Before moving a domain: a transfer checklist that protects the website

2026-11-04 · Namelizer

A registrar transfer is not a hosting move. Moving a domain between registrars changes who manages its registration. It does not by itself migrate your website files, mailbox or DNS zone. Start by writing down which company handles each part. Otherwise a registrar checkout can become an accidental hosting project when an old bundled service stops.

Check eligibility before paying. For generic domains, ICANN lists restrictions including the first 60 days after registration or an earlier transfer. A change of registrant can also cause a lock. Disputes, holds and other restrictions may apply. Check the actual domain status with both registrars; country-code extensions can have different rules. A transfer offer is not evidence that your name is eligible today.

Save the DNS configuration first. Record the authoritative nameservers and export or copy the existing DNS records, especially mail records and verification entries. Ask whether the losing registrar will continue to host DNS after transfer. Do not change nameservers merely because a new provider suggests its defaults. Keeping the current service and moving it later can make problems easier to isolate.

Treat the authorization code as a secret. ICANN describes the AuthInfo code as protection against unauthorized transfers. Get it through the current registrar and enter it only in the intended receiving registrar. Do not paste it into a public support thread or domain-sale listing. Confirm that you control the contact mailbox and can respond to legitimate transfer notices before starting.

Close with two separate confirmations. Confirm the registration moved to the right account, then separately test the website and email. Record the new renewal date, renewal price and auto-renew setting instead of assuming the checkout explains future costs. Source: ICANN, 5 Things Every Domain Name Registrant Should Know About the Transfer Policy, https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/about-transfer-policy-2017-10-10-en . Check the current registrar and registry terms for your particular name.