Domain Transfer is the process of moving a domain from one domain registrar to another. It may be necessary for several reasons, such as wanting to consolidate multiple domains with a single registrar, getting better pricing or services, or transferring ownership of the domain to someone else.
Here’s a breakdown of how the domain transfer process works:
Steps Involved in a Domain Transfer
Domain Locking: Most registrars lock domains to prevent unauthorized transfers. You will need to unlock the domain in your current registrar’s control panel before initiating a transfer.
60-Day Rule: A domain must be registered or transferred for at least 60 days before it can be transferred again. This is a standard policy imposed by ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) to prevent domain hijacking.
Accurate Contact Information: Make sure that the email address associated with the domain registration is up to date. This email will receive important transfer-related information.
To initiate the transfer, you need an Authorization Code (also called an EPP code) from your current registrar. This is a security measure that ensures only the domain owner can transfer the domain.
Choose the New Registrar:
Select the new registrar you want to transfer your domain to. Make sure to compare factors like pricing, support, additional services, and features like domain privacy or email forwarding.
Initiate the Transfer:
Go to the website of the new registrar and initiate the domain transfer process. You will usually be asked to enter the domain name, the authorization code, and any other necessary details.
Approve the Transfer:
After initiating the transfer, you will typically receive an email asking you to confirm the transfer request. Follow the instructions to approve the transfer.
Wait for the Transfer to Complete:
Domain transfers usually take 5 to 7 days to complete. During this time, the domain may be temporarily in a “pending transfer” state.
Confirmation:
Once the transfer is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation from both your old and new registrars. The domain will now be under the control of the new registrar.
Once you use our domain name lookup and find a suitable web address, you can manage your site through a simple interface.
Protect your domain from expiring and accidentally being lost by enabling auto-renewal.
Once you find your perfect domain, lock it down to prevent unauthorized transfers.
Transfer Fees: Ensure you're aware of any fees involved, including renewal fees and transfer costs.
Registrar Lock: Some domains are locked for security reasons, preventing unauthorized transfers. Be sure to unlock it before initiating the transfer.
Expiration Date: Transfers usually extend your domain registration by one year, but make sure your domain doesn’t expire too soon, as it can lead to complications during the transfer process.
Email or Website Downtime: While the transfer process itself does not affect the functionality of your website or email, it’s always a good idea to back up any crucial data before initiating the transfer, just in case.
ICANN Transfer Rules: Be aware of the ICANN rules that prevent domain transfers within 60 days of a recent registration or transfer. This is a security measure to prevent domain hijacking.