GoDaddy How to Transfer Domain: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring a domain can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process. If you’re searching for GoDaddy how to transfer domain instructions, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of transferring your domain to or from GoDaddy, covering prerequisites, potential pitfalls, and best practices to ensure a smooth transition.

Table of Contents

• Pre-Transfer Checklist
• How to Transfer a Domain to GoDaddy
• How to Transfer a Domain From GoDaddy
• Common Transfer Issues and Solutions
• Frequently Asked Questions

Pre-Transfer Checklist: What You Need Before Starting

Before initiating any domain transfer, there are several important requirements to check:

• Domain age: The domain must be at least 60 days old (ICANN rule)
• Unlocked status: The domain must be unlocked at the current registrar
• Authorization code: You’ll need the EPP code/transfer key
• Valid email: Admin contact email must be active and accessible
• No pending renewals: The domain shouldn’t be in redemption period

Where to Find Your EPP Code in GoDaddy

If transferring from GoDaddy, follow these steps to get your authorization code:

1. Log in to your GoDaddy account
2. Navigate to “My Products”
3. Click on “Domains”
4. Select the domain you want to transfer
5. Under “Additional Settings,” click “Get authorization code”
6. The code will be sent to your registered email address

How to Transfer a Domain to GoDaddy

Follow these detailed steps to successfully transfer your domain to GoDaddy:

Step 1: Prepare Your Domain at Current Registrar

Before initiating the transfer at GoDaddy, ensure your domain is ready at its current registrar:

• Unlock the domain (remove registrar lock)
• Obtain the EPP/authorization code
• Verify admin contact information is correct

Step 2: Initiate Transfer at GoDaddy

1. Log in to your GoDaddy account
2. Navigate to the “Domains” section
3. Click on “Transfer Domains”
4. Enter the domain name you want to transfer
5. Follow the prompts to add the domain to your cart
6. Complete the checkout process

Step 3: Approve the Transfer

After purchase, GoDaddy will send a transfer request to your current registrar. You’ll need to:

• Check your email for approval requests
• Approve the transfer when prompted
• Enter the authorization code when requested

How to Transfer a Domain From GoDaddy

If you want to move your domain away from GoDaddy, follow this process:

Step 1: Prepare Your GoDaddy Domain

1. Log in to your GoDaddy account
2. Navigate to “My Products” > “Domains”
3. Select the domain you want to transfer
4. Under “Additional Settings,” click “Manage DNS”
5. Disable “Domain Protection” if enabled
6. Click “Unlock Domain”
7. Request your authorization code

Step 2: Initiate Transfer at New Registrar

The exact steps vary by registrar, but generally:

• Sign up/log in to your new registrar account
• Find their domain transfer section
• Enter your domain name and authorization code
• Complete the transfer purchase

Step 3: Approve the Transfer from GoDaddy

GoDaddy will send an approval request to your admin email:

• Check your email (including spam folder)
• Click the approval link in the email
• Follow any additional prompts

Common Transfer Issues and Solutions

Even with proper preparation, you might encounter these common problems:

Authorization Code Not Working

If your EPP code is rejected:

• Double-check for typos (codes are case-sensitive)
• Request a new code if expired
• Contact GoDaddy support if issues persist

Transfer Taking Too Long

Domain transfers typically take 5-7 days. Delays might occur because:

• The current registrar hasn’t approved the transfer
• WHOIS information isn’t verified
• The domain is within 60 days of registration or previous transfer

Website Downtime During Transfer

To minimize downtime:

• Keep DNS settings at current host until transfer completes
• Consider changing nameservers after transfer
• Have a backup of your website files and database

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to transfer a domain to GoDaddy?

GoDaddy typically charges a one-year renewal fee for the domain when transferring in. Prices vary by TLD (.com, .net, etc.), but expect to pay similar to a new registration.

Will my website go down during transfer?

Not necessarily. If you keep your DNS settings the same and only change the registrar, your website should remain accessible. However, it’s always good practice to back up your site before any transfer.

How long does a GoDaddy domain transfer take?

Most transfers complete within 5-7 days, though some can take up to 10 days depending on registrar response times and verification processes.

Can I cancel a domain transfer?

Yes, transfers can usually be canceled within a short window after initiation. Contact GoDaddy support immediately if you need to stop a transfer in progress.

Conclusion: Mastering Domain Transfers with GoDaddy

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