Hello Y’all, I’m looking for advice, I’m driving from California to Missouri , a trip I’ve made multiple times, but this time we’re bringing three of our pistols and 400 reloads for each pistol with us , because we will be doing some shooting while we are there. So, my question is, What is the most legal and proper way I should Transport my Ammo Across Country? We will be traveling in a truck hauling a 30’ toy hauler. I know my state law for this.
If you don’t want to think about local Laws, just apply " Federal Law On Vehicle Transport". Simple follow these 5 steps:
- You must be traveling:
- FROM a place where you may lawfully possess and/or carry the firearm;
- TO any other place where you may lawfully possess and/or carry that same firearm.
- The firearm(s) must be unloaded.
- The firearm(s) and ammunition must be stored separately (i.e. separate containers).
- The firearm(s) and ammunition must be stored so they are not readily or directly accessible from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. (i.e. must be in the trunk of your vehicle if possible).
- If your vehicle does not have a trunk, the completely unloaded firearm must be LOCKED in a hard sided case. The glove box or center console does NOT satisfy this requirement. The firearm MUST be stored in a separate locked case. Put the case as far away from you, in the driver seat, as possible.
- In order to guarantee federal protection, your transport through the state should be continuous and uninterrupted. This means you are not a tourist at any time. As a general rule you should not spend more than 24 hours inside the jurisdiction.
(McClure-Volkmer Rule)
6 Likes
Ok , Thank You, so it looks like it’s pretty much the same anywhere we go. 
2 Likes
Yes, this is a Federal Law and can be used for transportation only (from point A to point B).
It cannot be used in “vacation mode” when you visit several States and spend some time there.
Please also be careful and obey speed limits. Not every LEO knows this “transportation rule” and may want to apply the local Laws. And unfortunately in such case you are in lower position for discussion…
3 Likes
I’d think a lockable ammo can for your ammo would be fine…maybe paint it pink with little bunny rabbits and daisies on it or something, in case you get stopped in Cali or Colo…
3 Likes
Your biggest issue along your likely route could be if you are stopped on your way back into CA and have not used all your ammo up. Think that new law is in effect that bans CA residents from importing ammo from out of State without transferring it through an FFL? Having some proof on you that you purchased the ammo or components in CA might smooth over any CA law enforcement encounters??
As @Jerzees pointed out the interstate firearm transportation regs should protect you from local ordinances. But it won’t protect you from overzealous local LEOs. And it may not apply in states where you stop for an overnight stay or potentially even a restaurant break. So it is safest to review and comply with State regulations as well.
3 Likes
1 Like
Thank You for the advice. Every little bit helps.
1 Like
Just to avoid a potential hassle, have you considered just shipping it to your destination? 1200 rounds is an ammo cache in some places. 
3 Likes
New York City has been known to apply their own rules when it comes to weapons. Ammo might get by in a locked box but in New York to transport a weapon you must have the license and permit for that jurisdiction where they wish to transport it. As I understand it people have been arrested for transporting a weapon from the airport to their hotel and then trying to return to the airport. Best to avoid that city.
3 Likes
Oh trust me I have no desire for any reason to go to New York. Thank You for the advice though I really appreciate it.
3 Likes