Whether we are talking about a concealed carry firearm, a firearm used for hunting, or any other kind of gun, most Americans understand the appeal of owning a firearm. This can be true even for those who do not personally own guns. Firearms are versatile tools, and many enjoy the privilege of responsible gun ownership. The keyword here is responsible. When you own a gun, there are many rules and regulations that you have to follow to be safe. This is more true when you take a firearm across state lines, especially if you are moving to a new location. There are many things to consider. Will moving companies move guns? How do I pack a firearm safely?
In this article, I will discuss some tips and advice you should be aware of while moving with a firearm.
Table of contents
- How to safely pack a firearm
- How to transport a firearm
- Will moving companies move guns?
- How to transfer a gun license to a new state
- Conclusion
How to safely pack a firearm
There is plenty of advice all around the internet about how to pack various items, from dishes to antiques to laundry machines. There is less advice about how to move with something like a firearm, although most of the advice is common sense.
First, make sure each gun is unloaded and has the safety on. Second, wrap each gun in a cushioned material, like bubble wrap. Then, place each wrapped gun into its own container. Next, fill the containers the rest of the way with a material like packing peanuts. Lastly, seal each container. Do not label the containers as having guns inside, as this may violate some local regulations, but make sure you and anyone else involved know which containers have firearms and which do not.
One of the best containers to transport a firearm in is a gun safe, or any other container with a secure lid and locking mechanism.
How to transport a firearm
If you are transporting a firearm in your own vehicle, follow the rules you normally would. Moving with a firearm is mostly common sense. Keep the firearm unloaded, make sure the safety is on, and pack it safely. Then put the gun in a place that is out of reach of the driver or any passengers to comply with concealed carry regulations. Make sure any ammunition you may be transporting is in a separate container. This will help prove that your firearms are not loaded as you travel.
Also, check the gun laws in any places you may be visiting or passing through. Gun laws vary from state to state, so your firearm may not be legal in every place you are traveling through on your destination. Check the specific regulations for how to move with a concealed weapon, a hunting weapon, or any other type of firearm you may have. You need to be careful when moving with a concealed weapon to a new state.
Will moving companies move guns?
Generally speaking, yes, but this varies from company to company. Some companies are not insured to move firearms and will not provide that service to you. And that’s okay! Just make sure that you check a company’s policy on firearms before you book with them. Details about the company’s policies will likely be in their liability release. You can always reach out to a moving company and ask directly if the moving company will move guns. There is no harm in asking! Your local law enforcement office may also be able to answer any questions you have.
Most moving companies, even if they can transport firearms, are not able to transport ammunition, since it is considered volatile/flammable. If you are relying on movers and you have firearms, this can pose a challenge.
You will have to get rid of the ammunition you currently have, and then purchase new ammunition when you reach your destination. Or, find a different way to move it.
Always inform any movers if you are having them move a firearm, even if the company does provide that service. You need to make the movers aware of what exactly they are moving.
The same is true of any friends or family you have helping you out. While, yes, you may not be required to tell your family in the same way that you are required to tell a moving company, it is still a common courtesy that should be followed.
How to transfer a gun license to a new state
Those of you that already own firearms are very, very familiar with gun regulations and the licensure process. The state you are currently in may require fingerprinting, documentation with pictures, etc. in addition to recording the serial numbers on your firearms to obtain a gun license. Make sure you know what additional things you may need in the state you are moving to. Many states have comparable gun regulations, so sometimes, you can transfer a license/concealed carry permit from state to state without much hassle.
Conclusion
Moving with a firearm is not nearly as intimidating as it seems! Just make sure to follow the advice listed above, as well as any other advice that makes sense for you and your situation. Pack your firearms safely, if you get help from anyone make sure they are informed that you are moving firearms, and follow any state or federal regulations as you travel. If you do all of this, everything should fall into place for you to have a smooth, enjoyable move.
