FFL Transfer Fees: How Much Does an FFL Transfer Cost?

How much is an FFL transfer fee? Most FFL dealers charge $20 to $75 per firearm transfer. Federal law doesn't regulate the gun transfer fee a dealer can charge, so prices vary from shop to shop — and extras like background check fees, storage fees, and state-mandated taxes can push your total higher. It's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm the all-in cost before you have a firearm shipped.

You've found your dream gun online at an unbeatable price. But buying from an out-of-state seller or online retailer means the firearm has to ship to a licensed dealer near you — and that dealer will charge a fee for the transfer. With over 16.7 million firearms sold in the U.S. in 2023, understanding FFL transfer fees is a crucial part of being a savvy gun buyer or seller.

This guide breaks down average FFL transfer fees, what those fees include, per-gun pricing for multiple-firearm transfers, and how to find a low-fee FFL near you. Let's dive in!

What Is an FFL Transfer?

An FFL transfer is the process of transferring a firearm through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder to a buyer or to another FFL holder, ensuring the transaction complies with federal and state regulations. You'll need one anytime you purchase a firearm from a seller in another state or from an online retailer: by law, the firearm must be shipped to an FFL holder in your state, who then completes the paperwork and background check and conducts the transfer to you. This applies to all firearms — handguns, rifles, and shotguns — even if you already hold a valid firearm permit or license, though not every private, in-state gun transfer requires an FFL. A typical transfer involves the buyer, the seller, and the receiving FFL, plus a shipping FFL if the seller isn't licensed. For a closer look at who holds these licenses and what each one allows, see our guide to FFL license types.

How Much Do FFL Dealers Charge for Transfers?

Most FFL dealers charge between $20 and $75 per firearm for a standard transfer — that's the average FFL transfer fee range to budget for, with some dealers charging more for specialized services or high-end firearms. Because federal law doesn't regulate these fees, each dealer is free to set their own transfer policy and prices, which is why FFL dealer fees vary so widely from one shop to the next.

Several factors move the price up or down:

• Location. FFL dealer prices vary by region and even between dealers in the same city, so it pays to compare.
• What's included. Some dealers bundle the NICS background check fee into the base transfer fee; others itemize it separately.
• The firearm itself. Specialized services and high-end firearms can carry higher charges.
• Dealer type. Local gun shops, ranges, and big-box retailers all process transfers, and their fee structures differ — more on that below.
• Volume and loyalty. Some dealers offer discounts for multiple transfers or for customers who have purchased firearms from them in the past.

When budgeting your total FFL transfer cost, contact the dealer beforehand and ask exactly what their fee covers.

FFL Transfer Fee Breakdown: What's Included

Here's a breakdown of the charges that can make up your final FFL fee:

• Base transfer fee: $20–$75 per firearm. The dealer's standard charge for receiving your firearm, handling the paperwork, and completing the transfer.
• NICS background check fee. Sometimes included in the base transfer fee, sometimes billed separately — ask which applies before you commit.
• Storage fee. Some dealers charge for storage if you're not able to pick up the gun that business day, so plan your pickup promptly.
• State-mandated fees or taxes. Depending on where you live, state fees or taxes may be added on top of the dealer's charge.
• NFA and specialty transfers. NFA items and high-end firearms involve extra handling, and some dealers charge more than their standard rate for them.

Because every dealer prices these items differently, the same firearm can cost noticeably more to transfer at one shop than another. Confirm the all-in number before the gun ships.

FFL Transfer Fees Per Gun: Multiple-Firearm Transfers

FFL transfer fees are typically charged per firearm, not per transaction. If you buy three guns in a single online order, you may be looking at three separate transfer fees — at typical rates, that could mean $60 to $225 before any discounts.

The good news: some dealers offer discounts for multiple transfers or for repeat customers. Before you place a multi-gun order, ask the receiving dealer whether they charge the full fee for every firearm or a reduced per-gun rate for additional guns received in the same shipment. A shop that discounts additional firearms can meaningfully lower your total FFL transfer cost.

FFL Transfer Fee vs. FFL License Cost

Searching for "FFL cost" can mean two very different things, so let's separate them:

• FFL transfer fee — what a licensed dealer charges you to receive and process a firearm on your behalf. This is the $20–$75 per-gun fee covered throughout this guide, and it's paid per transfer.
• FFL license cost — what it costs to become a Federal Firearms License holder yourself. That's a separate expense paid by prospective dealers and other licensees, and it depends on the type of license you apply for.

If you're pricing a one-time transfer, budget for the fee above. If you're asking how much an FFL is because you want to become a licensed dealer, our guide to understanding FFL license types walks through each license and what it's used for.

The FFL Transfer Process, Step by Step

Once you know the fee, the transfer itself is straightforward: you choose a receiving FFL, the seller ships the firearm to them, you complete ATF Form 4473 at the dealer, the dealer runs your NICS background check, and — once you're approved — you pick up your firearm. While it may initially seem daunting, understanding the procedure helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free transaction.

1. The first step in the FFL transfer process is to find the firearm you wish to purchase. This can be done through an online retailer, a classified ad, or a private seller in another state. Once you've found the gun dealer and the gun you want, you'll need to arrange the purchase with the seller.
2. If the seller is not a federal firearms license holder, they must ship the firearm to an FFL holder in your state. This is where you'll need to find a reputable FFL dealer near you who can handle legal transfers. Many online retailers have a network of preferred FFLs, or you can search for one using online directories.
3. Once you've selected an FFL dealer, you'll need to provide their contact information to the seller. The seller will then ship the firearm to your chosen FFL dealer, who will notify you when it arrives at their store or facility.
4. At this point, you'll need to visit the FFL dealer in person to complete the transfer process. This is where the paperwork and background check come into play. You'll be required to fill out an ATF Transfer Form 4473, which includes personal information and a series of questions to determine your eligibility to possess a firearm.
5. The FFL dealer will then conduct a background check using the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). This system searches various databases to ensure that you are not prohibited from owning a firearm based on factors such as criminal history or mental health records.
6. Assuming you pass the background check, you'll be required to pay the FFL transfer fee and any applicable state taxes. Once the paperwork is complete and the fees are paid, the FFL dealer will release the firearm to you and complete the transfer process.

By familiarizing yourself with these steps and gathering the necessary information — including a valid government-issued ID — you can help ensure a smooth and efficient FFL transfer process.

How to Find Low FFL Transfer Fees Near You

Because fees vary so much between dealers, a few phone calls can save you real money on a transfer. Start with online FFL directories and the dealer locators many online firearm retailers provide, then compare several options near you. Both local gun shops and big-box retailers like Cabela's process transfers, but their fees and policies vary by location and change over time — so always call your nearest store to confirm the current fee rather than relying on prices posted online.

Here are some tips to help you find and select a reputable FFL:

1. Start with a simple online search for "FFL dealer near me" or "FFL transfer near me." This will give you a list of licensed dealers in your area.
2. Check out online reviews and ratings for each FFL on your list. Look for dealers with a history of positive customer experiences and timely, efficient transfers.
3. Contact the FFL directly to ask about their transfer process and fees. A reputable dealer should be happy to answer your questions and provide clear, upfront pricing.
4. If you're transferring a specialized firearm, such as an NFA item or a collectible, look for an FFL with experience in handling those types of transfers.

Before you commit, run through this quick call-ahead checklist with any dealer you're considering:

• What is your transfer fee per firearm, and does it include the NICS background check?
• Do you charge a reduced rate for additional firearms on the same transfer?
• Is there a storage fee if I can't pick up the same business day?
• Do you accept transfers from private sellers as well as retailers?
• What ID and paperwork do I need to bring, and what are your pickup hours?

Don't be afraid to shop around and compare fees and services before making a decision.

Tips for Buyers and Sellers

Whether you're buying or selling, a little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth FFL transfer.

For buyers:

• Communicate clearly with the seller about your preferred FFL dealer and provide accurate contact information.
• Contact the FFL dealer beforehand to confirm their transfer process and fees.
• Bring a valid government-issued ID and be prepared to complete the necessary paperwork.
• Allow plenty of time for the transfer, especially on weekends or holidays.

For sellers:

• Verify the receiving FFL's license and information before shipping the firearm.
• Package the firearm securely and include a copy of your own FFL (if applicable) or your driver's license.
• Use a reliable shipping service that allows firearm shipments and provides tracking.
• Share the shipping timeline and tracking information with the buyer once the firearm ships.

The Bottom Line on FFL Transfer Fees

In the world of firearms ownership, knowledge is power. Budget $20 to $75 per firearm for a typical transfer, ask up front about background check, storage, and state fees, and compare a few dealers near you before choosing your receiving FFL. Remember, every firearm transaction is unique, and additional state or local laws may apply to your situation.

And if you're on the other side of the counter — an FFL dealer collecting transfer fees or selling firearms online — PayKings helps merchants in the firearms industry transact smoothly with a tailored firearms merchant account and high volume merchant account solutions. Contact us today to get started.