How To Transfer A Domain Name Securely?
Have you just bought a domain name and need to transfer it to your account? In this guide we take you through the steps on how to safely trasnfer your domain without complications.
Embedded Files
How to Securely Transfer Your Domain Name?
How to Securely Transfer Your Domain Name?
Understanding how to transfer a domain is the single most important skill for protecting your digital real estate. If a transfer is mishandled, your asset can be locked in limbo, or worse, lost entirely. This guide breaks down exactly how to manage the handover process across the world's major registrars and registries.
In the world of professional domain investing, when you buy a domain the "deal" is only half the battle. Whether you have won an auction on GoDaddy, negotiated a private sale with another investor, or used a secure marketplace like Sedo, the final hurdle is moving that asset safely into your control.
The Anatomy of a Domain Transfer
The Anatomy of a Domain Transfer
Unlike a new registration where the name appears instantly in your account, a purchased domain must be "pushed" or "pulled" from one registrar to another. This is a security-first process designed to prove that the rightful owner has authorized the move.
1. The Secure Escrow Phase
1. The Secure Escrow Phase
Before any technical move happens, ensure your money and the domain are protected.
Marketplace Sales: Platforms like Sedo or GoDaddy Auctions act as an escrow agent. They hold your payment in a neutral account and only release it to the seller once the domain transfer is confirmed.
Private Sales: If you are buying directly from an investor, never send money via "Friends and Family" apps. Use a dedicated service like Escrow.com to ensure the transaction is legally binding.
2. The Transfer "Keys" (Auth-Codes vs. IPS Tags)
2. The Transfer "Keys" (Auth-Codes vs. IPS Tags)
To initiate a move, you need the correct authorization from the seller. This varies depending on where the domain is registered.
For Global Domains (.com, .net, .org): You need an Auth-Code (also known as an EPP Code). The seller must "Unlock" the domain in their registrar (GoDaddy.com, Namecheap.com, etc.) and provide you with this alphanumeric key.
For UK Domains (.uk, .co.uk): There is no Auth-Code. Instead, the UK registry (Nominet.uk) uses the IPS Tag system. The seller must manually change the "Tag" on the domain to match your registrar. Common tags include GODADDY, 123-REG, or STACK.
3. Initiating the Move with Your Registrar
3. Initiating the Move with Your Registrar
Once you have the code or the tag has been changed, log in to your preferred registrar (e.g., GoDaddy, 123 Reg, Dynadot, or IONOS) and navigate to the "Transfer In" section.
Enter the domain name and the Auth-Code.
You will typically be charged for a one-year renewal. This is a standard requirement that adds 12 months to the domain's current life—it is not a "penalty" fee.
Transfer Times and Security Locks
Transfer Times and Security Locks
The biggest point of confusion for new investors is how long the process takes. The clock starts ticking the moment you hit "Submit."
Global Domains (.com, .net, .org)
Transfer Time: Typically 5 to 7 days. This is a mandatory cooling-off period to prevent theft.
The 60-Day Lock: Under ICANN.org rules, you cannot transfer a .com domain to a different registrar within 60 days of it being newly registered or previously transferred. If you buy a "fresh" domain, you must wait for this lock to expire.
UK Domains (.uk, .co.uk)
Transfer Time: Often Instant to 24 hours. Because Nominet has a more direct system, once the IPS Tag is changed, the domain usually drops into your account almost immediately.
No Lock: Unlike .com domains, .uk assets have no 60-day transfer lock. You can move them as often as you need, providing high liquidity for fast-paced trading.
4. Final Approvals and Verification
4. Final Approvals and Verification
Keep a close watch on your inbox. Both the "Losing Registrar" (the seller's) and the "Gaining Registrar" (yours) will send verification emails. You must click the approval links in these emails to finalize the move. If these are ignored, the transfer will time out and fail.
Pro-Tip for Smart Investors
Pro-Tip for Smart Investors
If you buy a domain like aigozer.com that is currently under a 60-day ICANN lock, you don't have to wait to start your project. Simply ask the seller to update the Nameservers (DNS) to point to your server. This gives you full functional use of the website and email while you wait for the legal transfer window to open.
As a domain investor Maintaining absolute control over your digital assets is the hallmark of a successful investor. Secure your next acquisition today via SEDO.com or browse our prestige portfolio on our home page or check out our premium domains for sale.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse