So, how long does a domain transfer take? ⏰
Well, the good news is that transferring a domain is generally a straightforward process. As long as you’re clear on which specific steps to take (and there aren’t that many), you should have your domain transferred in a week.
Below, we’ll give you more details on everything you need to know about this process – from initiating the transfer to the moment your domain finally settles into its new home. We’re breaking this down so that you have clarity about everything concerning domain transfers. ➡️
Let’s begin.
How long does a domain transfer take? The full process
Typically, transferring a domain takes around five to seven days. There are three key phases that will allow you to have a successful transfer – you’ll need to verify the domain transfer, prepare it, and submit the transfer.
👉 Here’s a closer look at each phase of the transfer.
Verifying the domain transfer 🔁
The first stage for our guide on how long does a domain transfer take, is the verification phase.
Before transferring your domain from one registrar to another, it’s important to ensure that your domain is eligible.
What makes it an eligible domain? In a nutshell, you’ll need to ensure the following:
Your domain was registered at least 60 days ago with your current registrar
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) sets certain policies and regulations for domain registrars. One of them is a 60-day transfer lock, aka “60-Day Rule.”
When a domain name is newly registered or transferred from one registrar to another, a 60-day transfer lock is imposed by ICANN. This is part of ICANN’s efforts to enhance domain name security and prevent unauthorized transfers of domain names between registrars. During this lock period, the domain cannot be transferred to a different registrar.
If there are changes to the registrant’s contact information (name, organization, email address, or administrative contact), some registrars may interpret this as a transfer request and apply the 60-day lock to the domain.
The 60-day transfer lock serves as a security measure to protect domain owners from unauthorized transfers, especially in cases where account credentials may have been compromised.
In a nutshell, this means that if your domain is newer than 60 days, you can’t transfer it right now. If this is the case with your domain, you’ll need to wait a few more weeks before you can attempt the transfer.
Your domain isn’t on hold
Outside of the above 60-day rule, a domain registrar may put a domain on hold for various reasons, including non-payment, having contact information issues, domain disputes, or if there was abuse or violation of terms.
There are no outstanding fees or financial disputes
Before switching domains, ensure that there are no outstanding fees, disputes, or unpaid invoices related to the domain. Resolving financial issues in advance prevents unnecessary complications and ensures a seamless transition to your new registrar. It’s a proactive step to guarantee that your domain is free and clear for a successful transfer.
You’ve released the registrar lock on your domain
Registrar Lock, often referred to as “domain lock” or “transfer lock,” is a security feature used by registrars. When enabled, it prevents unauthorized transfers and modifications to your domain settings.
Before initiating a transfer, it’s important to ensure that the registrar lock is disabled. If you’re using Namecheap, here’s a guide on how to unlock your domain. While the process might be slightly different for another registrar, this guide should still give you a good idea of how to go about releasing the registrar lock.
As an additional note – once the transfer is complete, consider enabling this feature with your new registrar to safeguard your domain against unauthorized activities.
Preparing the domain transfer 🔀
Once you’re sure that your domain is eligible for transfer, it’s time to prepare it.
At this stage, you need an authorization code. The authorization code is a security measure that helps to confirm that you’re the domain holder. This code is commonly known as an “Auth Code,” “EPP code,” or “transfer code.”
Your original registrar has your Auth code and you’ll find it in the domain information or domain settings section.
Submitting the domain transfer ☑️
The final step of our guide on how long does a domain transfer take, is submitting your transfer request.
At this stage, you’ll head to your new registrar, enter your domain name, and when prompted, enter the Auth Code you got from the previous step.
Your new registrar will also ask for a payment for the transfer.
Once all this is concluded, your part in this transfer is complete and it’s time for the registrars to do their part.
How long does a domain transfer take? FAQs
Can I track the progress of my domain transfer?
Yes. You’ll be able to track the progress from the side of your new registrar. You can check the status from the moment you complete the transfer.
Can I speed up the process?
Yes and no. Some steps in the transfer process have their own “clock.” For example, as explained earlier, if you registered your domain less than two months ago, it will be under ICANN’s 60-Day Rule. There’s no way around this.
However, there are things you can do on your side to make things smoother. For example, you can ensure your domain is eligible, double-check your contact info, and promptly approve any verification requests.
Once you’ve completed the transfer from the old domain and have done everything you need to, it is mostly just a waiting game.
In some rare instances, you may run into other issues like your new registrar rejecting the authorization code from your old registrar. These issues will require you to contact customer support at your old registrar to find out what’s causing the error. In these cases, the faster you contact customer support, the faster you’ll be able to deal with the issue and transfer your domain.
Why does it take so long?
There are several factors that contribute to the time it takes for your domain transfer. In a nutshell, it’s important to remember that the old and new registrars need to communicate, verify, and synchronize information. This can take time.
And sometimes, delays happen due to technical hiccups, registrar policies, or even the specific domain extension’s rules. As long as you’ve done everything correctly on your side, all you can do is wait for the five to seven days period.
Are there any costs involved?
The costs to transfer a domain vary. Typically, you can expect to pay between $20- $30, depending on your new registrar.
It’s also important to note that some registrars may also charge you for the domain renewal, which can range between $10 – $20.
So, to be on the safe side, you’ll need to budget around $30 – $50.
How long does a domain transfer take: summary 📌
As we wrap up this guide on how long does a domain transfer take, remember that the key to a smooth domain transfer lies in being informed. Navigating the intricacies of domain transfers requires a clear understanding of the process and the factors influencing its timeline.
As we’ve discussed, the process involves three key areas: verifying your domain transfer, preparing the domain transfer, and submitting it. This typically takes five to seven days.
However, as mentioned above, there are instances where things can take a little longer. For example, if you have a brand new domain that is still under ICANN’s 60-Day Rule, or if there are outstanding fees on the side of your old registrar.
Whatever the case may be, we hope this guide has given you a clear understanding of what to expect during the domain transfer process. Most importantly, we hope that once you’ve done what you can on your side, you remember that sometimes waiting is a part of the process. ➡️
If you’re thinking about transferring your domain to a new registrar, we recommend checking out our roundup of the best domain name registrars to get a deeper understanding of your options.
