What is the cause for special handling requirements when shipping firearms?

The special handling requirements when shipping firearms are primarily due to legal restrictions. Firearms are heavily regulated items in many jurisdictions, and shipping them involves compliance with a variety of federal, state, and local laws. This includes ensuring that the shipping methods and carriers used are approved for such items to prevent illegal transportation and ensure safety.

Legal regulations mandate specific protocols, such as labeling and documentation requirements, age restrictions for shipments, and sometimes even the need for special permits. These measures are implemented to prevent misuse and to ensure that firearms are handled responsibly throughout the entire shipping process.

In contrast, while weight, value, or fragility might influence shipping decisions in general, they do not specifically justify the stringent regulatory framework that governs firearms transport. Legal compliance is a foundational aspect of shipping firearms safely and legally.