Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Massachusetts?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, you can buy guns online and ship them to Massachusetts, but they must go to an FFL dealer who will handle the background check and ensure compliance with state laws before transfer.
What This Means for You
Massachusetts has strict gun laws that add complexity to online purchases. You'll need to ensure both the firearm and the receiving FFL are compliant with state regulations. The state maintains an approved firearms roster and has specific licensing requirements that affect what you can legally purchase and possess.
The Detail
When you purchase a firearm online, federal law requires it to ship to a Federal Firearms License holder in your state. In Massachusetts, this means finding an FFL dealer who will accept the transfer and handle the required paperwork. The receiving FFL will conduct the background check and ensure you have the proper Massachusetts licensing before completing the transfer.
Massachusetts maintains a roster of approved handguns that can be legally sold in the state. If you're purchasing a handgun online, you need to verify it appears on this roster before making the purchase. Long guns generally have fewer restrictions but still must comply with the state's assault weapons ban and magazine capacity limits. The specific details of what constitutes compliance can be complex and change over time.
Your Massachusetts firearms license type determines what you can legally purchase and possess. A License to Carry allows you to purchase both handguns and long guns, while a Firearms Identification Card typically limits you to non-large capacity rifles and shotguns. Some online retailers may not ship to Massachusetts due to the complexity of state laws, so you'll want to verify the seller will ship to your state before ordering.
Before completing any online purchase, verify current Massachusetts firearms laws through official state resources. The specific requirements for roster compliance, licensing, and prohibited features can be detailed and subject to change. Working with a knowledgeable local FFL who understands Massachusetts law is essential for ensuring your purchase and transfer proceed legally.
Build Impact
Online purchases can give you access to better prices and selection than local shops, but Massachusetts compliance requirements limit your options significantly. You'll need to research both the legal status of your desired firearm and find a local FFL willing to handle the transfer before placing any orders.