Safely And Legally Moving Across State Lines With Firearms

Posted on: 27 May 2016

Many moving companies have a list of items they absolutely will not handle, and firearms are typically at the top. This can put gun owners moving long-distance to other states in a bit of a bind, because they can easily get themselves into legal hot water or accidentally injure someone if they move their firearms the wrong way. Here's what you need to know to safely and legally move your guns from one state to another.

Check Local Laws

Before you even start packing, you need to check the laws in the state to which you are relocating to determine if the state will accept your gun license and whether you can legally own the types of firearms you have. For instance, California doesn't recognize concealed carry permits from Illinois. You would need to apply for a new license when you get to that state. Some states ban residents from owning certain types of guns. Assault weapons are banned in Connecticut unless they were in the person's possession prior to July 1, 1994, for example.

Federal law lets people transport guns across state lines as long as they are legally allowed to own the firearm in the state they left and their destination states. However, state laws may differ in this area. If you're driving across country, you need to check the firearms transport laws for each state you'll be passing through to ensure you're above board. You can usually learn about a particular state's gun laws by visiting that state's government website or calling the local law enforcement.

Pack Right

Guns should be packed, unloaded, in a locked container separately from the ammunition and placed in an inaccessible area, such as the trunk of the vehicle. This prevents children and unauthorized persons from gaining access to the firearms.

Make a list of all the guns you're transporting including the make, model, serial number, and unique characteristics. If the firearms get lost or stolen en route, you'll have the information you need to fill out a police report. Additionally, you should gather together the registration documents for each firearm, and place in a folder or large envelope. If you are stopped by police, you'll have proof you own them.

Alternative Moving Option

Rather than transport the firearms yourself, it may be better to take them to a gun dealer and have the person ship the guns to your new home. While this represents an added moving expense, you'll avoid a lot of the issues associated with transporting firearms across state lines.

For more information about moving with guns, contact long-distance movers.

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