>$80 to ship a stripped receiver for anodizing? What am I doing wrong?

[kcstott]

Incorrect:
As soon as the part is capable of accepting other parts it is a firearm in the eyes of the DOJ. A stripped lower is a firearm just as a completed 80% lower is as well, serial number or not.

The DOJ is very clear on this topic.
The issue is the 80% lower is now complete and is 100% a firearm.

[kcstott]

Just the same as a AK flat that is folded becomes a firearm the second the bend is complete.

[Intimid8tor]

Also, I believe US anodizing requires lowers received to be serialized as they are entered in their bound book.

[Akers]

If your in San Diego, there are two shops down here that do great TypeIII work and you don't have to bother with shipping or an FFL.

Send me a PM if your still in the market. One is So Cal plating, but you will pay a tad more if you don't get a few guys to go in with you. They don't do piece work, but rather bulk. There is also another one in KM that does good work and will do piece work. I have six that have been done here in SD. I work in La Jolla so if you want to see one you can stop by and take a look at the work.

[rareair]

Try sending it USPS, not UPS. The Postal Service has Next Day service, as well as 2-3 day Priority. Both options are under $20, a lot less than the comparable $80 you state that UPS is charging.
When you ship via USPS, you must fill out PS Form 1508

[Ryan in SD]

face palm

[tujungatoes]

There is a LOT of fail in this thread. All the idiots telling the op to not declare or misrepresent his firearm are actually encouraging him to commit a federal offence.

The ATF specifically states "Federal law requires that the carrier be notified that the shipment contains a firearm"

It's not some obscure bit of law. It's on their f**king website for christ sake!