Transferring a domain name to another owner is different from moving to another provider. In an ownership transfer, the registrant details of the domain itself change, while it can remain with the same registrar. This occurs when selling a domain name, during a company takeover, or when a freelancer transfers a domain to a client. This article explains how such a transfer works and what to watch out for.
What exactly is an ownership transfer
Every domain name’s WHOIS information shows who the holder (owner) is. This is different from the technical contact person or the registrar where the domain is registered. An ownership transfer means the holder details change, while the nameservers and hosting can simply stay the same. The domain therefore doesn’t need to move to another party for ownership to change.
This is different from moving a domain to another hosting provider. If you want to transfer both the hosting and the ownership, you combine both processes. You can read more about moving hosting in the article about switching to Tandata.
What information do you need
For an ownership transfer, you typically need the following:
- The full name and address details of the new owner
- A valid email address of the new owner (for confirmation)
- A Chamber of Commerce (KvK) number if it concerns a business
- Access to the domain’s management panel, or cooperation from the current registrar
Step-by-step plan for the transfer
Check the current holder details
Ask the current registrar or check the management panel to see who is officially registered as the holder. This must match the party requesting the transfer.
Gather the new owner’s details
Make sure you have the new holder’s name, address, and email address complete and correct. Errors here will delay the transfer.
Submit the change to the registrar
The current registrar processes the change of holder details. This can be done via a ticket, form, or the management panel, depending on the provider.
Confirm the transfer
The new owner often receives a confirmation email to agree to the ownership. Without this confirmation, the transfer will not proceed.
Check the WHOIS details afterwards
Once the change has been processed, check the WHOIS details to confirm that the new owner is correctly registered.
Common mistakes and pitfalls
A few things often go wrong during an ownership transfer:
- Domain expiring during the transfer: check the expiration date beforehand and renew the domain first if necessary, see also the article about domain names for registration and renewal.
- Email that stops working: if the new owner is also taking over the hosting and email, make sure MX records and settings for business email remain intact or are correctly reconfigured.
- Unclear payment agreements: establish who pays the domain’s annual costs after the transfer.
- Incorrect WHOIS details: a typo in the name or email address can block confirmation of the transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a domain also need to move during an ownership transfer?
No, that’s not necessary. You can change the holder details while the domain remains with the same registrar and hosting provider.
Can I transfer a domain name without the current owner’s consent?
No, the current holder must agree to the transfer. Without that confirmation, the change will not be processed.
Will my website still work during the transfer?
Yes, an ownership transfer normally has no effect on the website or email, as long as the nameservers don’t change.
How long does an ownership transfer take?
This varies by registrar and extension, but expect a few business days once both parties have submitted and confirmed their details correctly.
Conclusion
Transferring a domain name to another owner is about correctly changing the holder details with the registrar, separate from hosting or nameservers. Make sure the information is complete, agree on clear arrangements, and always check the WHOIS details afterwards.