Preparing Your Domain for Transfer

Proper preparation is the key to a successful domain transfer. Skipping any of these steps can cause delays or outright transfer failures. Follow this checklist before starting the process.

Pre-Transfer Checklist

1. Verify Domain Eligibility

Not all domains can be transferred at any time. Check that:

The domain was registered at least 60 days ago.
The domain was not transferred within the last 60 days.
The registrant contact information has not been changed in the last 60 days (some registrars enforce this rule).
The domain is not expired, in redemption, or pending deletion.
There are no active legal disputes or UDRP proceedings on the domain.

2. Update Your Contact Information

Ensure the registrant email address in your WHOIS record is current and accessible. Transfer confirmation emails are sent to this address. If the email is outdated, update it before starting the transfer — but be aware that some registrars impose a new 60-day lock after a registrant change.

3. Disable WHOIS Privacy

If you have WHOIS privacy protection enabled, disable it temporarily. Many registrars cannot process transfers when privacy services mask the registrant contact details. You can re-enable privacy after the transfer completes.

4. Unlock the Domain

Most domains have a registrar lock (also called transfer lock) enabled by default. You must unlock the domain before the transfer can proceed. This is usually done through your registrar’s control panel.

5. Obtain the Authorization Code

Request the EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) authorization code from your current registrar. This is a unique code that proves you have authority to transfer the domain.

6. Back Up Your DNS Records

Before initiating the transfer, take a screenshot or export your current DNS zone file. This includes:

A records (website IP addresses)
MX records (email routing)
CNAME records (aliases)
TXT records (SPF, DKIM, verification)
NS records (nameservers)

If you use the current registrar’s nameservers, you will need to recreate these records at your new registrar or point to a third-party DNS provider.

7. Check for Bundled Services

Review any services tied to your domain at the current registrar, such as email hosting, SSL certificates, or website builders. Plan to migrate or replace these services before or after the transfer.

Ready to Transfer

Once you have completed all preparation steps, you are ready to initiate the transfer at your new registrar. The actual transfer process typically takes five to seven business days.

Preparing Your Domain for Transfer