Setting up your website is easy and only takes a few minutes. Transferring a domain name is also easy — but not as straightforward, as it needs the consent of both parties. Depending on the people involved and whether the rules were followed perfectly, your request to transfer domain may take anywhere between a few hours to a couple of days. If you feel like transferring a domain name, read on, and we’ll show you how to do it!
What Attributes to Look For in a New Registrar?
Most registrars provide web hosting, email, and privacy protection. But what else?
- Will you be charged for the tools you require? Or, are they appended in the subscription fee?
- Can the end-user add new functionalities easily?
- Does the registrar provide user-friendly tools to help you manage your domains, or would you have to do more?
- Will there be a helpline available?
- Who supplies the services they claim to own? Some registrars provide such features as email and web hosting themselves, while the rest contract third-party providers.
Cost
Some registrars charge extra fees for services that others provide for free. Some companies offer low initial pricing but then charge a considerable renewal cost. If saving money is on the agenda, domain registrars who charge an umbrella fee may be an excellent choice.
However, this isn’t enough to encourage one to shift. An affordable domain name isn’t worth sacrificing your needs to skimp out on a few bucks. Do your due diligence when researching registrars before switching.
Ease of Transfer
With so many registrars available, you can quickly move your domain. While the processes are distinct among registrars, there are several commonalities.
- Transfer locks block domains from being moved without your consent.
- An authorization code is required for a domain transfer from one registrar to another. It is also known as an EPP and Transfer Code.
- The registrar should send a confirmation email to the owner to verify the transfer. You will have to identify yourself before sending funds.
The transfer technicalities might seem daunting. That’s why many registrars provide great online support.
How to Transfer a Domain
Before You Begin
The first step is to agree with your client on the terms and conditions. In a transaction, all parties should agree upon the price and other terms. As most domains are maintained via subscription, checking how much time remains on your domain name is a good idea. Most subscription etiquette dictates that the seller completes the subscription term before the customer begins a new one.
Before starting, make sure the current owner has an updated email address. Updating your registrar’s email can result in a short-term restriction on transferring domain management.
Disabling WHOIS
Once you’ve agreed on a baseline, you may start the domain transfer. The new registrar must know who currently owns the domain to accept the new ownership. You must disable WHOIS domain privacy, making it public and available to the registrar.
Free Up Your Domain
Your next task is to unlock your domain. Domain transfers are usually locked to prevent domain theft or misuse. After removing the lock, you can continue freely. After logging into your administration platform, it is easy to alter your account’s settings.
Transfer the Authorization Code
After completing the domain unlocking process, find the transfer authorization code, which only the domain owner can access. Depending on the registrar, it may be spread over the platform. This password is also known as an EPP key, secret code, or authentication code.
What the Buyer Needs to Do
The buyer will need to enter their registrar’s website and request a transfer. This information is usually posted in an easily accessible area. Filling out the application form for domain name transfer is all it takes. If your current membership expires, you may be asked to purchase a new one to ensure payment and resolve any concerns.
Falling Into Place
Upon submission of the buyer’s request to the current owner, an email should be sent to the current owner’s inbox to their email address. The transfer will be complete once the existing owner gives final clearance. After the email is acknowledged, log into your registrar’s account and check your messages.
It is critical to read all additional terms and conditions of the transaction or ownership transfer. Registrars handle the transfer after that, so your part is done.
Conclusion
It’s vital to remember that this is a human-to-human transfer, not a computer-to-human transfer, so maintaining solid records and following the process is essential, especially if any legal issues arise. It’s doubtful that this will happen, but it’s always best to be safe than sorry.
Now you know how to perform a domain transfer process! Pick a good registrar and move on to the next big thing in your life!