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Legal & Compliance
The Complete FFL Transfer Guide for Online Buyers
EGO Arms EditorialJune 5, 20266 min read
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Federal law requires that a licensed firearms dealer — an FFL — handle the transfer of every firearm sold across state lines. If you win an auction on EGO Arms and you're in a different state from the seller, you cannot receive the gun directly. It ships to an FFL dealer near you, who processes the paperwork and hands it over after your background check clears.
This process confuses first-time online buyers more than anything else. Here's exactly what happens, step by step.
The 6-Step Transfer Process
1
Win the auction & go to checkout
After winning, you're taken to the checkout flow where you select your receiving FFL dealer. EGO Arms shows you a list of partner dealers — or you can enter your own FFL's information. Contact your chosen FFL before bidding to confirm they accept transfers and their current fee.
2
Send your FFL's information to the seller
The seller needs your FFL dealer's license information (their FFL number and address) to ship the firearm legally. This is handled automatically through the checkout process on EGO Arms. Your dealer may need to email a copy of their license to the seller directly — call ahead to confirm.
3
Seller ships to your FFL (3 business days)
The seller ships the firearm to your FFL dealer via a licensed carrier (USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, or UPS — all require adult signature on delivery). You'll receive a tracking number. Shipping to your FFL typically takes 2–5 business days depending on location.
4
Your FFL calls you when it arrives
Once the dealer receives and checks in the firearm, they'll contact you to schedule your transfer appointment. Don't show up before they call — the gun needs to be entered into their bound book first.
5
Complete Form 4473 & NICS background check
At the dealer, you'll fill out ATF Form 4473 and the dealer will run a NICS background check (typically takes minutes). You must bring a valid government-issued photo ID. If you're buying a handgun, your ID must show your current state of residence. The background check costs nothing — it's included in the transfer fee.
6
Pay the transfer fee, take possession
Transfer fees vary by dealer — typically $20–$50 for a standard firearm, sometimes higher. Once the background check comes back "Proceed" and you pay the fee, the firearm is yours. Return to EGO Arms and confirm receipt to complete the transaction.
What to bring to your FFL appointment
✓Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or state ID)
✓Your current address must match your ID — no exceptions
✓Cash or card for the transfer fee (confirm payment methods ahead)
✓Order confirmation number or EGO Arms order reference
✓For handguns: must be 21+ and resident of the state where the FFL is located
Choosing the Right FFL Dealer
Not all FFL dealers are equally easy to work with for online transfers. Here's what to look for:
- Transfer fee under $35 — anything above $50 for a standard handgun is above market rate.
- Accepts transfers from private sellers — some dealers only accept transfers from other dealers, not individuals. Ask specifically.
- Reasonable turnaround — a good dealer will process your paperwork same-day or next-day after receiving the firearm.
- Familiar with online auction transfers — dealers who do a high volume of transfers process them faster and with less friction.
Use the EGO Arms FFL Network to find partner dealers near you. EGO Arms partner dealers have agreed to standard transfer terms and are familiar with the platform's transfer process.
"Call your FFL before you bid — not after you win. Knowing the transfer fee and turnaround time ahead of time means no surprises in your total cost."
Find a partner FFL dealer near you — or browse auctions and bid with confidence.