To be clear, the domain transfer process isn’t inherently difficult, though many people believe that it’s too much of a headache to deal with. The problem is that many people stay with an expensive and/or crumby registrar because the process intimidates them. Let’s take a closer look at five things you must have in place before transferring your domain.

Five Must-Haves for a Successful Domain Transfer

1. Make the Domain Transfer Request

   Fortunately, this is the most difficult step in the entire process. This involves purchasing a domain transfer request at a new registrar’s site, and making an initial domain transfer request at your current registrar’s site. In some cases, you may even be able to keep the remaining registration time and move it with your domain to the new registrar. Some registrars will even give you a free year of registration. After you’ve made the initial request, you’ll need to check the domain registration status regularly. Immediately, it will be set to say something along the lines of “domain transfer authorization required.”

2. Approve the Transfer

   Now it’s time to approve the domain transfer. This is where you log into your current registrar’s admin page and request an authorization code. Keep in mind that you’ll need to disable any domain protection features before requesting an authorization code. Then follow the on-screen instruction to obtain the authorization code, as this process can vary slightly from registrar to registrar.

3. Confirm the Transfer

   Keep your eye out for an email, or other type of confirmation that the domain transfer has been authorized.

4. Start the Domain Transfer Process

   Now you’ll need to log into your new domain registrar’s dashboard and enter the authorization code you received from the old registrar’s site. This simply involves clicking on a link and entering in whatever code you received from the registrar. Keep in mind that once the domain transfer process has started, it can take anywhere from seven days to a little over two weeks. You should receive an email from either or both registrars that the domain transfer process has started. There is no action required on your part.

Note: If it’s been three weeks and you haven’t heard anything from either registrar, you should do a little follow up on transfer process. Send an email to either or both registrars to make sure you took all the necessary steps on your end.

5. Look for a Final Confirmation

   After the domain transfer has completed, you should receive a final email confirming that the transfer has been successful. This email should also include some basic information on how to access and manage your domain in your new registrar’s dashboard.

We can help you with your domain transfer at DiscoverTec. Contact us today with domain transfer questions or have us get started with transfering your domain.