms unless they're built on the frame or receiver of a real firearm, and that they can be mailed. A few conditions apply:

  • A gun that shoots 400 feet per second or more needs Adult Signature service.
  • Compressed gas in the package has to follow the hazardous materials rules, so ship gas mags and HPA tanks empty unless you've checked those rules.
  • The sender is responsible for following state and local law.

See USPS Publication 52, section 431.7, Air Guns, and section 432, Mailability.

Private carriers

UPS, FedEx, and others set their own rules, and they change. UPS, for example, doesn't accept replica firearms for international shipment except under a contract. Franchise stores and drop-off points may refuse anything that looks like a gun, even when the carrier allows it. Check with the carrier, or take it to a staffed carrier location, before you pack it.

State and local law

Some states and cities have their own rules about selling, carrying, or receiving replica guns. Check the rules where you live and where the buyer lives.

Or skip the box

If the buyer plays near you, meeting at the field avoids all of this. They can test it before paying, and there's no shipping cost or damage in transit. Find airsoft fields by state, or read how to sell a used airsoft gun locally.