[John Rogers]

Since the original poster gave no info I.E. is he sending or getting a firearm then there are some issues. If getting a gun, that requires a FFL then get one close by so you can talk with them, etc. If you are sending and you cross state lines then you need the FFL to be at the other end. If the other person is in CA then get the local or close by FFL to handle the in state transfer. If the gun in question CAN NOT use or be converted to use a cartridge such as a muzzle loader then no FFL is required in most cases, even CA although I am not sure about DC, NJ and some other places so again a close by FFL would know.