Ship and receive firearms within Canada

    Firearms are a regulated product with specific delivery requirements. The sender needs to make sure the contents, packaging and labeling of their shipments follow all applicable municipal, provincial and federal regulations.

    Note that firearms cannot travel by air, therefore Xpresspost and Priority service are not permitted.

    For remote locations, see Air Stage offices listed in the Canada Postal Guide

    How do I ship firearms?

    Shipping requirements

    Canadians can send firearms to other adults of legal age. To send firearms, you must open a Solutions for Small Business account and create labels for shipping firearms using the online shipping tool Snap Ship.


    Canada Post has specific requirements for shipping Firearms - the customer is responsible for ensuring compliance.


    All firearms can only be shipped by Regular or Expedited Parcel and must include the Proof of Age option.


    View regulations for non-mailable matter.

    Packaging requirements

    • Be sure the firearm is not loaded.
    • Remove the bolt or bolt carrier from any firearm, if removable.
    • There can’t be any ammunition in the firearm or in the package. Bullets, cartridges and other ammunition are dangerous goods and cannot be shipped through the mail.
    • Attach a secure locking device to the firearm, such as a trigger lock or cable lock, so the firearm cannot be fired.
    • Lock the firearm in a sturdy, non-transparent container. For example, a firearms case secured with padlocks.
    • Use anonymous outer packaging without any markings or advertising that indicates what’s inside.

    As the customer, you are solely responsible for meeting all general requirements for parcel packaging and all Canadian Firearms Program regulations. It's also your responsibility to report missing or lost firearms to the police.

    How do I receive a firearms shipment?

    There are a few requirements that a receiver must follow when receiving firearms.

    Receiving from a licensed seller

    Proof of Age, an age verification process, and a signature are required upon delivery. The recipient may also be asked to provide government-issued photo ID if they appear to be less than 30 years of age. Provinces set the minimum age to purchase firearms.

    Receiving from an individual

    Proof of Age is required upon delivery. Canada Post will leave a Delivery Notice card at the recipient’s address, with instructions to go to the Post Office to complete the age validation process and pick up their item.
    View regulations for non-mailable matter