Transferring a domain between registrars

Why is Domain Transfer Between Registrars Important?

Domain Transfer is a process where the management of a domain is moved from one registrar to another. This is typically done to achieve better pricing, stronger support services, or centralized service management. However, if performed without knowledge of technical details, it can lead to website downtime, loss of emails, or even domain abuse. In this article, we will review all steps of domain transfer, focusing on the EPP code, transfer lock, 60-day restriction, and timing tips.

Prerequisites for Domain Transfer: Check Before You Start

Before starting the transfer process, ensure your domain meets the following conditions. Otherwise, the transfer will fail.

1. The Domain Must Be at Least 60 Days Old Since Registration or Last Transfer

According to ICANN rules, any domain (except country-code domains like .ir) cannot be transferred within 60 days of initial registration or the last transfer. This restriction is designed to prevent frequent moves and abuse. If your domain was registered less than 60 days ago, you must wait.

Common Mistake: Some users think renewing the domain resets this restriction. However, renewal does not affect the registration date and only changes the expiration date.

2. The Domain Must Be Unlocked

Most registrars lock your domain by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. To transfer, you must disable this lock in the source registrar's user panel. This option is usually labeled Registrar Lock or Transfer Lock in the domain management section.

3. WHOIS Information Must Be Up-to-Date

The destination registrar typically sends a confirmation email to the address registered in WHOIS. If your admin or registrant email is outdated or incorrect, the process will stop. Before transferring, check your domain's WHOIS and update it if necessary.

Step One: Obtain the EPP Code (Transfer Code)

The EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) code, also known as the transfer code, is a unique string issued by the source registrar to verify domain ownership. This code usually consists of letters and numbers and is required for domains like .com, .net, .org, and many others.

How to Obtain the EPP Code

• Log into your current registrar's user panel.
• Go to the domain management section and find the option Get EPP Code or Authorization Code.
• Copy the code. Note that some registrars send the code to your email.

Technical Note: The EPP code is usually valid for 12 to 24 hours. If you do not start the transfer within this period, you will need to obtain a new code.

Real Example of an EPP Code

EPP Code: 3F8A2B1C-4D5E-6F7G-8H9I-0J1K2L3M4N5O

You will enter this code in the second step at the destination registrar.

Step Two: Initiate the Transfer Process at the Destination Registrar

After obtaining the EPP code and ensuring the lock is open, go to the new registrar (e.g., ServerNet) and select the Transfer Domain option. Follow these steps:

1. Enter your domain name.
2. Paste the EPP code in the relevant field.
3. Pay the transfer fee (usually equivalent to one year of domain renewal).
4. Check DNS settings. To avoid interruption of current services (website, email), configure DNS records at the new registrar before or immediately after the transfer.

Managing DNS During Transfer

Many users think domain transfer automatically moves DNS settings. This is a mistake. DNS is a separate service and must be managed independently. If you use the previous registrar's DNS, you can still use it for up to 48 hours after the transfer, but it's better to copy your records to the new registrar.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to copy MX (email) and A (website) records causes service interruption. Always back up your DNS records.

Step Three: Confirm the Email and Wait for Transfer Completion

After submitting the request, the destination registrar sends a confirmation email to the admin or registrant address in WHOIS. You must click the link in the email to approve the transfer. Otherwise, the process will automatically cancel after 5 to 7 days.

Transfer Timeline

• Generic Domains (.com, .net, .org): Usually takes 5 to 7 business days. This includes a 5-day waiting period during which the source registrar can reject the transfer.
• Country-Code Domains (.ir): The transfer process for .ir domains is different and requires approval through the nic.ir system. The EPP code does not apply to these domains, and transfer is done via a special form.

Timing Tip: Never start a transfer on holidays or close to the domain's expiration date. If your domain expires during the transfer, the process stops, and you may lose the domain. Act at least 2 weeks before expiration.

Common Domain Transfer Issues and Solutions

1. Invalid EPP Code

If you enter the EPP code incorrectly or the code has expired, the destination registrar will show an error. Solution: Obtain a new code from the source registrar and try again.

2. Transfer Lock is Active

Even if you disabled the lock in the panel, the source registrar might automatically re-enable it. Check the lock status again before starting the transfer.

3. Confirmation Email Not Received

The confirmation email may go to the spam folder, or the WHOIS email address may be outdated. In this case, contact the destination registrar's support to manually confirm the process.

4. Transfer Rejected by the Source Registrar

Some registrars reject transfers for security or commercial reasons. In this case, contact their support to inquire about the reason. Usually, the issue is related to the lock or WHOIS information.

Final Tips for a Successful Domain Transfer

• Back Up DNS: Before any action, prepare a text file of all your DNS records. You can do this with online tools like dig or through the registrar's panel.
• Check SSL: If you use SSL, domain transfer does not affect the certificate, but if DNS changes, SSL validity may be temporarily disrupted. Recheck SSL after the transfer.
• Use Hosting Services: If you transfer your domain and hosting to the same registrar (e.g., ServerNet, which offers integrated hosting and domain services), management becomes simpler. But still follow the technical steps carefully.
• Proper Timing: Start the transfer during low-traffic hours (e.g., midnight) so you have enough time to resolve any issues if they arise.

Domain transfer between registrars, if done carefully, is a straightforward and hassle-free process. By following the tips in this article, you can prevent service interruption and safely move your domain to a new registrar. If you encounter any issues at any step, contact the destination registrar's technical support.