Domain Transfer Process: Detailed Checklist
Before You Begin
- Check eligibility:
– Domain is at least 60 days old
– Domain is not within 60 days of a previous transfer or recent registration
– Domain is not involved in a dispute or subject to a registrar lock
Preparation at Your Current Registrar
- Unlock the domain:
– Log in to your registrar’s dashboard
– Navigate to the domain management section
– Turn OFF the “Domain Lock” or “Registrar Lock” setting - Update contact information:
– Ensure admin email in WHOIS is current and accessible
– Correct any outdated phone numbers or addresses - Obtain EPP/Auth code:
– Request the authorization (EPP) code via your registrar’s dashboard or support
– Save the code somewhere secure
At the New Registrar (e.g., Tremhost)
- Start the transfer:
– Go to the “Transfer Domain” section
– Enter your domain name
– Provide the EPP/Auth code when prompted - Select domain settings:
– Choose the registration period (usually 1 year minimum, adds to existing time)
– Add WHOIS privacy protection if desired
– Update nameservers if you want to use the new host’s DNS - Pay the transfer fee:
– Complete payment (typically includes 1-year renewal)
Verification & Approval
- Approve transfer emails:
– Check your admin email for approval links from BOTH old and new registrars
– Click the confirmation links to authorize the transfer
– Respond promptly (transfers stall if not confirmed)
During the Transfer
- Monitor transfer status:
– Log in to the new registrar and track transfer progress
– Most transfers complete within 1–7 days - Avoid changes:
– Do not change WHOIS info, DNS settings, or domain lock status during the transfer
After the Transfer Completes
- Verify successful transfer:
– Confirm the domain appears in your new registrar account
– Check domain details and expiration date - Update DNS/nameservers if needed:
– Point to new hosting if required
– Verify website and email are working as expected - Enable domain lock:
– Re-lock your domain at the new registrar for security - Set up auto-renew:
– Enable auto-renewal to prevent accidental expiration - Add or review WHOIS privacy protection:
– Double-check privacy settings if you opted in
Extra Tips
- Keep both registrars’ support contacts handy in case of issues.
- Start the process well before your domain’s expiry.
- Avoid making changes to your domain (like WHOIS info or DNS) during the transfer to prevent delays.
With this checklist, your domain transfer should be smooth and stress-free!
