Conduct self-audit
Review records for common errors
ATF Inspection Prep
Know what to expect and how to prepare for your ATF compliance inspection
i
Inspections Aren’t Adversarial
Most IOIs (Industry Operations Inspectors) want to help you stay compliant. Treat the inspection as an opportunity to learn and improve your processes.
What ATF Inspects
Bound Book (A&D)
Accuracy, completeness, timeliness of entries. They’ll trace firearms from acquisition to disposition.
Form 4473s
Proper completion, matching entries, retention. They may review a sample or focus on specific transactions.
Physical Inventory
Firearms on hand must match bound book balance. Discrepancies are serious findings.
Storage & Security
Firearms secured when premises unattended. Adequate security measures in place.
Multiple Sales Reports
Verification that 3310.4 forms filed when required. Comparison against 4473 records.
License Display
Current FFL displayed at business location. Correct address on license.
Before the Inspection
Preparation Checklist
✓
✓
Verify physical inventory
Count matches bound book balance
Count matches bound book balance
✓
Organize 4473s
Filed chronologically and accessible
Filed chronologically and accessible
✓
Correct any errors found
Proper correction methods only
Proper correction methods only
✓
Have license ready
Displayed and matches premises
Displayed and matches premises
✓
Clear workspace for IOI
Table and chair for document review
Table and chair for document review
!
Common Violations
Top findings: Incomplete 4473s, late bound book entries, serial number errors, and inventory discrepancies. Address these proactively.
Continue Learning
Want to see how it all works together?
FFL-Bro connects your inventory, compliance, customers, and sales in one place.
Got a question?
Don’t stop here —
FFL-Bro • Education-first • Built for real-world use