Domain transfer: complete guide for transfers

Want to transfer your domain to another registrar? Maybe you've found a cheaper provider, or you're unhappy with the service. Transferring a domain is simpler than you think. In this guide, we explain step by step how it works.

Why would you transfer your domain?

There are various reasons to move your domain to another registrar:

• Lower prices - You've found a cheaper provider
• Better service - Your current registrar offers poor support
• Extras - The new registrar offers free WHOIS privacy or better DNS
• Consolidation - You want to manage all your domains with one party
• Bankruptcy - Your current registrar is going out of business

Before you start

Check if your domain can be transferred

A domain cannot always be transferred. Check these points:

• 60-day rule: After registration or previous transfer, you must wait at least 60 days
• Lock status: Your domain must not be "locked" (this is a security measure)
• Not expired: An expired domain cannot be transferred
• No disputes: There must be no legal disputes pending over the domain

Requirements

Make sure you have the following:

• Access to the email address linked to the domain
• Access to your account at the current registrar
• Credit card or payment method for the new registrar

Step-by-step: transfer .nl domain

Transferring a .nl domain to another registrar is done via the transfer token at SIDN.

Step 1: Request the transfer token

Log in to your current registrar and look for "domain transfer" or "transfer out". Request the transfer token there. This is a unique code you need.

Tip: The token is valid for 30 days. Only start the transfer when you're ready.

Step 2: Start the transfer at the new registrar

Go to your new registrar and choose "domain transfer" or "transfer in". Enter your domain name and the transfer token.

Step 3: Pay

With the transfer, you pay at least one year of domain registration in advance. This year is added to your current registration period.

Step 4: Confirm the transfer

SIDN sends a confirmation email to the email address associated with the domain. Click the confirmation link.

Step 5: Wait for completion

The transfer usually takes a few hours to a maximum of 5 business days. You'll receive confirmation when it's done.

Step-by-step: transfer .com/.net/.org domain

International domains use an EPP code (also called authcode).

Step 1: Unlock your domain

Log in to your current registrar and look for "domain lock" or "transfer lock". Turn this off.

Step 2: Request the EPP code

At the same registrar, request the EPP code or authcode. This is a password that proves you're the owner.

Step 3: Start the transfer at the new registrar

Enter your domain name and EPP code at the new registrar. Pay the transfer costs (usually one year registration).

Step 4: Confirm via email

You'll receive emails from both the old and new registrar. Confirm the transfer where needed.

Step 5: Wait for completion

International transfers can take 5-7 days. ICANN gives the old registrar the opportunity to object (which rarely happens).

Common problems and solutions

"Domain is locked"

Problem: You can't start the transfer because the domain is locked.

Solution: Log in to your current registrar and look for "domain lock" or "registrar lock". Turn this off before starting the transfer.

"Token expired"

Problem: Your transfer token is no longer valid.

Solution: Request a new token from your current registrar. Tokens are usually valid for 30 days.

"Email not received"

Problem: You're not getting the confirmation email.

Solution: Check your spam folder. Verify the email address associated with the domain is correct. Contact the registrar.

"Transfer rejected"

Problem: The old registrar refuses the transfer.

Solution: Check if you meet all requirements (60-day rule, no lock, not expired). Contact the current registrar for explanation.

Checklist for domain transfer

Use this checklist to not forget anything:

• [ ] Check if domain is not locked
• [ ] Check if 60-day waiting period has passed
• [ ] Ensure email address on domain is correct
• [ ] Request token/EPP code
• [ ] Make backup of DNS settings
• [ ] Start transfer at new registrar
• [ ] Confirm via email
• [ ] Check DNS after completion
• [ ] Test if website and email work

What does a domain transfer cost?

The transfer itself is usually free, but you do pay at least one year registration in advance at the new registrar. This year is added to your current registration period.

Frequently asked questions

Will I lose my website during the transfer? No, if your DNS settings are correct, your website stays online. Do make a backup of your DNS records just in case.

What happens to my email? If your email runs through the domain, check after the transfer that MX records are set up correctly.

Can I cancel during the transfer? With most registrars you can cancel the transfer as long as it's not completed. Check the terms.

How long does a transfer take? .nl: a few hours to 5 business days. International domains: 5-7 days.