Transferring a domain name may seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Whether you’re looking to switch to a new registrar for better service, lower costs, or to consolidate your domains under one provider, knowing how to transfer your domain name is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of transferring your domain name, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal downtime. Whether you’re transferring for the first time or just need a refresher, this guide will help you navigate the process with ease.
Prepare Your Domain for Transfer
Unlock your domain name
Sometimes, the company your domain name is registered with will lock it. This is a security measure that helps prevent unauthorised transfers. You can check if your domain name is locked and unlock it via the login portal your domain name registrar provides to manage your domain name.
Here are some guides from other popular domain registrars on how to unlock your domain name:
- Unlock your domain name with GoDaddy
- Unlock your domain name with Crazy Domains
- Unlock your domain name with NameCheap
- Unlock your domain name with Bluehost
- Unlock your domain name with WebCentral
Verify contact information
In many cases, you will receive a confirmation link via email. The email will be sent to the Registrant Contact Email Address assigned to your domain name. It’s important to check what the email is set to and change it if necessary. This will help you ensure that you receive the confirmation link via email and authorise the transfer process to go ahead.
Your current domain name registrar should allow you to view and edit your Registrant Contact Email Address via their client portal.
Obtain an authorisation code (EPP Code)
Most domains require an EPP code (also known as an authorisation code) to transfer your domain to a new provider. This code acts as a security key and must be provided to your new registrar during the transfer process.
However, not all domain extensions use an EPP code. Here are some specific cases:
- .NZ Domain Names: Instead of an EPP code, .NZ domains use a UDAI Code, which is generated by your current registrar and is valid for 30 days.
- .UK Domain Names: These domains use an IPS-TAG system. Your new registrar will provide you with their IPS-TAG, which you’ll need to give to your current registrar to complete the transfer.
Here are some guides from other popular registrars on how to obtain your EPP Code via their client portal:
- Obtain your domain name’s EPP Code from Godaddy
- Obtain your domain name’s EPP Code from Crazy Domains
- Obtain your domain name’s EPP Code from NameCheap
- Obtain your domain name’s EPP Code from Bluehost
- Obtain your domain name’s EPP Code from WebCentral
Ensure your domain name is not in the cooling-off period
Most domains cannot be transferred within the first 60 days of registration or recent transfer. This is a standard policy enforced by ICANN to prevent fraudulent activity. If your domain name is within the cooling-off period, you will need to wait until it has ended.
How to transfer a domain
After unlocking your domain name, verifying the contact information, and obtaining your EPP code (or UDAI code for .NZ domains and IPS-TAG for .UK domains), you’re ready to initiate the domain transfer.
Most domain registrars offer a straightforward process for submitting a domain transfer through their websites. Simply look for a domain transfer page or section on your new registrar’s website and follow the provided instructions. If you’re planning to transfer your domain to VentraIP, the process is just as simple — keep reading to learn more.
Transfer a domain name to VentraIP
To transfer your domain to VentraIP, navigate to the domain transfer page on our website. You’ll need to enter your domain name and the corresponding EPP code (or UDAI/IPS-TAG, depending on your domain extension). Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the transfer process. Our platform is designed to make the transition smooth and hassle-free, ensuring that your website remains up and running throughout the transfer.
Feel free to refer to our support articles if you get stuck:
Confirm the transfer of your domain
Once you’ve submitted the transfer request, you’ll likely receive a confirmation email to your Registrant Contact Email Address. Be sure to click on the confirmation link in the email to authorise the transfer. The transfer process usually takes a few days, depending on the domain extension and current registrar, but you can monitor the progress through your new registrar’s control panel.
Post-Transfer Checklist
After the transfer is complete, there are a few essential steps to take:
- Verify the Transfer: Log into your VIPControl account and ensure that your domain has been successfully transferred.
- Update DNS Settings: If necessary, update your DNS settings to ensure your website and email services continue to function smoothly.
- Re-enable Domain Privacy: If you had domain privacy enabled before the transfer, consider re-enabling it to protect your personal information.
Potential Issues and how to solve them
Even with careful preparation, you may encounter some challenges during the domain transfer process. Here are a few common issues and their solutions:
- Transfer Denied: This can happen if your domain is still locked, your EPP code is incorrect, or the contact information isn’t verified. Double-check these details and try again.
- Transfer Delays: If your transfer takes longer than expected, contact both your current and new registrar’s support teams for assistance.
- Authorisation Issues: If you don’t receive the confirmation email, verify that your contact information is correct and check your spam folder.
If you encounter any of these problems, please contact our support team.
Why Transfer your domain name to VentraIP
When it comes to managing your domain name, you need a registrar that offers not only reliability but also a range of features and support that make your life easier. Here are some compelling reasons why transferring your domain name to VentraIP is the best decision you can make:
1. Free DNS Hosting
VentraIP provides complete DNS hosting at no extra cost. Our user-friendly portal allows you to easily add, modify, or remove your DNS records, giving you full control over your domain’s configuration.
2. Free Email and Web Forwarding
Take advantage of our free email and web forwarding services. You can forward emails sent to your domain to another email address or redirect your domain to another website, making it easy to manage your online presence.
3. Free WHOIS ID Protection
Protect your personal information with free WHOIS ID protection on selected domain extensions. This service shields your contact details from being publicly visible in the WHOIS database, enhancing your privacy and security.
4. auDA ISS & ICANN Accredited Registrar
As an auDA ISS-certified and ICANN-accredited registrar, VentraIP is a trusted provider for your domain name registrations. Our accreditations ensure that we meet the highest standards in the industry, giving you peace of mind.
5. Instant Domain Name Registration
With VentraIP, your domain name registration is processed instantly once payment is received. You won’t have to wait around—your domain will be ready to use immediately.
6. 24/7 Australian Support
Our all-Australian support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any issues or questions. Whether it’s day or night, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are here to help you every step of the way.
7. No Hidden Costs
At VentraIP, transparency is key. Unlike some domain providers, we don’t hit you with hidden fees. All our added features, like DNS hosting and email forwarding, are included at no extra cost.
8. Easy Management
Our self-service portal makes domain management a breeze. You’ll have full control over your domain names and associated services with an intuitive and straightforward interface.
Transferring your domain to VentraIP means more than just switching registrars — it means gaining access to a suite of powerful tools, top-notch support, and transparent pricing. Make the move today and experience the difference VentraIP can make for your online presence.
Common questions about domain name transfers
How long does a domain name transfer take?
Most domain name transfers will take 5-7 days to complete. If you have an AU domain name, it will take 2 days.
How much does it cost to transfer my domain name?
Any AU domain name transfer is free. You will need to renew all other domain names upon transfer. Our domain name registration, transfer, and renewal fees are on our website.
If your domain requires renewal during the transfer, you won’t lose any time from your current registration. Instead, one additional year will be added to your existing registration period.
Will my website experience downtime during the domain transfer?
Typically, domain transfers do not cause website downtime. As long as your DNS settings remain unchanged, your website and email services should continue to function normally during the transfer.
Some domain registrars provide a free DNS service that only functions while your domain is registered with them. We recommend checking with your current registrar to ensure your DNS settings will continue to work after the transfer is complete.
Can I transfer an expired domain?
In most cases, you cannot transfer an expired domain. Before initiating the transfer, you will need to renew it with your current registrar.
Need Help? Contact VentraIP Today!
Switching your domain registrar can be a big decision, but with VentraIP, you’re choosing a partner that prioritises your needs every step of the way. From free DNS hosting and WHOIS protection to 24/7 Australian support, we’re here to make managing your domain as simple and secure as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with your domain transfer, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly support team. We’re here to help you get started and ensure a smooth, hassle-free transition. Contact VentraIP today, and let us take care of your domain needs.
