Even if a firearm qualifies for C&R, it still can't be shipped to a regular purchaser. The purchaser would need to have a C&R license at minimum to have it shipped directly to them, otherwise the item needs to be shipped to an FFL as normal still for it to be transferred to them. So to answer your question, yes C&R items from a retailer need to be shipped to an FFL still.

Thomas, unfortunately yes with Buds Sir. This has been posed to Buds before and they do not ship to C&R License holders. You can ask Buds Customer Service again in case their policy has changed at 1-859-368-0371 9am-9pm EST Mon-Fri. or use the Blue Chat now button at the bottom right corner 9am to 9pm Mon - Sat and 9am to 7pm Sunday.