How to transfer a domain name to another registrar.

Domain Name Transfers

You will firstly need to ensure that you have full access to the domain name and that it is registered in your name. Transferring a domain name from one registrar to another is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to ensure the transfer is successful. This process typically involves a few key steps, including unlocking the domain, obtaining the necessary authorisation codes, and following the specific procedures set by both the current and new registrar. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to transfer a domain name, including the costs and timeframes involved, as well as important details such as the IPS Tag for UK domains.

1. Check the Eligibility of the Domain

Before starting the transfer process, ensure that your domain meets the following requirements:

  • Domain age: The domain must be at least 60 days old. This is an ICANN rule to prevent domain hijacking or unauthorised transfers within a short period of registration.
  • No transfer locks: Most registrars lock domains by default to prevent unauthorised transfers. You must unlock the domain before initiating the transfer.
  • No active disputes: The domain must not have any unresolved issues, such as legal disputes or pending payments.

2. Obtain the Authorisation Code (EPP Code)

To initiate the transfer, the domain owner needs to request an authorisation code (also known as an EPP code). This code is a unique string of characters that authorises the transfer to another registrar.

  • How to get the EPP code: Log in to your current registrar’s control panel, navigate to the domain management section, and request the EPP code for the domain you want to transfer. This code is often sent to the domain owner’s registered email address.
  • If you cannot locate the EPP code in the control panel, you may need to contact the registrar’s support team for assistance.

3. Unlock the Domain Name

Most domain names are locked by default at the current registrar to prevent unauthorised transfers. To proceed with the transfer, you must unlock the domain.

  • How to unlock: In your registrar’s control panel, find the option to unlock your domain. This is typically located under the domain settings or transfer settings. Once unlocked, the domain is free to be transferred.

Unlocking a domain is generally a quick process, but it may take up to 24 hours to reflect, depending on the registrar.

4. Obtain the IPS Tag (For UK Domains)

For UK-based domain names (e.g., .co.uk, .org.uk), the transfer process requires the IPS Tag of the new registrar. The IPS Tag is a unique identifier that directs the domain transfer between UK registrars.

  • How to find the IPS Tag: You can obtain the IPS Tag of your new registrar by contacting them directly or checking their website. Once you have the IPS Tag, you will need to provide it to your current registrar to authorise the transfer. The IPS Tag will be entered into the domain management panel where you unlock the domain.

For domains with extensions such as .com, .net, or .org, you will not need an IPS Tag—only the EPP code is required.

5. Initiate the Transfer with the New Registrar

Once you have the EPP code (or IPS Tag for UK domains) and have unlocked the domain, you can begin the transfer process at your new registrar.

  • Search for the domain: Log in to your new registrar’s control panel and search for the domain you want to transfer.
  • Enter the EPP code or IPS Tag: During the transfer process, the new registrar will prompt you to enter the EPP code or, for UK domains, the IPS Tag of the new registrar.
  • Confirm the transfer: You may be asked to confirm the transfer request via email. Make sure to check your inbox (including the spam folder) for an email from the new registrar.

6. Approve the Transfer

Once the transfer request is submitted, the current registrar will send an email to the domain owner’s registered email address asking for approval to transfer the domain. The email will typically contain a link to confirm the transfer.

  • Time to approve: You generally have about 5-7 days to approve the transfer. If you do not approve it within this timeframe, the request will expire, and you will need to initiate the process again.

7. Domain Transfer Process and Completion

After the transfer is approved, the new registrar will begin processing the transfer. This can take anywhere from 5 to 7 days. During this time, the domain will be in a “pending transfer” status. Once the transfer is complete, the domain will be listed in your account at the new registrar.

  • Check DNS settings: After the transfer is complete, verify that your domain’s DNS settings are correctly configured, especially if you are using custom email or web hosting services. The transfer process may reset these settings.

8. Costs Involved

Transferring a domain to a new registrar usually involves the cost of extending the domain’s registration for another year. The cost can vary, but typically you can expect to pay around £8 to £15 for a .com domain transfer. For .co.uk domains, the price can range from £0 to £10, depending on the registrar. Transferring a .uk to Full Fat Hosting costs £0.

Some registrars may offer discounts or promotions, particularly for first-time customers, so it’s worth shopping around. Be aware that the transfer cost may also include the one-year extension to your domain’s registration.

9. Estimated Time for Transfer

The time required to complete the transfer process is typically 5-7 days, although some registrars may process the transfer faster. Delays can occur if there are issues with the EPP code, if the domain is locked, or if there is an unresolved issue with the domain.

Final Steps

Once the transfer is complete, check your domain’s registration details at the new registrar. Ensure that all contact information, renewal settings, and DNS records are correct. If your domain was associated with a website or email service, ensure these services continue to function as expected.

Summary of Key Steps:

  1. Ensure the domain meets eligibility criteria (60 days old, unlocked, no disputes).
  2. Obtain the EPP code or IPS Tag (for UK domains).
  3. Unlock the domain at the current registrar.
  4. Initiate the transfer with the new registrar, providing necessary details (EPP code or IPS Tag).
  5. Confirm and approve the transfer via email.
  6. Wait for the transfer to complete (typically 5-7 days).
  7. Verify domain settings after transfer.

By following these steps, you can smoothly transfer your domain from one registrar to another while minimising the risk of disruption to your services.

Please feel free to contact us if you need any further advice or help.