Transferring your domain to a new registrar might seem straightforward, but if not done carefully, it can lead to website downtime, email disruptions, or even lost DNS settings. By following the right steps in the correct order, you can ensure a seamless transition without affecting your business operations. This guide will walk you through the process to safely move your domain while keeping your website, email, and other services running smoothly.
Step 1: Review Current DNS Settings
Before initiating the transfer, verify the DNS settings for your domain. Log in to your current registrar’s control panel and take note of the current nameservers and DNS records, including A, MX, CNAME, and TXT records. If your registrar provides DNS hosting and you plan to move it, consider migrating DNS to a third-party provider like Cloudflare or Amazon Route 53 before transferring the domain.
Step 2: Unlock Your Domain & Get the Authorization Code
To prepare the domain for transfer, disable the domain lock in your current registrar’s settings and request the EPP code. If WHOIS privacy protection is enabled, disable it, as some registrars require this for a successful transfer.
Step 3: Initiate Transfer at the New Registrar
Start a domain transfer request at your new registrar. Enter the domain name and the EPP code, then verify domain ownership by confirming the transfer request via email.
Step 4: Keep DNS Records Active
To prevent downtime, ensure that DNS settings remain active throughout the transfer. If your current registrar manages DNS and will remove it upon transfer, switch to a third-party DNS provider before transferring. Update your domain’s nameservers at your current registrar before initiating the transfer and ensure all DNS records are correctly replicated if using a new DNS provider.
Step 5: Approve the Transfer & Monitor Progress
Once the transfer is initiated, check your email for a transfer approval request and approve it promptly. Monitor the transfer status, as it may take up to five to seven days to complete.
Step 6: Verify After Transfer
After the transfer is complete, log in to your new registrar and confirm all domain settings. Check that nameservers remain correct and verify that your website, email, and other services are functioning as expected.
Step 7: Cancel Services with the Old Registrar (If Needed)
Once you have confirmed that everything is working, cancel any unneeded services with the old registrar. Ensure that auto-renewal is disabled to avoid unwanted charges.
Need Help?
If all this is sounding a little too “techy” feel free to reach out. With the purchase of a Pro Support Time Block, we can help you plan an execute the transfer with no disruption in services.