How to Transfer a Domain from One Web Host to Another

Domain Transfer refers to the process of moving the ownership of a domain name from one registrar to another. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as switching to a different web hosting provider or consolidating multiple domain names under one registrar.

The process of Domain Transfer typically involves several steps, which may vary slightly depending on the specific registrar involved. However, in general, the process involves obtaining an authorization code from the current registrar, initiating the transfer with the new registrar, waiting for the transfer to complete (which can take up to several days), and then verifying that the transfer was successful.

It’s important to note that when transferring a domain, it’s essential to ensure that all necessary files, databases, and settings are also transferred to the new hosting provider to ensure that the website remains functional.

Checklist for Domain Transfers

(for .com, .net, .org,  .info, .biz, .co.in, .in domains)

Step 1: How to check if the domain is eligible for domain transfer or not?

• That the domain was created at least 60 days ago.
• That the domain has not been transferred from another registrar in the last 60 days.
• Ensure that the domain’s registrant (owner) information is correct and clearly visible in the who.is.
• Ensure that the owner’s or administrative contact’s e-mail address is valid and is one that you have access to.

Help transferring your domain from current registrar

Below you will find a couple of instructions that can help you to release your name from your current registrar.

Make sure that you have:

• Unlocked your domain name.
• Obtained the authorization code of the domain name.
• Access to admin email contact of the domain name.

Step 2: How to unlock domain name

Locked domain names cannot be transferred to another registrar. To transfer your domain name, you must unlock it first.

To unlock:

1. Login to your admin panel
2. Select the domain name from the list you want to transfer, using settings option click the button to OFF and save the changes.
3. If you don’t have access to admin panel, contact your registrar and ask them to unlock the domain.

Step 3: How to obtain authorization code

Authorization Code or Domain Transfer code also called as Auth Code or EPP Key. Most likely there is a link in the User Panel/My account section of the existing domain registrar, from where you can request the Auth code but before applying, verify your administrative contact information.

• Select the domain. On the Settings tab, there is Authorization Code section where you can find “Email my code”, and then click “Send”.
• The authorization code is sent to your administrative contact within 24 hours, mostly instant.
• If you don’t have access to admin panel, contact your registrar and ask them to share the EPP key.

Step 4: Now contact your new registrar

Now the status is unlocked, and you have the authorization code, share it with “The Web Hosting Provider That You Have Chosen”.

The web hosting provider will initiate the domain transfer process. An email will be sent to the admin email of the domain for acknowledgment.

Once you acknowledge the email, your old registrar will release the domain and new registrar will be ready to accept the domain. After acknowledgment, it takes 4 to 5 days for the domain to transfer to the new registrar.

On transferring a domain to chosen provider, they will go ahead and add one year to the current expiration date of your domain name. In fact, in most cases the transfer fee includes renewal/extension for one year from date of expiry. So when you transfer it, one year gets increased to the current validity of the domain.

Make a note that according to ICANN rules, the current registrar must provide you with your authorization code, and help you in unblocking your domain upon your request.