ATF Form 4587 – Application to Register as Importer of U.S. Munitions

ATF Form 4587 (5330.4) PDF Details

Form 5330.4, commonly referred to as the ATF importer registration document, is the official application used by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to authorize businesses and individuals as registered importers of controlled munitions. The form is administered under Section 38 of the Arms Export Control Act of 1976, which establishes the legal framework for importing firearms, ammunition, and other defense articles appearing on the United States Munitions Import List.

Who Needs to File This Form

This document must be filed by any entity engaging in the commercial importation of munitions-list articles. It applies to businesses applying for initial importer status, organizations renewing an existing registration, and companies expanding into additional import categories. Entities that import exclusively for personal non-commercial use may be subject to separate requirements and should consult the ATF for guidance.

Key Information Required

The registration form collects comprehensive information about the applicant's identity and business operations. Required fields include the applicant's full legal name and primary business address, Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number, and a precise listing of the munitions categories to be imported. Applicants must also describe the intended purpose of their import activities and indicate what percentage of imported goods will be sold or transferred to the U.S. government.

Registration Fees and Submission

Registration fees are determined by the length of the registration period the applicant selects. The ATF publishes current fee schedules on its official website, and fees are subject to periodic revision. Completed applications and payments are submitted through Pay.gov. The ATF may request additional information or supporting documentation before approving a registration, and processing times vary depending on application volume.

Privacy and Disclosure Requirements

The application contains notices required by the Privacy Act and the Paperwork Reduction Act. These provisions inform applicants about the legal authority for collecting their personal and business information, the purposes for which it will be used, and their rights regarding that information. Providing accurate and complete details is essential for compliance. Incomplete or misleading submissions may result in denial of registration.

Related ATF forms used in the federal firearms import process include the ATF Form 4473 (Firearms Transaction Record) and the ATF e-Form 3. Businesses also engaged in domestic firearms dealing may need to complete the Federal Firearms License Application.