Buying a firearm online is legal — but it can't ship directly to your door. Here's how FFL transfers work and what to expect when Louie's transfer services go live.
Online firearm purchases have become common — GunBroker, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, and dozens of other retailers offer competitive prices and wide selection. But there's a step most new buyers don't know about until they try to complete a purchase.
The Legal Requirement
Federal law requires that firearms sold across state lines be transferred through a licensed dealer — a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). You cannot have a firearm shipped directly to your home from an out-of-state seller. It must go to an FFL holder in your state, who then transfers it to you after completing the required paperwork.
This applies to online purchases, private sales across state lines, and estate transfers.
What Actually Happens
Here's the process from start to finish:
1. You purchase the firearm online. The seller needs your FFL dealer's information — name, address, FFL license number, and contact info. Your dealer provides this.
2. The seller ships to your FFL dealer. The firearm goes to the dealer's address, not yours.
3. You come in to complete the transfer. This means completing ATF Form 4473 (the federal firearms transaction record) and undergoing a NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System) background check.
4. If approved, you take possession. The dealer collects the transfer fee and you leave with your firearm.
ATF Form 4473
The 4473 is the federal form that documents every firearm transfer. It records your personal information, the firearm details, and certifies that you're a legal purchaser. The dealer keeps this form on file. It's not optional — it's federal law.
NICS Background Check
The NICS check is run through the FBI and typically takes a few minutes. Most checks come back approved immediately. Some require additional review (a "delay"), and a small percentage are denied. The dealer cannot transfer the firearm until the check is complete.
Transfer Fees
FFL dealers charge a transfer fee for this service — it covers their time, paperwork, and liability. Fees vary by dealer. The fee is always collected in person at time of transfer. No online payment.
Coming Soon at Louie's
FFL transfer services are coming to Louie's Armorer Service. When they go live, you'll be able to have your online purchases transferred through our shop — with the same personal attention Louie brings to every service.
Want to be notified when FFL transfers go live? Head to our FFL Transfers page and leave your info.
Have questions or want this work done on your rifle? Reach out directly — Louie handles every job personally.
No online ordering. All work is scheduled by appointment only.