Moving with a Suppressor

Millions of Americans of individuals and families swap addresses every year. If you've moved recently, you remember just how much of a hassle it can be. And just when you're drowning in change-of-address paperwork and cardboard boxes, you remember… "Wait — what am I supposed to know about moving with a suppressor?" 

Don't panic! This blog post is here to help you know what to do with your suppressor or your currently-pending Form 4 application. 

In-State Moving with a Suppressor

If you're just heading down the street — or even from El Paso to Houston (bless your heart) — you'll simply need to notify the ATF's NFA branch of your change of address in writing to update the NFRTR (National Firearms Registration & Transfer Record). 

In-State Pending Approval

If your application is pending (or approved but not yet picked up), have your dealer contact the ATF's NFA branch for instructions on updating your Form 4 application before the transfer is complete. Give us a call if you need assistance with this!

In State Approved Form 4

If your application has already been approved and you have picked up your suppressor, you'll need to notify the ATF of any change to the registration address in writing. A formal letter can be sent via fax or email to NFAFAX@ATF.GOV.

Out-of-State Moving with a Suppressor

First things first: If you're moving out of state, make sure suppressors are legal in your new state. If you're going to California, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island or D.C., you won't be able to take it with you. Consider other states instead, and commemorate the move with a states that don’t suck t-shirt! If you're going to a state where suppressors are legal, you’ll just need to notify the ATF's NFA Branch with a Form 5320.20. You will also need to receive the application back from the ATF (approved of course) before you may transport said suppressor to your new home.

Out-of-State Pending Approval

If you have a pending application, you might need to pull those forms and restart your application (see caveat for why you may not have to do this!). We can help you with the withdrawal request, and you will get a refund for your tax stamp. Your original dealer will use a Form 3 to send the suppressor to a dealer in your new state, where you can restart the application process.

A quick caveat: if you registered as a trust or corporation, and a responsible person listed on the trust is still in the state, then that person could still pick the suppressor up on behalf of the trust or corporation once the application is approved.

Out-of-State Approved Form 4

Now, let’s say you’ve got an approved Form 4, you’re planning on moving to a new state where it’s legal to own a suppressor, but you haven't picked up your suppressor yet. Easy as pie! Complete your transfer and pick up your suppressor, then submit your 5320.20 to update the ATF of your new out of state address. Upon approval of your 5320.20, you are now clear to move stress free.

How to Notify the ATF when Moving States with Suppressor

If you need to notify the ATF that you’re moving with a suppressor, you’ll need to fill out an Application to Transport Interstate or to Temporarily Export Certain NFA Firearms, also known as a Form 20 or 5320.20. You can print, sign, and mail, email, or fax it to the following respective addresses:

BATFE

ATTN NFA Branch

244 Needy Road

Martinsburg, WV 25405

NFAFAX@ATF.GOV

(304) 616-4501

Before you take your suppressor out of state, make sure that you receive an approved 5320.20 back from the ATF.

Conclusion

It's always a good idea to reach out to the ATF if you're planning on moving with your suppressor or NFA item. Enjoy your new home!