NameJet is one of the premier platforms for catching expired and deleted domains. With connections to major registrars and a professional bidding system, it's where serious domain investors acquire premium names that previous owners let expire.
What is NameJet?
NameJet specializes in:
Expired Domains
Domains that owners failed to renew. Often have history, backlinks, and traffic.
Pre-Release Auctions
Domains caught during the deletion process before they return to public availability.
Backorder Service
Reserve domains before they expire. If caught, you win or enter auction.
Private Seller Auctions
Domain owners list their domains for auction on NameJet's platform.
How NameJet Auctions Work
Backorder Process
- Find a domain nearing expiration using tools like ExpiredDomains.net
- Place a backorder on NameJet ($79 fee, refunded if not caught)
- NameJet attempts to catch the domain when it deletes
- If caught with multiple backorders → auction starts
- If caught with only your backorder → you win at $79
Auction Process
- Auctions typically run 3 days
- Proxy bidding: enter max bid, system bids incrementally
- Auctions extend if bids come in final minutes
- Highest bidder wins; payment due immediately
- Domain transferred to your account
NameJet Fee Structure
| Service | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Backorder | $79 | Refunded if domain not caught |
| Auction Win | Winning bid | No additional success fee |
| Minimum Bid | $69 | Starting bid for most auctions |
| Private Auction (Seller) | 15% | Commission on final sale |
Multiple Backorder Strategy
Place backorders on multiple dropping domains you want. You only pay $79 for domains successfully caught. This spreads your bets across many opportunities.
Bidding Strategies
Strategy 1: Proxy Bidding
Enter your true maximum bid upfront. NameJet's system bids incrementally against competitors. Advantage: you won't overpay due to emotional bidding. Disadvantage: competitors can probe your max.
Strategy 2: Snipe Bidding
Wait until final minutes to place your bid. Advantage: competitors can't react. Disadvantage: auctions extend if bids come late, so true sniping is harder.
Strategy 3: Early Authority
Bid early and high to discourage competition. Advantage: may win with less total spend if others are intimidated. Disadvantage: reveals your interest level.
What to Look for in Expired Domains
- Domain age: Older domains often have more authority
- Backlink profile: Quality backlinks = SEO value
- Traffic history: Check if domain had regular visitors
- Clean history: Verify no spam or penalty issues
- Keyword value: Is it a valuable exact-match keyword?
- Brandability: Would someone pay for this as a brand?
Due Diligence Warning
Not all expired domains are valuable. Many were dropped for good reason—spam history, trademark issues, or simply no value. Always research backlinks (Ahrefs, Majestic), check archive.org for history, and verify no Google penalties before bidding.
NameJet vs. Competitors
| Platform | Backorder Fee | Specialty | Auction Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| NameJet | $79 | Premium expiring domains | Proxy + extension |
| SnapNames | $79 | Same inventory as NameJet | Proxy + extension |
| GoDaddy Auctions | $varies | Largest volume | True auction |
| DropCatch | $59 | Budget option | Multiple catch services |
Pro Tips for NameJet Success
- Set strict budgets: Auction fever is real; know your max before bidding
- Research dropping dates: Track domains 30-60 days before deletion
- Diversify backorders: Don't put all eggs in one domain basket
- Check for trademark: Avoid domains that could have legal issues
- Verify metrics independently: NameJet's data is limited; use external tools
FAQ
What happens if I win and don't pay?
NameJet will restrict your account and may pursue payment. Always only bid what you're willing to pay. Non-payment damages your reputation in the domain community.
Can I backorder the same domain on multiple platforms?
Yes, and it's common practice. Different platforms have different catch rates. Place backorders on NameJet, SnapNames, DropCatch, and GoDaddy to maximize chances.
How do I know when a domain is dropping?
Use ExpiredDomains.net, DomCop, or similar services. They track domain expiration dates and deletion schedules across registrars.