Do You Have to Empty a Gun Safe Before Moving It?

Why You Must Empty It First

• Legal — moving companies cannot transport firearms or ammunition; those stay with you.
• Safety — loose guns and heavy contents shift and can be damaged or cause injury.
• Weight — a fully-loaded safe is far heavier and more dangerous to handle.
• Insurance — your valuables travel with you, not in someone else's truck.

How to Transport Firearms (Texas)

In Texas, you transport your own firearms in your own vehicle — the mover never handles them. Best practice: unload each firearm, case it, and keep it separate from ammunition during transport. If you're moving out of state, check that state's transport laws before you cross the line. When in doubt, a quick call to a local FFL or your attorney settles it.

How to Transport Ammunition

Ammunition travels separately from firearms, in its original boxes or sealed containers, in your vehicle — never in the moving truck. Keep it cool and dry. Movers are not permitted to carry ammunition, so plan to take it yourself.

Your Pre-Move Safe Checklist

1. Unload and case all firearms → your vehicle.
2. Box ammunition separately → your vehicle.
3. Remove valuables, cash, and documents.
4. Note the combination/key and keep it on you.
5. We'll remove the door on site if it helps — about half the weight.
6. Clear a single-level path to the door.

Related: DFW gun safe movers · moving cost guide · weight chart · how to move a Liberty safe.