How to Cerakote Your Firearm: A Guide to Shipping Safely and Legally

How to Cerakote Your Firearm: A Guide to Shipping Safely and Legally

If you’re wondering how to Cerakote your firearm and ensure safe and legal shipping, Spectrum Coating Enterprises has the answers. As a certified Cerakote applicator holding a Type 7 Federal Firearms License (FFL), we streamline the process for firearm owners across the country. Whether you’re shipping from out of state or visiting our Cocoa, Florida location, our detailed guide will help you navigate shipping requirements with ease.

Understanding Federal Firearms Licenses (FFLs)

There are nine distinct types of Federal Firearms Licenses (FFLs) available for handling firearms. Among them are Dealer/Gunsmith (FFL Type 1) and Importer/Dealer of Firearms (FFL Type 8). These licenses ensure that businesses working on serialized firearm components have the proper credentials. As a certified Cerakote applicator, Spectrum Coatings holds a Type 7 FFL, which allows us to buy, sell, repair, assemble, and handle firearms legally. Our license also permits customers to ship firearms directly to our facility.

Located in Cocoa, our shop is convenient for gun owners in Central Florida and beyond. Whether you’re local or shipping from out of state, our team is familiar with the regulations governing firearm shipping, ensuring a seamless and compliant process.

Shipping Guidelines for Rifles and Shotguns

Unloaded rifles and shotguns can be shipped as long as they comply with 27 CFR, Part 478 and your state and local laws. Long guns can be mailed via USPS, UPS, or FedEx under the following conditions:

  • The package must have a "Return Service Requested" endorsement.
  • Use Priority Mail with a signature required upon delivery.
  • Insure the package for more than $200 and include tracking.
  • Short-barreled rifles or shotguns that are concealable cannot be mailed through USPS.

Shipping Guidelines for Handguns

Handguns and their parts are subject to stricter regulations. Frames, receivers, and regulated components cannot be mailed via USPS unless sent to a shop with an FFL. For private individuals, UPS and FedEx offer the most reliable options, requiring next-day or second-day air service. Key points to remember:

  • Ensure the handgun is unloaded and contains no ammunition.
  • Insure your package for the replacement value and request delivery confirmation.
  • UPS does not accept automatic weapons, but FedEx and FedEx Ground will ship them, although they may limit insurance coverage to $1,000.

Shipping Your Firearm to Spectrum Coatings

At Spectrum Coatings, we strive to make the shipping process straightforward. Follow these tips to ensure your firearm arrives safely and legally:

  • Include a copy of our FFL license, which we can email, fax, or mail to you.
  • Use a double-boxing method: place your firearm in one box, then place that box inside a larger corrugated box.
  • Choose new, high-quality boxes and pack with bubble wrap or custom foam inserts.
  • Wrap components separately to prevent damage during transit.
  • Include a photocopy of your state-issued ID and contact information inside the package.
  • Insure the package for its full replacement value.
  • Ensure nothing on the outside of the box indicates its contents.
  • Ship the package from a main facility and notify the service clerk of its firearm contents.

Important Legal Considerations

Federal, state, and local laws governing firearm shipping can be complex and subject to change. While this guide simplifies the process, always verify the latest regulations with your carrier and local authorities before shipping. Our team at Spectrum Coatings is available to answer any questions and provide guidance throughout your project.

If you have questions about how to Cerakote your firearm or shipping requirements, contact Spectrum Coatings today. We’re here to help you protect your firearm and ensure compliance with all applicable laws.