[JayBell]

Basic rules for transport of firearms in PA follow the definitions of "firearms".
in PA law firearms has many definitions, from the "bullet spitter" definition, to what defines "firearm" for CCW use.

If you have a CCW permit, you MAY carry the following items LOADED, and or with ammo in the direct compartment with the firearm:
semiauto pistol
revolver
Rifle with a barrel of less than 16"(includes MGs)
Shotgun with a barrel less than 18"

you may NOT transport any of the above loaded or with ammo and mags in the direct compartment that has the firearm if you do NOT have a CCW.
You may NOT transport a loaded 16" or over rifle
you may NOT transport a loaded shotgun with a barrel 18" or over.
you may NOT transport a loaded handgun, or revolver, or with ammo in the same compartment as the firearm.

basically, if you have no CCW and want to transport a handgun, keep the handgun in one case, and the ammo in another, even better, separated by something like trunk and backseat.

in the case of a rifle or shotgun, you cna keep the ammo in another separate compartment of the same case, say a padded case, that has the mag or shell pockets on the outseide of the case.

the clue is keep it separate, and outside the case or container that contains the weapon.
also, keep the weapon and or ammo concealed from prying eyes, and this means folks that walk by the car when parked, and the LE officer thats walking up to your drivers side window on any kind of traffic stop.
Further, best to NEVER surrender any info that you have a CCW, or there are weapons of any kind in the car. do NOT agree to a search for ANY reason.
if they ask you to step out of the car, i have a spare key in my wallet, i LOCK the car with the keys in it as further proof that I dont submit willingly to a search.

when they ask the inevitable stupid question as follows, do NOT lie:

"Do you have any drugs, alcohol, or weapons in the vehicle?"

reply :
"I have nothing illegal in my vehicle officer. Why have i been stopped?"

keep your lawyers number on hand, the law ONLY protects you transporting the gun to and from a range, and if you have CCW permit to carry certain weapons.

Hope this helps.