We used to call it getting itchy feet - that feeling that we need to relate from time to time. Moving is a fact or life for many people, whether you are doing so for work, or just a fresh start. It may be a move across town, across the state, or even across the country. With that move comes a lot of new things, including an address. You'll also need to update your identification, vehicle registration, and more. But what do you have to do if you move and you have an NFA item, such as a suppressor? Here's what you need to know about moving with a suppressor.
There are two moving scenarios. One is that you move after you’ve submitted your paperwork but before you’ve received your silencer, and the other is that you move after you’ve received your silencer.
MOVING BEFORE RECEIVING YOUR SUPPRESSOR
Generally speaking, you should try to not move while awaiting approval with a Form 4473 with the ATF. Now, this isn't nearly as big of an issue as it used to be just a few months ago. Back when it would take months to even years to get your approval back, if you moved, it was a possible major ordeal. You'd have to petition the ATF to have them locate your paperwork and then send it back to be refiled under the new address. That is, if you notified them at all. That is, if you were staying in the state you filed in. We would handle the paperwork on our end and take care of that.
One important distinction to make in this scenario is the location of your new residence. If you are just moving within the state you purchased your silencer, then the aforementioned directions are fine. Just contact us - no ATF involvement needed.
However, if you are moving out of state, be sure to contact us before you move once you know your new address. We’ll need to contact the ATF NFA Branch to get everything in line with your change of state residency.
The other important distinction is what state, specifically, you’re moving to. Suppressors are only legal in 42 of the 50 states. If you find yourself moving to one of the eight prohibited states, contact us immediately so we can discuss your options.
MOVING AFTER RECEIVING YOUR SUPPRESSOR
If you already have your silencer in your possession, then there isn’t anything you need to do whether you’re just moving within one state or from one state to another. ATF’s Form 5320.20, which covers interstate transport and moving of NFA items, does not apply to silencers. It is only applicable to machine guns, destructive devices, AOWs, SBRs, and SBSs. Therefore, you don’t need to notify the ATF about your move if all you own is a silencer. Why give the government information that you don’t have to? If you really want to let the ATF know of your new address, you certainly can, but don’t expect to get any kind of reply or confirmation from them.
If you are moving, be sure you are moving to a state that allows suppressor ownership. If not, you will need to figure out what to do with the suppressor before you move.
Again, this moving scenario assumes that you’re moving between two of the 42 freedom-loving states where suppressor ownership is permitted. If you’re moving to a state where silencers are prohibited, then you’ll need to do something with your silencer before moving. We suggest you sell it, or give it to someone already in your trust should you be moving to one of the forbidden states. We have a blog post to give you tips on selling your suppressor, which you can find here.
RECAP
If you’re looking for the short version, here it is:
Moving in the same state before you get your silencer: no ATF notification needed, but contact us as your dealer for shipping address changes.
Moving in the same state after you get your silencer: no ATF or dealer notification needed.
Moving to a new state before you get your silencer: contact us as your dealer and we’ll make the changes necessary with the ATF.
Moving to a new state after you get your silencer: no ATF or dealer notification needed.
Don’t let a potential move stop you from purchasing your suppressor. Are you ready to start the process today? Give us a call or shop our selection of silencers online!
Silencer Central is licensed to sell suppressors in all 42 states where they are legal. We’ve been doing this all day, every day for more than 20 years, and have sold countless thousands of suppressors in that time. We are the experts!
Let us handle the entire purchase process for you and even deliver your suppressor right to the front door of your new home once it’s been approved. It really doesn’t get any better than that, so what are you waiting for? Call us now!
No. Unlike other NFA items like Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs) or machine guns, the ATF does not require you to file anything for interstate transport or permanent moves with a suppressor.
You should keep your tax stamp in a safe place, but that doesn't mean you need to have it with the suppressor during your move. In fact, it should be with all of your other important documents. We suggest carrying a copy of it with you in the rare instance you need to prove you have one.
If you are temporarily relocating for work or other issue, there is no need to do anything. If you change your residence, legally, there is still nothing you need to do.
Treat your suppressor like any firearm during a move. Keep it locked and secured so that you alone have access to it, and know where it is at all times.
While many suppressors can be used on several different caliber firearms, we have some specific models that can make your shooting more enjoyable. Pick the caliber that you have in mind. If you don’t see your caliber, pick one close to it to see our recommendations.
