4 MIN. READ
How to Transfer Your Domain Name
There are many reasons why you may need to transfer the ownership of a domain name, but no matter the reason, you must follow a process to make sure everything is done right.
What is a domain transfer?
The process of switching a domain name from one registrar to another is called a domain transfer. You must have been with your current registrar for at least 60 days in order to be eligible for transfer since ICANN attaches a 60-day change of registrant lock.
Why should l transfer a domain name?
There are plenty of reasons to transfer a domain name, and let’s just say that not all domain registrars are the same. Registrars do not just sell domain names, their services range from the features they provide, to how reliable they are. The good news is that you are not locked in – you can make the switch anytime!
How?
Whatever the reason is, we have prepared step-by-step guide on how to transfer a domain name.
Contact information
Through the transfer process, both the registrar you are leaving and your new registry provider will need to contact you. Your contact information must be up to date. To do this you have to log in to your current registrar’s control panel and check your account details. Make sure your name, phone number, and physical address are all correct – missing information could cause the transfer to take longer or to be rejected.
Email address
Often your domain registrar will provide you with an email service tied to your domain name, the reason being to be able to send emails to and from addresses and to help in the growth of your brand or business.
Unlocking the domain
Domains are locked by default to prevent accidental changes or deletion. To do this, look for the “Unlock domain” option in your registrar’s control panel. We have to mention that every provider is different, often you will find this option under the “Domain” or “Security” section of the main account screen.
Once your domain is unlocked, you are able to transfer the name to another registrar.
Authorization code
You will need an authorization code to transfer your domain. The reason for the code is to protect your domain from being transferred by an unwarranted party.
But there is more, this code serves as the bridge between your old registrar and your new. It must be supplied within five working days of your request, typically by email.
Eligibility
According to the ICANN rules, if you have created your domain name in the last 60 days, it is not eligible for a transfer. Before making any changes, make sure you are not wasting your time.
New account
Find the transfer service page and then enter the domain name you want to transfer.
Authorization
The next step is the authorization. You have to enter the authorization code which your previous registrar provided you. Once entered, you will be contacted by both parties – your old registrar and your new. You have to confirm the contact details and officially approve the transfer.
Pay
You will need to pay for your domain name transfer, in most cases using a credit card or online service.
Finalize
You have to wait some time for your previous provider to release the domain. After that your new registrar will need some time to configure the domain and server. Typically, this takes around 5 to 7 working days. Your website will remain accessible from your previous registrar, during this period.
Do not forget
Do not shut off your old registrar service until your new account is running and your domain is fully transferred! Once you have confirmed that everything works, cancel your old service to ensure you are no longer being charged.
