Transferring a Domain

A domain transfer moves the domain registration from the current registrar to us. DNS hosting and website hosting are separate from the registrar transfer, so prepare DNS before starting the transfer if the domain is already in use.

Transfer requirements

Before starting the transfer, check the following at the current registrar:

• The domain is unlocked for transfer.
• You have the AuthInfo, EPP code or transfer code for the domain.
• The domain contact email address is reachable.
• The domain is not expired or in redemption.
• The domain is not blocked by a recent registration, previous transfer or ownership change.

Some TLDs have additional transfer rules. If the dashboard rejects a transfer code or shows that a transfer is not available, contact support with the domain name and the error message.

Prepare DNS before transfer

A registrar transfer does not automatically copy DNS records. Before you start, decide where DNS should be hosted after the transfer:

• If you want to keep external nameservers, make sure they remain active during the transfer.
• If you want to use our nameservers, copy the current DNS records into the dashboard before switching nameservers.
• Keep mail-related MX, TXT, SPF, DKIM and DMARC records intact to avoid mail delivery issues.

Start the transfer

1. Open the domain transfer area in the dashboard.
2. Enter the domain name you want to transfer.
3. Enter the AuthInfo, EPP code or transfer code.
4. Review the domain holder and contact details.
5. Confirm the order and complete payment if required.
6. Approve transfer confirmation emails if the registry or current registrar sends them.

After starting the transfer

Transfers can take from a few minutes to several days, depending on the TLD and current registrar. The domain may show a pending transfer status during this time.

Do not change nameservers at the old registrar during the transfer unless you need to fix an outage. Wait until the transfer completes, then review nameserver and DNS settings in the dashboard.

If a transfer fails

Common reasons for failed transfers are an incorrect transfer code, an active transfer lock, expired domains, unreachable confirmation emails or TLD-specific restrictions.

If the transfer fails, check the message in the dashboard, correct the issue at the current registrar and start the transfer again. Contact support if the registry status is unclear.