Transferring a domain between registrars is a common but often misunderstood process. Whether you are consolidating your portfolio, moving to a better registrar, or completing a domain sale, understanding the transfer process prevents costly delays.
Types of Domain Transfers
| Transfer Type | What It Is | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Registrar Transfer | Move domain to different registrar | 5-7 days |
| Account Push | Move domain to different account at same registrar | Instant-24 hours |
| Registrant Change | Change ownership information | Instant-60 days |
Standard Transfer Process
1Unlock the Domain
Log into your current registrar. Find domain settings and disable Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock. This allows the domain to be transferred out.
2Get Authorization Code
Request the auth code (EPP code, transfer key) from your current registrar. This unique password authorizes the transfer.
3Disable WHOIS Privacy
Temporarily disable privacy protection so transfer emails reach the registrant email address.
4Initiate at New Registrar
Go to new registrar, select Transfer Domain, enter domain name and auth code. Pay transfer fee (usually includes 1-year renewal).
5Confirm via Email
Both registrars send confirmation emails. Approve the transfer to speed up the process.
6Wait for Completion
Transfer completes within 5-7 days (faster if manually approved). Verify DNS settings after completion.
Speed Tip
Manually approving transfer at both registrars reduces time from 5-7 days to 24-48 hours. Check email including spam for approval links.
Transfer Requirements
- Domain must be 60+ days old
- Domain must not be within 60 days of last transfer
- Domain must not be close to expiration
- Domain must be unlocked
- Valid authorization code required
- Registrant email must be accessible
Common Transfer Problems
Transfer Failures
- Invalid auth code: Codes expire; request new one
- Domain still locked: Double-check lock status
- Email not received: Check spam folder
- Domain too new: Wait 60 days from registration
Transfer Costs by Registrar
| Registrar | Transfer Cost (.com) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Namecheap | $9.48 | Includes 1-year renewal |
| Cloudflare | $9.15 | At-cost pricing |
| Porkbun | $9.73 | Includes 1-year renewal |
| GoDaddy | $22.99 | Frequent coupons available |
Transfer for Domain Sales
- Use escrow: Never transfer before payment
- Verify buyer account: Confirm destination
- Push when possible: Faster and reliable
- Document everything: Keep transfer records
Never Do This
Never transfer a domain before receiving payment. Scammers request transfers to verify ownership. Legitimate buyers always pay first, through escrow.
FAQ
Will my website go down during transfer?
No, if DNS stays unchanged. Website continues working. Verify DNS settings at new registrar after completion.
Can I cancel a transfer?
Yes, within first few days. Contact current registrar to reject. Once both sides approve, cancellation is difficult.