Washington Firearm Transfer Process (Step-by-Step)
Understanding how the transfer process works helps avoid delays and confusion. Below is a simple overview of the typical steps when completing a firearm transfer in Washington.
Step 1 – Arrange the Purchase or Transfer
If buying online or through an auction site, select Redridge Arms as your receiving FFL. If completing a private-party transfer, contact us to schedule a transfer appointment.
Before the firearm ships, please contact us so we can confirm instructions for the seller.
Step 2 – Firearm Arrives at Redridge Arms
Once the firearm arrives, it is logged into our system and securely stored. We will contact you to schedule your intake appointment.
For private-party transfers, both parties will attend the scheduled appointment.
Step 3 – Complete Required Paperwork
During your appointment we complete the required federal and Washington State paperwork. Identification and residency documentation will be reviewed.
This step begins the legal transfer process.
Step 4 – Background Check and State Processing
Washington requires background checks for firearm transfers. Some firearm types may also require a waiting period. Processing time can vary depending on the background check system and state requirements.
Redridge Arms will notify you once the transfer is legally cleared.
Step 5 – Schedule Pickup
Once the transfer is approved and any required waiting period has passed, we will contact you to schedule your pickup appointment.
Your firearm will be transferred to you at that time.
How to Buy a Firearm Online and Ship It to an FFL in Washington (Step-by-Step)
Buying a firearm online is common and often provides access to a much larger selection than most stores can keep in stock. Federal law requires that most online firearm purchases be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms Dealer (FFL) who completes the transfer process.
Redridge Arms provides appointment-based transfer services for customers throughout Black Diamond, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Covington, and nearby King County communities.
Below is a simple step-by-step overview of how the process works.
Step 1 – Choose the Firearm You Want
You may purchase firearms from many reputable online retailers and auction platforms.
Common examples include:
• online firearm retailers
• manufacturer online stores
• auction platforms such as GunBroker
• out-of-state gun shops that ship to FFL dealers
Once you find the firearm you want, you will select a licensed FFL dealer to receive the shipment.
Step 2 – Select Redridge Arms as Your Receiving FFL
During checkout, the seller will ask you to choose a receiving Federal Firearms Dealer.
Select Redridge Arms in Black Diamond, Washington as the dealer who will receive the firearm.
If the seller does not already have our FFL on file, contact us and we can provide the required information directly to the seller.
Please contact us before your seller ships the firearm so we can confirm shipment instructions.
Step 3 – The Seller Ships the Firearm
Once the purchase is complete, the seller will ship the firearm to Redridge Arms.
The shipment must comply with federal and state laws governing firearm transfers.
When the firearm arrives, it will be logged and securely stored until your appointment.
Step 4 – Schedule Your Transfer Appointment
After the firearm arrives, we will contact you to schedule your intake appointment.
During the appointment:
• required federal and Washington State paperwork is completed
• identification and residency are verified
• the transfer process begins
Step 5 – Background Check and Waiting Period
Washington State requires background checks for firearm transfers. Some firearms may also require a waiting period before the firearm can be released.
Processing time depends on state systems and legal requirements.
Redridge Arms will notify you when the transfer is legally approved.
Step 6 – Schedule Pickup
Once the background check is approved and any required waiting period has passed, you will schedule a pickup appointment.
At that time, the firearm will be transferred to you in accordance with applicable law.
Before You Purchase Online
Before placing an online firearm order, it is recommended that you:
• confirm transfer pricing
• contact the receiving FFL
• ensure the firearm is legal in your state
• verify the seller can ship to your selected FFL
Taking these steps helps prevent delays and unnecessary shipping issues.
Why Many Buyers Choose Redridge Arms
Customers choose Redridge Arms for transfers because we offer:
• appointment-based service
• organized transfer handling
• clear communication throughout the process
• transparent pricing
Our goal is to make the transfer process straightforward and predictable.
Questions Before You Buy?
If you are unsure about an online purchase or want to confirm shipment instructions, please contact us before placing your order.
Redridge Arms
Black Diamond, Washington
📞 206-412-3531
✉️ dgordon@redridgearms.com
Common Transfer Questions in Washington
Do I need to live in Washington to transfer a firearm through Redridge Arms?
Yes. Federal law generally requires that firearm transfers be completed through a licensed dealer in the buyer’s state of residence. If you are a Washington resident, Redridge Arms can handle the transfer process in accordance with state and federal law.
Can I transfer a firearm to a family member in Washington?
Many transfers between private individuals in Washington must still be processed through a licensed Federal Firearms Dealer. Requirements can vary depending on the relationship and circumstances, so it’s best to contact Redridge Arms before arranging the transfer so we can confirm the correct process.
What happens if my background check is delayed?
Occasionally background checks require additional review. If this happens, the transfer cannot be completed until the background check is resolved or the legally allowed time period has passed. Redridge Arms will contact you as soon as the transfer is legally cleared.
Can Redridge Arms receive firearms from online auctions like GunBroker?
Yes. Many customers purchase firearms through online auction sites and have them shipped to Redridge Arms for transfer. Contact us before your seller ships the firearm so we can confirm shipment instructions and provide any required FFL information.
What areas does Redridge Arms serve?
Redridge Arms serves customers throughout Black Diamond, Maple Valley, Enumclaw, Covington, and nearby King County communities. Transfers and consultations are handled by appointment to keep the process organized and efficient.
Why are firearm transfers handled by appointment?
Firearm transfers require documentation, verification, and compliance steps. Appointment scheduling allows Redridge Arms to prepare in advance, avoid long waits, and ensure each transfer is handled correctly and efficiently.
Washington Firearm Laws – General Overview for Buyers
Firearm laws in Washington State include specific requirements related to background checks, waiting periods, and lawful transfers. Understanding these rules can help buyers prepare for the transfer process and avoid delays.
The information below is intended as a general overview. Firearm laws may change, and customers should confirm current requirements when arranging a transfer.
Background Checks
Federal and Washington State law require background checks for most firearm purchases and transfers conducted through a licensed Federal Firearms Dealer (FFL).
The background check is initiated during the transfer appointment after the required paperwork has been completed.
Approval decisions and processing timelines are determined by government systems and are outside the control of the dealer.
Waiting Periods
Certain firearms in Washington may be subject to waiting periods before they can be released to the buyer.
Waiting periods are determined by state law and may vary depending on the type of firearm and the background check process.
Redridge Arms will notify customers once the transfer is legally approved and ready for pickup.
Private Party Transfers
Washington law generally requires private firearm sales between individuals to be processed through a licensed Federal Firearms Dealer.
Both the buyer and seller typically attend a scheduled appointment where required paperwork is completed and the background check process begins.
Identification Requirements
Customers must provide valid government-issued identification when completing a firearm transfer.
Identification must reflect the customer’s current Washington residency. Additional documentation may be required if the address on the identification is not current.
Online Firearm Purchases
Firearms purchased online must be shipped to a licensed dealer before they can be transferred to the buyer.
Once the firearm arrives, the buyer schedules an appointment with the dealer to begin the required paperwork and background check process.
Responsible Ownership
Washington law requires firearm owners to store and handle firearms responsibly. Safe storage practices help prevent unauthorized access and accidents.
Customers are encouraged to become familiar with safe firearm handling and storage practices.
Laws May Change
Firearm laws are subject to change and may be updated periodically by state or federal authorities.
Redridge Arms provides transfer services in compliance with current laws but does not provide legal advice regarding firearm ownership or regulations.
Customers with legal questions should consult qualified legal counsel or review official state resources.
Still Have Questions?
If you're unsure about the process, feel free to contact us before scheduling. Redridge Arms is happy to explain the next steps and help ensure your transfer is handled correctly.
📞206-412-3531 ✉️dgordon@redridgearms.com