Can I Buy a Gun Online and Ship It to Wisconsin?
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 Wisconsin, but they must go to a licensed FFL dealer where you'll complete the background check and transfer process.
What This Means for You
Online gun purchases have become increasingly common, but federal law requires all interstate transfers go through a Federal Firearms License holder. This means you can't have firearms shipped directly to your home address. Wisconsin follows federal requirements without additional state-level restrictions on online purchases.
The Detail
When you buy a firearm online, the selling dealer ships it to an FFL dealer in Wisconsin that you've chosen to handle the transfer. You'll need to contact the receiving FFL beforehand to arrange the transfer and pay their fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $50. The receiving dealer will need a copy of their FFL license sent to the selling dealer before shipment can occur.
Once the firearm arrives at the Wisconsin FFL, you'll need to complete ATF Form 4473 and undergo a background check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Wisconsin doesn't require additional waiting periods for most firearms, so if you pass the background check, you can typically take possession immediately. You'll need to provide valid identification and meet all federal and state eligibility requirements.
Handguns have additional requirements under federal law. If you're buying a handgun from an out-of-state dealer, you must be a Wisconsin resident, and the handgun must comply with Wisconsin law. Long guns can be purchased by residents of other states as long as the sale complies with laws in both states.
Some online retailers may have their own policies that are more restrictive than federal or state law requires. They might refuse to ship certain items to Wisconsin or require additional documentation. Always verify the retailer's specific policies before making a purchase.
Build Impact
This process adds time and cost to your build since you'll need to factor in shipping time to the FFL and transfer fees. Plan ahead when ordering parts like receivers or complete firearms, as the FFL transfer process can add several days to a week to your timeline.