FFL Transfers

How an FFL Transfer Works

If you bought a firearm online or from an out-of-state seller, federal law requires it to ship to a licensed dealer for the actual transfer. Here's how we handle it — start to finish.

The Process

Step-by-Step

  1. Reach out first. Email or text us before the seller ships. We'll send you our current FFL PDF.
  2. Forward our FFL to the seller. They need a copy of our license on file before they'll ship the firearm.
  3. We receive and log it. When the package arrives, we inspect it, log it into our bound book, and notify you the same day.
  4. Schedule pickup. We're appointment-only — reply with a time that works and we'll confirm.
  5. In person at pickup. Bring valid government ID. We complete Form 4473 with you and run the NICS background check on the spot.
  6. Walk out with it. Once NICS clears (usually within minutes), the firearm is yours. Total time on site is typically 15–20 minutes.
When You Need One

Common Reasons People Use Us

If any of these match what you're doing, you need an FFL on the receiving end:

Online Retailer Purchase

Bought from Brownells, Palmetto State Armory, GunBroker, Gallery of Guns, or any other online dealer. They legally can't ship to your door — it has to come to a licensed FFL like us.

Out-of-State Private Sale

Found a deal from a private seller in another state. Federal law requires the firearm cross state lines through an FFL on the receiving end, even between two private parties.

Inheritance From Out of State

Inheriting firearms from a relative outside Maine. The estate or shipper sends them to us, we log them in, and you pick them up after a 4473 and NICS check.

Warranty / Gunsmithing Returns

If a manufacturer or out-of-state gunsmith is returning your firearm to you across state lines, it has to come back through an FFL.

What to Bring
  • Valid government-issued photo ID with your current address
  • Cash or card for the transfer fee ($25 first firearm, $10 each additional on the same 4473)
  • The shipping tracking or our receiving notification (helpful, not required)
Before You Ship

Have the sender address the package to Dirigo Defense with our FFL info in the shipping label notes. Reach out first — we'll send you the current FFL PDF to forward to the seller and confirm the receiving address.

Pickup Timing

How Soon Can You Come In?

We process incoming transfers within one business day of receipt. As soon as it's logged, we notify you by email or text and you can schedule pickup at your convenience — same week is usually no problem. Storage is included in the transfer fee, so there's no rush.

What We Can't Accept

Restrictions

A few things to know up front. If any of these apply, talk to us first so we can save you a trip.

Ready to Go

Schedule Your Transfer

Email, text, or DM us — we'll send our FFL PDF and confirm a pickup time. Pricing is on the services page.