Moving with Firearms: A Guide for Gun Owners

Transporting firearms during a move comes with serious legal, safety, and logistical considerations. Whether you’re relocating across state lines or to a new country, understanding the laws and best practices can help protect your rights, your property, and the people around you. In this guide, we’ll break down what gun owners need to know before moving, including compliance with federal and state regulations, safe transport methods, overlooked legal details, and proper post-move firearm storage.

Understand Federal and State Gun Transport Laws

Under the Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA), you’re allowed to transport firearms across state lines if they are unloaded and not readily accessible during travel, typically in a locked container separate from the passenger area. This protects lawful gun owners traveling between places where they may legally possess firearms.

“A common question that comes up for people moving is related to the transportation of firearms. Under the Federal Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA), individuals moving states with guns are allowed to transport them across state lines under two conditions: they are unloaded and not easily accessible. Essentially, the law states someone can transport a firearm to and from any place where they can lawfully possess it,” said Min Hwan Ahn, attorney for the Law Offices of Ahn & Sinowitz.

“Although FOPA provides a basic framework, it’s important to remember that each state has its laws and regulations regarding firearm transportation,” he said. “In some states, additional permits or licenses may be required, while others may have specific restrictions on the types of firearms that can be transported.”

However, every state (and many cities) has its firearm transport laws, and FOPA doesn’t override more restrictive local laws once you arrive. Some states require specific permits or prohibit certain firearm types altogether.

Also consider:

• Permit reciprocity: Just because your concealed carry permit is valid in one state doesn’t mean it’s recognized in another.
• Magazine capacity restrictions: Many states (including New Jersey and Colorado) limit the size of magazines, even for otherwise legal firearms.
• Transportation through restrictive states: In some cases, simply passing through with a firearm (even legally) may result in legal complications if you’re stopped.

Tip: Research the gun laws in every state you plan to travel through, not just your starting point and destination. You’re allowed to transport firearms across state lines if they are unloaded and not readily accessible during travel, typically in a locked container separate from the passenger area. This protects lawful gun owners traveling between places where they may legally possess firearms.

Check Firearm Legality in Your New State or Country

Before you move, confirm that all of your firearms are legal in your new location. States like California and New York have restrictions on “assault weapons,” threaded barrels, and high-capacity magazines. Some also restrict specific calibers or implement unique rules about how firearms must be modified or stored. Countries outside the U.S. may ban civilian firearm ownership altogether or require extensive paperwork for temporary or permanent importation.

If your firearms don’t comply with local law, you may need to sell, modify, or store them elsewhere before relocating. In some cases, gun owners may need to surrender specific components, such as flash suppressors or folding stocks, or register items within a strict timeframe upon arriving in a new state.

Be sure to:

• Review banned firearm lists by name and feature.
• Understand if your accessories (e.g., suppressors, pistol braces, folding stocks) are allowed or restricted.
• Determine whether your state requires firearm registration upon arrival and what deadlines apply.
• Check if magazine limits or caliber restrictions apply to your firearms.

Consult a Licensed Firearms Dealer or Attorney

Some moves may require you to transfer ownership, undergo background checks, or follow special procedures for legally relocating firearms. A Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer can help you comply with these requirements by handling legal transfers, assisting with shipments, and ensuring all state-specific rules are followed.

If you plan to ship a firearm across state lines, using an FFL is not only wise—it may be mandatory depending on the carrier. For example, major shippers like FedEx and UPS have their policies requiring FFL-to-FFL transfers. USPS, on the other hand, only allows firearm shipments from licensees to other licensees under specific conditions.

Take time to confirm that the FFL dealer you’re working with understands both your origin and destination state laws—this can help avoid costly mistakes or delays. Before initiating any transfer, ask about fees and which forms of identification or documentation you’ll be expected to provide. If you’re gifting a firearm to a family member or moving one into their home, remember that some states still require a formal transfer or background check, even among relatives. Keep thorough records of all communications, transfer receipts, and approvals in case questions arise after the move or during a future legal review.

Pro tip: When in doubt, consult a firearms attorney who understands both federal and local laws. They can help you avoid costly legal issues, ensure you’re not inadvertently violating transfer or registration laws, and provide guidance if you’re moving to a state with drastically different gun laws.

Secure Firearms in a Locked Container During Transport

How you physically transport your firearms during a move matters just as much as knowing the laws. Federal guidelines require firearms to be unloaded and inaccessible, but what that looks like in practice depends on your route, method of travel, and even which moving services you use. This section walks through secure firearm storage during transport and includes a breakdown of how specific states handle gun transportation to help you plan with confidence.

State-by-State Firearm Transport Laws Overview

While federal law provides a basic framework, state-specific requirements vary. Below is a general reference chart for transporting firearms across several U.S. states. Always double-check each state’s official website before you travel.

This chart is not exhaustive. Always verify current laws before your move.

To remain compliant with federal law and ensure safety during your move:

• Unload all firearms before transporting.
• Store them in a locked, hard-sided container (not a glovebox or console).
• Keep the container in the trunk or rear cargo area of your vehicle.

Attorney Martin Gasparian notes that laws like 18 U.S. Code § 926A (Peaceable Journey Act) require guns to be inaccessible and not in plain sight. “Firearms are to be transported in a locked container in the trunk of a vehicle, or if there is no trunk, in a locked container out of plain sight in the vehicle,” said Fran Haasch, founding attorney for The Fran Haasch Law Group. “In Texas, firearms can be transported openly or concealed in a vehicle, as long as they are not in plain view,” said Fran Haasch.

Also:

• Label your containers clearly if traveling through states that permit it, but avoid markings that draw unnecessary attention.
• Do not store firearms in roof racks or external storage pods, as these may not qualify as secure containers.

Reminder: “Moving companies are also expected to have a Motor Carrier Permit from the California Highway Patrol to transport firearms,” said Fran Haasch. In general, moving companies are typically not allowed to transport firearms unless they hold a valid FFL and meet state-specific transportation requirements.

Do Not Move Ammunition with Your Household Goods

Unlike firearms, ammunition is considered hazardous material under DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). Most moving companies won’t allow you to pack or transport ammunition due to fire risk, potential liability, and insurance restrictions.

Instead, consider transporting ammunition yourself in a secure, climate-stable vehicle or leaving it behind entirely. Ammo should always be stored separately from firearms and kept in a fireproof, labeled container during the move. If you’re flying or shipping items, confirm with your airline or carrier, as many do not allow ammunition or only allow it under strict packaging guidelines.

Additionally, consider your destination’s rules—some states have limits on how much ammo you can transport or require specific packaging and documentation.

If you have expired, surplus, or questionable rounds, dispose of them through a local gun range, law enforcement department, or hazardous waste program before moving.

“In 2012, a moving truck carrying ammunition caught fire on a highway in Ohio. The fire caused the ammunition to explode, leading to a series of explosions that lasted for several hours and forced the closure of the highway. It serves as a reminder of the potential risks involved in transporting ammunition,” said Fran Haasch, founding attorney for The Fran Haasch Law Group.

Declare Firearms for International Moves

Transporting firearms internationally is often more complicated than moving them within the U.S. If you’re moving abroad, you’ll need to declare your firearms at customs, and in many cases, you’ll face a completely different set of laws and cultural expectations around gun ownership. Unlike in the U.S., some countries ban civilian firearms altogether, while others allow them under strict regulation. Ignoring these rules can lead to serious consequences, including confiscation, fines, or arrest.

To prepare:

• Research country-specific import laws, including what types of firearms (if any) are allowed.
• Apply for permits or licenses well before your move date—some applications can take weeks or months.
• Confirm the paperwork required for shipping or carrying firearms across international borders, such as export forms or proof of ownership.
• Keep physical and digital copies of permits and customs declarations on you during travel in case you’re questioned.

Some countries may also require proof of a legitimate purpose for import—such as hunting, sport shooting, or collection. Contact the consulate or customs agency of your destination country well in advance to ensure a smooth process.

Store Your Guns Properly After You Move

Once you arrive at your new home, prioritize safe, legal firearm storage. This step is not just about compliance—it’s about long-term protection of your investment and ensuring firearms stay out of the wrong hands. Whether you’re moving into a house, apartment, or shared space, planning how and where your firearms will be stored is a vital part of the transition.

Ideally, firearms should be stored in a gun safe or locked container, with ammunition kept in a separate location. If you’ve recently moved across state lines, confirm that your storage setup aligns with your new state’s laws, which may differ from what was required in your previous residence.

For better safety and longevity, secure your gun safely by anchoring it to the floor to prevent theft. Keep a detailed log of your firearms, including make, model, and serial number, in case you ever need to report them stolen or file insurance claims. If you’ve relocated to a more humid climate, installing humidity control like a dehumidifier rod can help prevent rust and internal damage over time.

Improper storage isn’t just a legal risk—it can put your family in danger. If children or others with unauthorized access live in the home or visit frequently, consider enhanced safety features like biometric locks, tamper alerts, or storing keys in a completely separate location.

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Legal

Relocating with firearms may require more preparation than the average move, but it’s a manageable process if approached with the right knowledge and attention to detail. From understanding federal protections like FOPA to navigating the specific laws of each state or country you’ll pass through, every step counts. Knowing which firearms are legal at your destination, how to transport them safely, and how to store them responsibly when you arrive can help you stay in compliance and protect your investment.

If there’s one takeaway from this guide, it’s this: don’t leave things to chance. Even small missteps—like improperly stored ammo or a missed permit requirement—can turn into costly or dangerous situations. Do your research early, talk to professionals when needed, and make use of resources available to you.And if you’re in need of secure storage along the way, SelfStorage.com can help you compare options, find facilities near your route, and reserve the right unit for your needs. Whether it’s a temporary solution during a cross-country move or a long-term setup for your firearm safe, you’ll be ready with the space you need to move forward confidently.