Transferring a domain name to another provider may sound complicated, but essentially it comes down to requesting a transfer code (EPP code) and confirming the transfer. With the right preparation, your website or email won’t experience a moment of delay. In this article, you’ll learn step by step how to safely transfer a domain, where delays can come from, and how to prevent them.
What exactly is a domain transfer
In a domain transfer, only the registration of your domain name moves to a different registrar; your website and email continue to work as configured, as long as the DNS settings are correct. This is different from moving your hosting itself. You can transfer your domain without moving your website, and vice versa.
The transfer is secured with a unique transfer code (also called an auth code or EPP code). You request this code from your current provider and pass it on to the new provider to start the transfer.
Step-by-step plan: transferring a domain
Check the domain status
Make sure your domain isn’t locked (transfer lock) and that the registration hasn’t been renewed recently; some extensions apply a waiting period after renewal.
Request the transfer code
Log in with your current provider and request the EPP code or transfer code. This is often sent by email to the address registered with the domain.
Write down your current DNS settings
Copy down the existing DNS records (A, MX, TXT) before making any changes, so you can restore them exactly later.
Start the transfer with the new provider
Enter the domain and transfer code with the new provider. You’ll usually receive a confirmation email that you need to approve.
Check and restore the DNS
After the transfer, restore the DNS records as noted in step 3, so your website and email keep working without interruption.
The transfer code forms the link between the old and new provider.
Common problems
Most delays in a domain transfer are caused by one of the following:
- Transfer lock active: disable this first with your current provider before requesting the code.
- Outdated contact details: if the email address registered with the domain is no longer correct, the transfer code will never arrive. Check and update this first.
- Domain recently registered or renewed: many extensions apply a minimum period before a domain can be transferred.
- Incorrect or expired code: if in doubt, request a new code rather than waiting to see if it works anyway.
Not sure about the right settings for your domain? Check out the options at domain names for an explanation of registration and management.
Preventing downtime and email issues during the transfer
A domain transfer doesn’t have to affect your website or email, provided you copy the DNS records correctly. Pay particular attention to the MX records, as these determine where your email is delivered. If these are incorrect or empty after the transfer, incoming email won’t arrive.
If you’re moving your website and email to a new hosting provider at the same time, check in advance how the new environment is set up. An overview of what this involves can be found at switching to Tandata. For email hosted separately from your website, it’s wise to check the settings via business email, so that SPF, DKIM, and MX records are correct before you go live.
After the transfer, it may take some time before changes are visible everywhere, because DNS information needs to refresh globally. This is normal and can be monitored; if in doubt, consult the steps in our knowledge base via support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a domain transfer cause extra downtime for my website?
No, as long as the DNS records remain correct or are correctly copied over, your website will remain accessible during and after the transfer.
Where do I request my transfer code?
From your current provider, usually via the management panel in the domain settings. Sometimes you need to request this by phone or ticket.
Can I transfer my domain without moving the hosting?
Yes, that’s perfectly fine. Just make sure the DNS records continue pointing to your current hosting environment unchanged after the transfer.
How long is a transfer code valid?
This varies by registrar and extension, but a code is often only valid for a limited time. So only request the code shortly before you start the transfer.
Conclusion
Transferring a domain comes down to three things: disabling the transfer lock, correctly requesting the transfer code, and restoring the DNS records after the transfer. Do this carefully, and no one will notice the switch.