Shipping Restrictions

Why We Ship via UPS (No USPS Shipments)

Federal Shipping Restrictions: We exclusively use UPS (or other private carriers) for orders containing lockpicking or tactical entry tools. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is federally prohibited from carrying “locksmithing devices” in regular mail. Under federal law (39 U.S.C. §3002a), any lockpick, slim jim, bump key, or similar tool used to bypass locks is classified as **“nonmailable matter”**. In simple terms, it is illegal to send lockpicking tools through USPS unless the shipment is going to certain exempt recipients (like a lock manufacturer, bona fide locksmith, repossessor, or vehicle dealer). If someone tries to mail these items without meeting an exemption, the postal service can seize the package and the sender may face penalties.

Because of these strict postal rules, Dark Wolf Tactical does not use USPS for any orders containing lockpicking or covert entry tools. All such orders are shipped via UPS Ground or another private courier. This policy is in place to ensure compliance with federal regulations and to make sure your order isn’t confiscated in transit. UPS is our carrier of choice since it allows the shipment of these items and provides tracking and age verification if needed. We also may require an adult signature upon delivery for these tool orders, to ensure they reach the intended responsible recipient.

(Note: Federal law (18 U.S.C. §1716A) also extends the non-mailability rule to private carriers, prohibiting shipping of locksmith devices in interstate commerce except to the authorized recipients listed in 39 U.S.C. 3002a. In practice, hobbyist and retail sales are carried out via private carriers like UPS without incident. Dark Wolf Tactical operates under the assumption that our customers are bona fide locksmiths, lock sport enthusiasts, or otherwise lawful users. By limiting shipping to UPS and verifying buyer credentials in restricted areas, we exercise due diligence to comply with the spirit of these laws.)

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