Temporary Storage Options for Customers
A firearm business can choose to offer any of the following options when it comes to temporary storage for customers:
- Individual storage lockers.
- Taking firearms under their control during storage.
- Gunsmithing services with a storage component.
Storage Lockers for Individual Use
Storage lockers provided by a firearm business give customers the flexibility to store and retrieve their firearm(s) on their own schedule.
- Only the individual has the ability to open the locker to retrieve the firearm.
- A firearm business does not “receive” or “acquire” the firearm into its inventory.
- The firearm business will not assume control of the individual’s firearm.
- Typically, the firearm business will not require a background check and/or a signed storage contract in order for the individual to retrieve their firearm(s).
Taking a Firearm into Inventory for Storage
Under this option, an individual will physically deliver the firearm into the possession, custody, or control of the firearm business. The firearm is “acquired” for storage by the business.
- The firearm(s) will be recorded in the businesses’ A&D records.
- The firearm business is required to record the transaction on Form 4473 and run a background check before the firearm is returned to the individual after storage is complete.
Firearm businesses do NOT typically store the following:
- NFA devices
- Anything that does not comply with local laws
If a firearm business does offer storage options, there will likely be a fee based on the length of storage. Retailers set their own policy regarding how long they will store a firearm.
Gunsmithing Services with Temporary Storage
If a firearm business has an onsite gunsmith, offering temporary storage in conjunction with basic gunsmithing services (like cleaning or engraving) can be a way to remove stigma and create motivation around storing firearms.
The minimum storage time requirement is something the firearm business sets.
Gunsmithing services typically do not require a background check; however, if a firearm business markets these services with a temporary storage component, Pause to Protect recommends:
- Having customers complete Form 4473.
- The business completes a background check upon pick-up.
Temporary Storage Resources
These resources have been used by various firearm retailers and ranges to facilitate programs specific to their location. It is our recommendation you use them as general guidance and customize each to your brand and specific needs. We also recommend you consult legal counsel before implementing your plan.
TEMPORARY STORAGE PROGRAM RESOURCES
Secure Storage Agreement
Use this resource as a starting point to create a contract you can use when acquiring a customer’s firearm for temporary storage at your location. Note: this and other contractual resources from Pause to Protect are not legal advice and should be reviewed with your legal counsel.
Temporary Storage Program SOP
This resource can be modified to fit the process your staff must follow when acquiring a customer’s firearm for temporary storage at your location.
Firearm and Customer Information
This resource can be used to collect and document customer contact information and firearm-specific data when acquiring a customer’s firearm for temporary storage at your location.
TEMPORARY STORAGE LOCKER RESOURCES
Locker Rental Agreement
Use this resource as a starting point to create a contract you can use when renting a secure locker to customers for temporary storage at your location. Note: this and other contractual resources from Pause to Protect are not legal advice and should be reviewed with your legal counsel.
Locker Rental SOP
This resource can be modified to fit the process your staff must follow when renting secure lockers to customers for temporary firearm storage at your location.
Locker Rental Tracker
This resource can be helpful in keeping track of which lockers are rented to which customer.
