Thinking of moving your domain to a new provider? Whether you’re upgrading hosting, rebranding, or centralizing your services, a smooth domain transfer is crucial. Unfortunately, many website owners face issues like downtime, lost emails, or DNS errors when transferring their domain. This guide will walk you through the benefits, process, common challenges, and professional tips for a secure transfer.
Why Transfer Your Domain?
A domain transfer ensures your web address is managed under the provider that best suits your business. Here are some reasons website owners, store managers, and small businesses transfer domains:
- Better Pricing: Reduce annual domain renewal costs.
- Centralized Management: Keep domain, hosting, and email under one provider.
- Improved Security: Enable advanced DNSSEC and 2FA protections.
- Faster Support: Get help from one provider instead of juggling multiple accounts.
- Seamless Integration: Easily connect domains with hosting, WordPress, and WooCommerce.
Step-by-Step Domain Transfer Process
- Unlock Your Domain: In your current registrar’s panel, remove domain lock.
- Obtain Authorization Code (EPP Code): Required for transfer verification.
- Choose New Registrar: Select a reliable provider for domain + hosting. For reliable and affordable hosting and domain services, we recommend Hostinger.
- Initiate Transfer: Enter your domain and EPP code at the new registrar.
- Verify Email Confirmation: Approve transfer via email link.
- Wait for Propagation: Transfers usually take 5–7 days.
- Update DNS Records: Ensure your website and emails work correctly post-transfer.
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them
- Domain Lock Issues: Always unlock before starting the process.
- Email Disruptions: Back up email accounts if linked to your domain.
- Wrong EPP Code: Double-check authorization codes for typos.
- Expired Domains: Renew before transfer to avoid failure.
- DNS Downtime: Pre-configure records in the new registrar to prevent site outages.
Pro Tips & Tools for Success
- Plan During Low Traffic: Transfer domains during non-peak hours.
- Use WHOIS Privacy: Protect your personal info post-transfer.
- Backup Website: Always keep site + email backups before transfer.
- Choose Fast DNS Providers: Faster resolution means better performance.
- Bundle Hosting & Domain: For cost savings, transfer both domain and hosting to Hostinger.
Final Checklist
✅ Domain unlocked
✅ EPP code obtained
✅ New registrar selected
✅ Transfer initiated
✅ Email verification approved
✅ DNS records updated
✅ Website tested post-transfer
Our Add-On WordPress Services
- Hosting Migration
- Live from Staging
- Post Migration Fixes
- Staging Site Setup
- WordPress Maintenance Plans
- WordPress Speed Optimization
Frequently Asked Questions About Domain Transfer
1. How long does a domain transfer take?
Most transfers take between 5–7 days, depending on the registrars involved.
2. Will my website go offline during transfer?
No, if DNS is configured correctly before the transfer, your site will stay online.
3. Do I need to renew my domain before transferring?
Yes, expired domains cannot be transferred. Always renew first if your domain is close to expiry.
4. Can I transfer my domain and hosting together?
Yes, and it’s recommended. It simplifies management and avoids downtime. We recommend Hostinger for bundled hosting and domain services.
5. Will my email accounts work after transfer?
Yes, but you need to set up MX records at your new registrar to avoid disruption.
6. Is there a cost for transferring a domain?
Yes, you typically pay for one year of renewal at the new registrar, but this extends your domain’s expiry date.
Conclusion
A domain transfer may sound technical, but with the right preparation and tools, it can be seamless. Moving your domain to a better provider ensures security, cost savings, and easier management.
👉 Need help with your domain transfer? Contact us today and let our experts handle it securely for you.