Need to move your domain? I'm Dom, and I'll guide you through the domain transfer process step-by-step. Whether you're escaping poor service, saving money, or consolidating registrars, I've got you covered with expert tips and troubleshooting advice.
Why Transfer Your Domain?
Domain transfers happen for many reasons, and they're more common than you might think. Here are the most frequent motivations:
Common Transfer Reasons
- Cost savings: Your current registrar raised prices or offers poor renewal rates
- Better service: Seeking improved customer support and management tools
- Consolidation: Moving all domains to one registrar for easier management
- Advanced features: Need better DNS management, API access, or security features
- Business changes: Company acquisition or restructuring
- Registrar issues: Poor reliability, unethical practices, or going out of business
"A domain transfer is like moving houses - it seems complex, but with the right preparation, it's straightforward and worth the effort."
- Dom, on domain migrations
Domain Transfer Requirements
Before starting a transfer, ensure your domain meets these basic requirements:
✅ Transfer Eligibility Checklist
- □ Domain is at least 60 days old
- □ Domain hasn't been transferred in the last 60 days
- □ Domain is not expired (and won't expire during transfer)
- □ Domain is not locked or in redemption period
- □ You have access to the admin email address
- □ You can unlock the domain at current registrar
- □ You can obtain the authorization/EPP code
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Phase 1: Preparation (1-2 days before)
1. Choose Your New Registrar
Research and select where you want to move your domain:
- Compare pricing: Registration and renewal costs
- Check features: DNS management, security options, API access
- Read reviews: Customer service quality and reliability
- Verify support: Make sure they support your domain extension
2. Backup Your DNS Settings
Document your current DNS configuration:
- Take screenshots of all DNS records
- Export DNS settings if your registrar supports it
- Note nameserver information
- Document any special configurations (MX records, CNAME, etc.)
3. Update Contact Information
Ensure your domain contact details are current:
- Verify admin email address is accessible
- Update any outdated contact information
- Remove privacy protection temporarily (if needed)
Phase 2: Initiate Transfer (Day 1)
4. Unlock Your Domain
At your current registrar:
- Log into your account
- Find domain management/settings
- Disable "domain lock" or "transfer lock"
- Confirm the unlock was successful
5. Obtain Authorization Code (EPP Code)
Get the transfer authorization code:
- Request EPP/auth code from current registrar
- Code is usually sent to admin email
- Code is typically 8-16 characters long
- Store it securely - you'll need it soon
6. Initiate Transfer at New Registrar
Start the transfer process:
- Go to your new registrar's transfer page
- Enter your domain name
- Provide the authorization code
- Complete payment for transfer + renewal
Phase 3: Confirmation (Days 1-7)
7. Confirm Transfer Request
You'll receive confirmation emails:
- New registrar: Confirms transfer initiation
- Old registrar: Asks if you approve the transfer
- Respond to approval emails promptly
- Transfer can be delayed if you don't respond
8. Wait for Transfer Completion
Transfer typically takes 5-7 days:
- Old registrar has 5 days to approve or deny
- If no response, transfer auto-approves
- You'll get confirmation when complete
- Domain registration extends by 1 year
Popular Registrar Transfer Processes
Transferring TO Major Registrars
GoDaddy Transfer Process
- Go to GoDaddy.com → Domain Transfers
- Enter domain and auth code
- Complete checkout (includes 1-year extension)
- Confirm via email within 15 days
- Transfer completes in 5-7 days
Namecheap Transfer Process
- Visit Namecheap.com → Transfer
- Enter domain name to check eligibility
- Provide EPP code and complete payment
- Approve transfer via email confirmation
- Track status in your dashboard
Dynadot Transfer Process
- Login to Dynadot account
- Navigate to Domain Transfer section
- Enter domain and authorization code
- Pay transfer fee (includes renewal)
- Monitor transfer status in account
Transfer Costs and Timeline
Typical Transfer Costs
.com Domains
Cost: $10-15 (includes 1-year renewal)
Timeline: 5-7 days
.org/.net Domains
Cost: $12-18 (includes 1-year renewal)
Timeline: 5-7 days
Premium Extensions (.io, .ai)
Cost: $35-200 (varies by extension)
Timeline: 5-7 days
Transfer Timeline Breakdown
Day 1: Initiation
Transfer request submitted to new registrar
Day 1-2: Confirmation
Email confirmations sent to domain contacts
Day 2-5: Processing
Registrars communicate and verify transfer
Day 5-7: Completion
Transfer completes, domain moves to new registrar
Common Transfer Issues and Solutions
Transfer Denied or Failed
❌ "Domain is locked"
Solution: Unlock domain at current registrar first
❌ "Invalid authorization code"
Solution: Request new EPP code, ensure no typos
❌ "Domain too new to transfer"
Solution: Wait until domain is 60+ days old
❌ "Recent transfer detected"
Solution: Wait 60 days from last transfer
Email and Confirmation Issues
❌ "Didn't receive confirmation email"
Solution: Check spam folder, verify admin email address
❌ "Can't access admin email"
Solution: Update contact info at current registrar first
❌ "Transfer approval email expired"
Solution: Restart transfer process with new request
What Happens During a Transfer
Services That Continue Working
- Website: Remains online throughout process
- Email: Continues working normally
- DNS settings: Usually preserved automatically
- SSL certificates: Not affected by registrar change
What Changes
- Management interface: Use new registrar's control panel
- Renewal date: Extended by 1 year
- Billing contact: Changes to new registrar
- Support contact: Contact new registrar for help
Post-Transfer Checklist
After Your Domain Transfer Completes:
- □ Verify DNS settings are correct
- □ Test website and email functionality
- □ Update account passwords and security
- □ Enable domain lock at new registrar
- □ Set up auto-renewal to avoid expiration
- □ Update domain contact information if needed
- □ Configure domain privacy protection
- □ Cancel services at old registrar (if any)
Special Transfer Situations
Transferring Expired Domains
Grace Period (0-30 days): Domain can still be transferred, but renew first to be safe
Redemption Period (30-60 days): Must restore domain before transfer (expensive)
Pending Delete (60+ days): Cannot transfer, domain will be released
Bulk Domain Transfers
Transferring multiple domains:
- Most registrars offer bulk transfer tools
- Upload CSV files with domain lists
- Obtain auth codes for all domains first
- Consider staggering transfers to reduce risk
International Domain Transfers
ccTLD transfers often have special rules:
- Some ccTLDs require specific registrars
- Additional documentation may be needed
- Transfer process may differ significantly
- Research country-specific requirements
Transfer Security Best Practices
Protecting Your Domain During Transfer
- Use strong passwords: For both old and new registrar accounts
- Enable 2FA: Add extra security to registrar accounts
- Monitor closely: Watch for unauthorized changes
- Document everything: Keep records of transfer communications
- Time it right: Don't transfer during critical business periods
Red Flags to Watch For
🚨 Unauthorized Transfer Attempts
If you receive transfer emails you didn't request, deny immediately and secure your account
🚨 Domain Hijacking Signs
Unexpected DNS changes, unreachable website, or contact info modifications
🚨 Registrar Communication
Be wary of unsolicited transfer offers or pressure tactics
When NOT to Transfer Your Domain
Avoid Transfers During:
- Critical launches: Product releases, marketing campaigns
- High traffic periods: Holiday sales, major events
- Near expiration: Less than 15 days before renewal
- Active legal issues: UDRP proceedings or disputes
- Recent security incidents: Wait until accounts are fully secured
Your Domain Transfer Action Plan
- Research new registrars: Compare features, pricing, and reviews
- Prepare your domain: Update contacts, unlock, get auth code
- Backup configurations: Document DNS and email settings
- Initiate transfer: Submit request at new registrar
- Monitor progress: Respond to emails promptly
- Verify completion: Test all services after transfer
- Secure new account: Enable security features
Get Help With Your Transfer
Domain transfers can seem complex, but they're routine operations for experienced registrars. Don't hesitate to contact customer support at both your old and new registrars if you encounter issues.
Most reputable registrars offer transfer assistance and can help troubleshoot problems. The key is starting early and being prepared with all necessary information.
Need help choosing a new registrar for your transfer? Use our domain tools to research and compare options that best fit your needs.
Remember: A successful transfer starts with good preparation! 🔄