The sands shift, so answers may not be correct for along time but:
If you want a gun sent to the USA or anywhere else, it is MUCH easier for all concerned if you have a gun dealer (FFL in the US) to receive it for you.
I use an agent here who does a lot of this and therefre keeps abrest of shippers, rates, changes in procedures, rules etc.He won't spill the beans on exactly what he does or what tricks he is using to get things done fast - because it is his business and in this case 'knowledge is money'.
In the UK you need to apply for an export licence to export a firearm whatever its age. There are no 'exempt' old guns in UK law except those on the obsolete calibre list (for example a .500/450 BPE rifle. another example-any 12-bore is legally a shotgun and subject to firearms legislation, regardless of age.
A UK gun dealer can bring a gun to the Vintagers, as long as all the paperwork is done in advance. with pre 1897 guns this is easier because once he arrives in the USA, his RFD ifrom the UK is invalid, but the pre 1897 gun is considered 'antique' in the states and a licence there is not required.If the gun is considered afirearm in the US, someone with authority to possess the firearm would have to be there to take possession of it at the airport.
Whoever youare working for, you still have to negotiate the legislative requirements of the exporting country and the importing requirements of the other.
