Troubleshooting Failed Domain Transfers
Troubleshooting Failed Domain Transfers
Domain transfers can fail for a variety of reasons. Most issues are easy to fix once you identify the cause. Here are the most common problems and their solutions.
Common Transfer Failure Reasons
1. Domain Is Locked
Problem: The transfer lock (registrar lock) is still enabled at the current registrar.
Solution: Log in to your current registrar and disable the transfer lock. Wait up to 24 hours for the change to propagate, then retry the transfer.
2. Incorrect Authorization Code
Problem: The EPP code entered at the gaining registrar does not match the one on file.
Solution: Request a fresh authorization code from your current registrar. Copy and paste the code carefully — it is case-sensitive and may include special characters.
3. Expired Authorization Code
Problem: EPP codes can expire after a set period (typically 5–14 days).
Solution: Request a new EPP code and initiate the transfer again promptly.
4. Domain Within 60-Day Lock Period
Problem: The domain was recently registered, transferred, or had a registrant change within the last 60 days.
Solution: Wait until the 60-day period has passed before attempting the transfer.
5. Transfer Not Approved
Problem: The registrant did not respond to the transfer approval email within the allotted time, or the transfer was explicitly denied.
Solution: Check all email addresses associated with the domain (especially spam/junk folders). Ensure the registrant email is current and accessible.
6. Domain Is Expired
Problem: Expired domains generally cannot be transferred until renewed.
Solution: Renew the domain at the current registrar first, then initiate the transfer.
7. WHOIS Privacy Blocking Verification
Problem: Privacy protection is masking the registrant email, preventing delivery of approval emails.
Solution: Temporarily disable WHOIS privacy before starting the transfer.
8. Administrative Hold or Dispute
Problem: The domain is under a legal hold, UDRP dispute, or other administrative restriction.
Solution: Resolve the dispute or restriction before attempting the transfer.
How to Retry a Failed Transfer
- Identify and fix the specific issue from the list above.
- Verify that all prerequisites are met (domain unlocked, valid EPP code, accessible email).
- Initiate a new transfer request at the gaining registrar.
- Monitor the transfer status and respond promptly to any approval emails.
When to Contact Support
If you have verified all settings and the transfer still fails, contact support at both your current and new registrar. Provide the domain name, transfer ID (if available), and a description of the issue.