Domains play a huge part in having an online presence. This guide will show you how to check for domain eligibility for transfer.

Whether you want to change domain registrars, consolidate your domain portfolio, or explore better options, understanding the domain transfer eligibility process is essential. 

Understanding domain transfer

It’s moving a domain name from one domain registrar to another. It gives you control over your domain while benefiting from the new registrar’s services and features.

There are several reasons why individuals and businesses decide to transfer their domains. One common motivation is finding a registrar that better suits their needs.

Additionally, domain transfers may be necessary for a company rebranding, mergers and acquisitions, or domain portfolio consolidation.

Before initiating a domain transfer, reviewing your current registrar’s policies is crucial. Each registrar may have specific policies in place for domain transfers. 

To have a smooth transfer process, ensure the domain is clean:

• It’s not involved in any legal disputes.
• The domain must be unlocked at the current registrar.
• The domain has been active with the current registrar for over 60 days.
• Should not have outstanding financial obligations related to the domain.
• Must have the Auth/EPP code for the domain.

Preparing for domain transfer

1. Backup Website and Email data- this precautionary measure ensures no data is lost during the transfer process. Create a complete backup of your website files, including any databases, and securely store them offline. 
2. Updating DNS settings- these settings determine how domain requests are routed to the appropriate servers. Consult the documentation provided by your new registrar to obtain the required DNS records and update them accordingly.
3. Update your contact information- it should be up-to-date in your current registrar’s account. It includes your name, email address, and phone number.
4. Mitigating downtime- schedule the transfer during low website traffic, such as during off-peak hours or weekends.
5. Inform clients and shareholders about service interruptions and prevent inconveniencing them.

Checking eligibility for domain transfer

1. Go to whois.icann.org and enter your domain name in the search bar. Click on lookup 

Look at domain status; this section has locked or unlocked and delete or update statuses. If the status is “Unlocked,” your domain is eligible for transfer. You can proceed with the transfer process.

2. If the status is “Locked,” your domain is locked and cannot be transferred. In this case, you need to contact your current registrar to request them to unlock the domain.
3. Obtain your current registrar’s Auth/EPP code. This code acts as a security measure to authorize the transfer.
4. Initiate the transfer process with your new registrar. They will guide you through the steps and documentation required for the transfer.

Before transferring to a new registrar, consider these;

• Price- domain registrars offer a variety of pricing plans, so it’s important to compare prices before you make a decision. Some registrars offer discounts for multiple years of registration, so you may also want to consider that.
• Features- some domain registrars offer different features. Some things to look for include; Domain privacy protection, Transfer lock, and WhoisGuard.
• Customer support- If you ever have any problems with your domain name, you’ll need to be able to get in touch with customer support. Make sure to choose a registrar with a good reputation for customer service.
• Reputation- it’s important to choose a registrar with a good reputation. Research registrars online and read reviews to understand their reputation.
• Domain availability- some registrars offer more domain extensions than others. If you’re interested in a domain extension, check that the registrar you’re considering offers it.
• Domain transfer policies: Ensure you understand the registrar’s domain transfer policies before registering a domain name. Some registrars make it difficult to transfer domains, so you’ll want to avoid those if you plan on moving your domains in the future.

How long does it take?

Domain transfers typically take a few days to complete, although the exact duration can vary depending on several factors. 

The responsiveness of the losing registrar can influence the time required for a transfer, any manual verification steps, the domain extension, and the efficiency of the new registrar’s transfer process. 

Once the transfer is complete, confirm the successful transfer by verifying domain ownership in your new registrar’s account. 

Log in to the new registrar’s platform and ensure the transferred domain appears in your account with the updated expiration date. 

Review the WHOPS information for accuracy and enable any desired privacy protection services.

To sump up;

It is important to note that certain domain extensions may have longer transfer timeframes. Transferring a domain can be complex, but preparing enough makes it smooth.

Initiating the transfer involves submitting the transfer request, approving transfer authorization emails, monitoring the transfer process, and confirming the successful transfer. 

Following these steps, and emphasizing careful planning and preparation, ensures a smooth and successful domain transfer experience.