Buying a firearm online from Arms East is safe, legal, and straightforward. If you’ve never purchased a firearm online before, the FFL transfer process might seem complicated—but it’s actually simple once you understand the steps. This guide walks you through everything you need to know.

What is an FFL Transfer?

FFL stands for Federal Firearms License. It’s a license issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that allows a business or individual to engage in the sale, transfer, or manufacture of firearms.

An FFL transfer is the legal process of transferring a firearm from one FFL dealer (Arms East) to another FFL dealer near you, where you’ll complete the required background check and take possession of your firearm.

Why is this necessary? Federal law requires that firearms purchased online or across state lines must be transferred through a licensed FFL dealer in your area. This ensures all legal requirements, including background checks, are properly completed.

How Buying from Arms East Works

At Arms East, we operate as an online-only firearms dealer. We do not have a physical storefront for walk-in sales. Here’s how the process works:

The Simple Version:

  1. You shop and order on our website
  2. You provide us with your local FFL dealer’s information
  3. We ship your firearm to your local FFL dealer
  4. You pick it up at your local FFL dealer and complete the required paperwork
  5. You take your firearm home

That’s it! Now let’s break down each step in detail.

Step-by-Step: Complete FFL Transfer Process

Step 1: Find Your Local FFL Dealer

Before you place an order with Arms East, you’ll need to identify an FFL dealer near you who will receive your firearm.

Where to find FFL dealers:

Option A: Use the ATF FFL Database

  • Visit: https://fflezcheck.atf.gov/fflezcheck/
  • Enter your zip code or city
  • Search for Federal Firearms Licensees (Type 01 or Type 02)
  • Get contact information for dealers near you

Option B: Search Online Directories

  • FFLGunDealers.net
  • Local gun shops and shooting ranges (most have FFLs)

Option C: Ask Us

  • Call us at +1-561-293-2915
  • We can often recommend FFL dealers in your area who we’ve worked with before

What to look for:

  • Close to your home or work
  • Reasonable transfer fees (typically $25-$75)
  • Good reviews and reputation
  • Convenient hours for pickup
  • Responsive to requests

Step 2: Contact Your Chosen FFL Dealer

Before you order from us, contact your local FFL dealer to:

  1. Confirm they accept transfers from online dealers
    • Most do, but some shops only transfer firearms they sell themselves
    • Ask: “Do you accept FFL transfers from online purchases?”
  2. Ask about their transfer fee
    • Typical range: $25-$75 per firearm
    • Some charge per firearm, others per transaction
    • Get this in writing if possible
  3. Find out their process
    • Do they need advance notice?
    • How long will they hold the firearm for pickup?
    • What are their hours?
    • Do they charge storage fees if not picked up promptly?
  4. Get their FFL information
    • You’ll need their FFL license number or a copy of their FFL
    • Many dealers have their FFL posted on their website
    • Some will email or fax it directly to us

Pro tip: Build a relationship with a local FFL dealer you trust. Once you’ve used them once, future transfers are much easier.

Step 3: Place Your Order on ArmsEast.com

Once you’ve confirmed your local FFL dealer, you’re ready to order!

During checkout:

  1. Add your firearm(s) to your cart
  2. Proceed to checkout
  3. Enter your shipping information (your personal address for billing)
  4. Provide your FFL dealer’s information:
    • Dealer’s business name
    • Dealer’s address
    • Dealer’s phone number
    • Dealer’s FFL license number (if you have it)
    • Or upload a copy of their FFL license

Payment:

  • We process payment when you place your order
  • You’re paying for the firearm, not the transfer fee
  • The transfer fee is paid separately to your local FFL dealer when you pick up

Step 4: We Handle the FFL Verification

After you place your order, Arms East takes care of the rest:

What we do:

  1. Verify your FFL dealer’s license
    • If you provided the FFL information, we’ll verify it’s current and valid
    • If not provided, we’ll contact your dealer directly to request their FFL
    • This typically happens within 1 business day
  2. Package your firearm securely
    • Professional packaging per ATF regulations
    • Discreet shipping (no markings indicating firearm contents)
    • Fully insured
  3. Ship to your FFL dealer
    • We use approved common carriers (UPS, FedEx)
    • Signature required upon delivery
    • Adult signature (21+ for handguns, 18+ for long guns)
    • Tracking number provided to you via email

Typical timeline:

  • FFL verification: 1 business day
  • Shipping preparation: 1-2 business days
  • Transit time: 2-5 business days (depending on location)
  • Total time: 4-8 business days from order to arrival at your FFL

Step 5: Your FFL Dealer Receives the Firearm

When your firearm arrives at your local FFL dealer:

What happens:

  1. Your FFL dealer receives and inspects the package
  2. They log the firearm into their bound book (required by law)
  3. They contact you to let you know it’s ready for pickup
  4. You arrange a time to come in and complete the transfer

You’ll receive notifications:

  • Tracking updates via email from the carrier
  • Often a call or text from your FFL dealer when it arrives
  • If you don’t hear anything within the expected timeframe, call your FFL dealer to check

Important: Don’t show up until your FFL dealer confirms they have received the firearm and it’s logged in. They cannot transfer it to you until it’s properly received and recorded.

Step 6: Pick Up Your Firearm at Your FFL Dealer

This is where you take possession of your firearm. Here’s what to expect:

What to bring:

  1. Valid government-issued photo ID
    • Driver’s license
    • State ID card
    • Military ID
    • Passport
    • Must be current (not expired)
  2. Proof of residency (if required in your state)
    • Some states require additional proof of address
    • Utility bill, lease agreement, or vehicle registration
    • Check your state’s specific requirements
  3. Payment for the transfer fee
    • Cash, card, or check (ask your dealer what they accept)
    • Typical fee: $25-$75
  4. Concealed carry permit (if applicable)
    • In some states, a valid CCW permit may expedite the process
    • Check your state laws

What happens during pickup:

1. Complete ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) This is the federal background check form. You’ll answer questions about:

  • Your identity and address
  • Citizenship status
  • Criminal history
  • Mental health history
  • Domestic violence history
  • Drug use
  • Other disqualifying factors

Be honest and thorough. False statements on Form 4473 are a federal felony.

2. FFL Dealer Calls in NICS Background Check

  • NICS = National Instant Criminal Background Check System
  • Your dealer calls the FBI NICS system or state equivalent
  • They provide your information from Form 4473
  • The system checks federal and state databases

Possible outcomes:

  • Proceed: You’re approved immediately (most common result – happens in minutes)
  • Delayed: Further review needed (can take up to 3 business days)
  • Denied: You’re prohibited from purchasing firearms (you’ll receive information about appealing)

3. Complete State-Specific Requirements Some states have additional requirements:

  • Waiting periods (California, Florida for handguns, etc.)
  • Additional permits (Illinois FOID card, etc.)
  • State-specific background checks
  • Purchase permits

Your FFL dealer will know your state’s requirements.

4. Pay the Transfer Fee

  • Pay your FFL dealer their transfer fee
  • Get a receipt

5. Take Possession of Your Firearm Once approved:

  • Your dealer will retrieve your firearm
  • Inspect it to ensure it’s what you ordered and in good condition
  • If there’s any damage or issue, contact us immediately
  • The dealer transfers it to you in their bound book
  • You take your firearm home

Important: The firearm must be transported in accordance with federal and state laws (typically unloaded and in a case).

Timeline Summary

Total time from order to possession:

  • Fastest scenario: 5-7 days (immediate approval, close FFL, fast shipping)
  • Typical scenario: 7-10 days (standard processing and shipping)
  • Longer scenarios: 10-14+ days (delayed approval, rural location, or state waiting periods)

Breakdown:

  • FFL verification: 1 day
  • Processing and shipping: 3-7 days
  • Background check: Minutes to 3 days
  • State waiting periods: Varies by state (0-10 days)

Costs Involved

What you pay to Arms East:

  • Firearm price (listed on website)
  • Shipping cost (varies by location and item, typically $25-$50)

What you pay to your local FFL dealer:

  • Transfer fee: $25-$75 (varies by dealer)

Additional costs you might encounter:

  • State permits or licenses (varies by state)
  • Range membership (if required for some FFLs)
  • Background check fees (some states charge separately)

Example total cost:

  • Rifle price: $1,200
  • Shipping: $35
  • FFL transfer: $50
  • Total: $1,285

Common Questions

Can I have it shipped directly to my home?

No. Federal law requires firearms purchased online or across state lines to be transferred through a licensed FFL dealer. The only exceptions are for certain antiques and some curios & relics to C&R license holders.

What if I’m denied on the background check?

If you’re denied, you will not be able to take possession of the firearm. We will work with you and the FFL dealer to return the firearm to us. Depending on the circumstances, we may issue a refund minus shipping costs and restocking fees. You have the right to appeal a denial through the FBI NICS Appeals process.

Can I pick it up at any FFL, even out of state?

You must pick up at an FFL in your state of residence. Federal law requires you to take possession in your home state (with some exceptions for long guns in contiguous states under specific circumstances).

How long will my FFL hold my firearm?

This varies by dealer. Most will hold for 7-30 days. After that, they may charge storage fees or return it to us. Pick it up promptly to avoid issues.

What if my FFL dealer won’t accept transfers from online dealers?

Find a different dealer. There are thousands of FFLs across the country, and most welcome transfer business. Use the resources in Step 1 to find a transfer-friendly dealer.

Do I need to be present when it arrives at my FFL?

No. Your FFL dealer will receive it during their business hours. You come in later when it’s convenient for both of you to complete the transfer paperwork.

Can someone else pick it up for me?

No. The person who passed the background check (you) must be the one to take possession. You cannot have someone else pick up a firearm on your behalf.

What if the firearm is damaged during shipping?

Inspect it carefully at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer. If there’s shipping damage, refuse the transfer and contact us immediately at +1-561-293-2915. We ship all firearms fully insured.

Can I return it if I don’t like it?

Our return policy is detailed on our website. Generally, firearms that have been transferred to you through an FFL cannot be returned unless there’s a defect or error on our part. This is why it’s important to research your purchase thoroughly before ordering.

What if I have a CPL/CCW permit?

In some states, a valid concealed carry permit may allow you to bypass or expedite the NICS background check. Bring it with you to the FFL dealer. Requirements vary by state.

Are there any firearms that can’t be shipped to my state?

Yes. Some states restrict certain types of firearms (AR-style rifles, high-capacity magazines, etc.). Our website will notify you during checkout if an item cannot ship to your state. If you have questions, call us before ordering.

What if my FFL and Arms East can’t connect to verify the license?

This is rare but can happen. We’ll make multiple attempts to reach your dealer. You can help by ensuring your dealer knows to expect our call/email/fax and by providing accurate contact information. Most FFL verifications are completed within 24 hours.

State-Specific Considerations

Some states have additional requirements beyond the federal process:

California:

  • 10-day waiting period for all firearms
  • Firearm Safety Certificate required
  • Roster of approved handguns (not all handguns can be transferred)
  • Assault weapon restrictions

New York:

  • Pistol permit required for handguns
  • NICS check plus state background check
  • Assault weapon restrictions
  • Some semiautomatic rifles prohibited

New Jersey:

  • Firearms Purchaser ID Card required
  • Separate permit for each handgun
  • 7-day waiting period (minimum)
  • Strict assault weapon and magazine restrictions

Illinois:

  • FOID (Firearm Owner’s Identification) Card required
  • 24-hour waiting period for long guns
  • 72-hour waiting period for handguns

Hawaii:

  • Permit to acquire required
  • Registration within 5 days of taking possession
  • Background check and waiting period

Massachusetts:

  • FID Card or License to Carry required
  • Assault weapon restrictions
  • Handgun roster

Other states: Most other states follow the standard federal process with minimal additional requirements. However, laws change frequently. Check your state’s current requirements or contact us with questions.

Tips for a Smooth FFL Transfer

1. Choose your FFL dealer wisely

  • Read reviews online
  • Ask other gun owners for recommendations
  • Consider convenience (location, hours)
  • Compare transfer fees

2. Communicate with your FFL dealer

  • Call ahead before ordering
  • Confirm they accept online transfers
  • Give them a heads up when you’ve placed an order
  • Provide them with our contact information

3. Have your paperwork ready

  • Valid ID
  • Proof of residency if required
  • State permits or licenses
  • CCW permit if applicable

4. Be patient

  • The process takes time
  • FFL verification, shipping, and background checks aren’t instant
  • Most issues resolve themselves with patience

5. Pick up promptly

  • Don’t make your FFL dealer chase you down
  • Most hold firearms for limited time
  • Avoid storage fees

6. Inspect before accepting

  • Check for shipping damage
  • Verify it’s the correct item
  • Report any issues immediately

7. Know your state laws

  • Understand what’s legal in your state
  • Know transport requirements
  • Be aware of waiting periods

What Makes Arms East Different

When you order from Arms East, you’re getting:

Expert guidance:

  • Our team knows the FFL process inside and out
  • We’re here to answer questions before, during, and after your purchase
  • We’ve worked with FFLs across the country

Reliable shipping:

  • Professional packaging
  • Fully insured shipments
  • Tracking provided
  • Fast processing

Customer support:

  • Questions about the FFL process? Call us: +1-561-293-2915
  • Email support: [email protected]
  • We’ll help coordinate with your FFL dealer if issues arise

Transparent pricing:

  • No hidden fees
  • Clear shipping costs
  • Honest communication

Ready to Order?

Now that you understand the FFL transfer process, you’re ready to shop with confidence. The process is straightforward, legal, and thousands of customers complete FFL transfers successfully every day.

Have questions about the FFL transfer process?

  • Call us: +1-561-293-2915
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Visit: 2335 63rd Ave E. Ste. M, Bradenton, FL 34203

Need help finding an FFL dealer near you? We’re happy to help! Contact us and we can often recommend dealers in your area who we’ve successfully worked with.

Ready to buy your next firearm? Browse our complete selection and start your FFL transfer today.

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