Prepare a domain transfer while keeping the website and email running Print

Quick answer

A registrar transfer changes where the domain registration is managed. It does not automatically migrate website files, mailboxes, or every DNS record. Plan those services separately and confirm extension-specific transfer rules.

Before you start

Verify the current registrar, registrant control, expiry date, transfer status, and contact access. Some registrations or recent ownership changes can impose transfer locks. Check the current registrar's process before making contact changes that might affect eligibility.

Steps

1. Export or record the authoritative DNS zone and identify which provider will continue serving it. Confirm that its service will remain active during and after the registrar transfer.
2. Check eligibility, fees, renewal effects, and any lock with both registrars. Obtain the transfer authorization code only through the secure current account and provide it through the gaining registrar's approved form.
3. Review the gaining registrar's requested nameservers and avoid an unplanned DNS change. Complete owner confirmations through trusted messages and monitor the actual transfer status.
4. After completion, verify registrar ownership, expiry, lock state, nameservers, website HTTPS, and inbound/outbound mail. Update the renewal and recovery records.

Verify the result

The registration should appear in the intended account while the same approved DNS services continue resolving. Retain the old service until its dependencies and cancellation terms are understood.

Troubleshooting and recovery

If a transfer is denied or delayed, use the explicit registrar status and current policy. Do not assume a fixed completion time or bypass a lock through unrelated account edits.

Related help

• Plan a website hosting migration before changing DNS
• Change nameservers without losing email and verification records
• Verify a domain renewal instead of relying only on auto-renew

Official references

• ICANN domain transfer questions

Reviewed October 31, 2026. Interfaces, vendor availability, and account features can change. Check your current account before making changes.