Transferring a domain name from one registrar to another may seem intimidating, but with some guidance, the process can be smooth and hassle-free.
This article will walk you through the steps required to move a domain name, the requirements you need to fulfill beforehand, and some tips to ensure a successful transfer.
Why Transfer a Domain Name?
People transfer domain names for a variety of reasons, including:
- Better Pricing: To take advantage of lower renewal fees or discounts.
- Enhanced Features: Some registrars offer additional features, such as domain privacy protection or better security measures.
- Improved Customer Support: Transferring to a registrar known for superior customer service can make managing your domain easier.
- Consolidation: Some users consolidate all their domains under one registrar for simplified management.
Step 1: Prepare for the Transfer
Before initiating the transfer, you need to ensure that your domain is eligible and prepared for the move. Here are the key preparations:
Check the Domain’s Age and Status
Domains cannot be transferred if they were registered, transferred, or renewed in the last 60 days due to ICANN regulations. Therefore, confirm the domain meets this age criterion before proceeding.
Disable Domain Lock (Registrar Lock)
Domain locks are often enabled by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. To initiate a transfer, you’ll need to log into your current registrar account, navigate to the domain settings, and disable the domain lock. This may require entering a multi-factor authentication code or verification via some other method.
Confirm Up-to-Date Contact Information
Make sure your domain’s contact information is current and accurate. During the transfer, you will receive an email with a transfer authorization code and other instructions. Verify that the listed email address is accessible.
Request an Authorization Code (EPP Code)
The authorization code (also known as an auth code or EPP code) is a unique identifier required to transfer the domain. This code acts as a password and is usually available in the domain settings section of your current registrar’s dashboard. If you cannot locate it, contact your registrar’s support team.
Step 2: Initiate the Transfer With the New Registrar
Once your domain is prepared, you can begin the transfer process with your new registrar.
Select a New Registrar and Start the Transfer Process
Choose the new registrar and start the transfer process by entering your domain name in their “Transfer” section. For example, here’s the domain transfer page at ZappyHost.
The new registrar will guide you through the steps, which usually include inputting your authorization code and confirming contact details.
Pay Transfer Fees
Most registrars charge a transfer fee, which may include an additional year of registration. Verify the terms with your new registrar to understand the costs involved. This added year will extend your domain’s expiration date.
Approve the Transfer via Email
Once you complete the steps with the new registrar, an email will be sent to the administrative contact listed on your domain. Follow the instructions in the email to approve the transfer. This step is essential to authorize the process officially.
Step 3: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
After you approve the transfer, it could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 7 days for the process to complete, perhaps even more. During this time, your website and email services should remain uninterrupted, as DNS settings are typically maintained through the transfer.
Transfer times can be different, depending on the top-level domain (TLD) being transferred (e.g., .com, .au, .me, etc). Transfer times can also depend on how long it takes for your current registrar to accept the transfer.
Check Transfer Status
Most registrars provide a way to monitor the transfer status within your account dashboard. If you encounter any issues or delays, you can reach out to the support teams at both the old and new registrars for assistance.
Step 4: Confirm and Update DNS Settings (If Needed)
Once the transfer is complete, confirm the DNS settings at the new registrar. Although DNS settings are usually retained during a transfer, it’s a good idea to verify everything is correctly configured, especially if you’ve moved web hosting providers as well.
Update WHOIS Information (Optional)
You may want to update your WHOIS information after the transfer if you need to make changes to contact information or privacy settings. Many registrars offer domain privacy protection to mask your details from public WHOIS records. You may want to verify whether or not this is in place.
Important Considerations and Tips
- Timing: Plan the transfer to avoid overlaps with critical domain expiration or renewal dates.
- Check for Transfer Restrictions: Some domains (such as country-code TLDs) may have specific transfer policies, so verify with both registrars if there are any additional requirements.
- Domain Privacy: If your current registrar provides WHOIS privacy protection, it may be disabled temporarily during the transfer. This might briefly expose your contact information unless re-enabled at the new registrar.
- Monitor Expiration Date: After the transfer, make sure the renewal date has been updated according to the new registration period.
Troubleshooting Common Transfer Issues
In some cases, domain transfers can encounter issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Authorization Code Rejection: Ensure you have entered the correct authorization code provided by your current registrar.
- Pending Expiration: Domains nearing expiration may not complete the transfer process in time, so initiate the transfer well before the domain expires.
- Transfer Denied Due to Lock: Ensure the domain lock is disabled and that the domain meets the 60-day transfer eligibility requirement.
Final Thoughts
Transferring a domain name to a new registrar can be a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and keep your information up to date. With the guidance provided in this article, you should be well-prepared to transfer your domain seamlessly and start enjoying the benefits of your new registrar.