Importing firearms

[BunyanP 89]

Hi, 

 

I was wondering if anyone had experience importing their firearms into the U.S.? Approval from the ATF, Issues at Customs/border. 

 

Thanks!

[PickleChips 56]

I did. It was no issue. You have to apply for the permit beforehand and it took a while to get approved so I started the process early. 

Here is the link: https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/210/~/requirements-for-importing-new-or-antique-firearms%2Fammunition

The form is available from that page. 

As far as at the border, I declared my firearms, gave them the approved permits and they inspected my firearms to ensure they matched what I was claiming. Make sure to have them accessible at the border (I loaded my gun safe last into my U-Haul so the agents could get at it easily). 

 

[PickleChips 56]

Don't forget to list ammo! 

[BunyanP 89]

On 8/21/2019 at 8:52 AM, MotherofDragons said:

I did. It was no issue. You have to apply for the permit beforehand and it took a while to get approved so I started the process early. 

Here is the link: https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/210/~/requirements-for-importing-new-or-antique-firearms%2Fammunition

The form is available from that page. 

As far as at the border, I declared my firearms, gave them the approved permits and they inspected my firearms to ensure they matched what I was claiming. Make sure to have them accessible at the border (I loaded my gun safe last into my U-Haul so the agents could get at it easily). 

 

I definitely have some time. it just seemed that CBP wasn't very clear and referred everything to the ATF which at first made it seem that you needed to ship via FFL. Thanks for the info! :) 

[PickleChips 56]

No FFL needed! Thank goodness because they charge for their services.