Transporting firearms and ammunition in Alberta requires more than just packing boxes and driving to a new home. While many people know the basic laws around gun ownership, the rules for moving these items are often misunderstood. As a moving company in Calgary, we deal with these regulations regularly. That experience helps us understand what homeowners overlook and how to avoid costly mistakes. The goal here is to provide clear, actionable steps that anyone with firearms or ammo can follow legally and safely.
Understand Federal and Provincial Laws
Most regulations around firearms and ammunition in Alberta fall under federal law. The Firearms Act and the Criminal Code of Canada set the core rules, but each province also has enforcement standards. Knowing both levels of responsibility is essential. Alberta does not add separate restrictions, but police still require proper storage and handling during moves. Therefore, any transport must meet national conditions.
First, make sure every firearm in your possession is properly registered. Restricted and prohibited firearms must be documented under your valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). You also need an Authorization to Transport (ATT) for most restricted firearms. This applies whether you’re moving across Calgary or relocating from one Alberta city to another. The ATT process may take a few days, so plan early and avoid last-minute rushes.
Prepare Firearms for Transport
Next, let’s look at how to actually prepare firearms before loading them. Start by unloading all weapons completely. This includes removing magazines, checking chambers, and confirming there are no rounds inside. Even one shell left in a chamber can cause legal trouble. After that, trigger locks or cable locks must be attached to each unit. This step is not optional. For safety and legal reasons, every firearm must be secured with an approved locking device.
Store the locked firearms inside a hard case. The case must close completely and stay shut with a latch or lock. Soft bags do not qualify for legal storage during transport. We suggest labeling each case as “secured firearm” so there’s no confusion when you unpack. However, do not display brand names or model types on the outside. That only attracts attention and increases risk.
Keep Ammunition Separate and Secured
Although it may seem minor, how you handle ammunition is just as important as the firearm itself. Ammo must be stored separately in its own secure container. The law requires this physical separation to reduce the risk of unintentional discharge or theft. Never store ammunition in the same locked case as the gun. Even if both are locked and unloaded, it violates transportation rules.
Keep your ammunition in a sturdy, sealed box. It can be plastic or metal, but it must prevent access while in transit. Label it clearly and place it in a different section of the moving vehicle. For example, if the firearms are in the trunk, place the ammo in the back seat or front storage area. That visible separation helps satisfy inspection checks.
For full residential moves that involve many categories of belongings, review your full plan with a licensed residential moving team. That ensures you follow all specific firearm-related requirements while avoiding general packing mistakes.
Use Your Own Vehicle for Firearms
Transporting firearms in a commercial moving truck is not recommended. In most cases, it’s also not legal. Firearms must stay in the owner’s possession during transit. That means you should carry them in your personal vehicle, not leave them in a moving company’s van or trailer. Even when fully locked and stored, placing firearms in another person’s vehicle changes the legal structure of possession.
Keep your documents close during transport. This includes your PAL, registration certificates, and ATT if applicable. If police stop your vehicle, they may ask to see those papers. You should also tell the officer that you are transporting unloaded and secured firearms in accordance with the Firearms Act. There is no penalty for transporting firearms legally, but there are serious consequences if you skip a step.
In addition, let other household members know where the firearms and ammo are packed. In case of an emergency, they need to be able to inform responders quickly and clearly. This step often goes unnoticed but can prevent confusion if something unexpected happens.
Be Cautious With Restricted or Prohibited Firearms
Moving restricted or prohibited firearms in Alberta adds another layer of regulation. These include many handguns, short-barrel rifles, and items classified under banned categories. For these types, you always need an ATT and must follow a specific route approved in your paperwork. You cannot take side roads, make unnecessary stops, or store the firearm overnight at a different location.
If your new residence isn’t ready on the moving day, don’t move restricted firearms until it is. Instead, leave them securely stored at your old address or in an approved licensed facility. Moving restricted weapons to a temporary location can cause serious legal issues, even if no harm is intended. The approved transport route must go directly from your current legal address to your new permanent one.
This rule often surprises people, especially during staggered moves. To avoid violations, coordinate your timing carefully. Only move restricted firearms when the new home is officially your residence and listed under your PAL record. That paperwork must be updated promptly.
Know When to Contact the Firearms Program
Sometimes, unexpected issues come up while preparing to move. For example, if you lose track of a registration certificate or your ATT doesn’t arrive in time, contact the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP). They can reissue documents or give temporary clarification. This may help you avoid postponing the move entirely. However, don’t assume you can proceed without documentation. Moving without the right licenses is risky and can lead to criminal charges.
You can also reach out if you’re unsure whether your firearms require restricted classification or ATT documents. The CFP can confirm your firearm status based on serial number and model. Many people guess incorrectly about this. What looks like a basic handgun may fall under new rules depending on its configuration.
If you need guidance on which items your moving company can handle versus what you must carry yourself, a reliable moving company in Calgary can help break it down. This avoids delays while ensuring full compliance during your move.
Avoid Common Mistakes on Moving Day
One overlooked mistake is forgetting to update your address with the CFP. After you move, you must notify the program within 30 days. This includes your new residence details and any changes to your PAL contact information. Failing to do so may result in expired status, which limits your ability to transport or use your firearms later. Make this a calendar item so it doesn’t get missed in the post-move rush.
Another error is letting movers pack ammunition or firearm-related accessories without realizing it. Scope mounts, gun safes, or tactical gear might seem harmless, but in context, they can raise questions. Make a clear list of anything related to firearms and handle it separately from the general packing inventory.
If you’re preparing for a complicated move that includes these types of sensitive items, make your plan early. For any custom questions or route concerns, you can request a quote or speak to our team directly through the contact form.
FAQ
Do I need a permit to move my firearms in Alberta?
Yes, if you are transporting restricted firearms. You need a valid ATT for the trip. Non-restricted firearms do not require a transport permit but must still be locked and unloaded.
Can a moving company legally move my guns or ammo?
No. Firearms must stay with their licensed owner during transport. Moving companies are not authorized to carry them.
What if I’m flying instead of driving during my move?
Airlines have strict policies. You must declare firearms at check-in, follow their locking and packaging rules, and check your documents ahead of time.
Can I move firearms across provincial borders the same way?
Yes, but only if you comply with both federal law and the rules of the province you’re entering. Always check ahead in case of different local enforcement.
What happens if I forget to update my address after the move?
You may face suspension or delays in renewing your licence. Updating your address with the CFP within 30 days is mandatory.