The time required to transfer a domain depends on the registrar, the domain extension, and the specific circumstances of the transfer. Generally, domain transfers take anywhere from 24 hours to 7 days to complete.
Typical Transfer Timeline #
1. Transfer Initiation #
- Once you provide the EPP Code and initiate the transfer at the new registrar (e.g., OzSpeed), the process begins immediately.
- Timeframe: Same day.
2. Approval from Current Registrar #
- The current registrar sends an email to the registrant or administrative contact to approve or deny the transfer.
- Action Required: You must approve the transfer promptly.
- Timeframe: 1–2 days.
3. Registrar Processing #
- After approval, the current registrar releases the domain to the new registrar.
- The new registrar processes the transfer and notifies you when it’s complete.
- Timeframe: 5–7 days (or sooner, depending on the registrars involved).
Factors Affecting Transfer Time #
- Domain Extension:
- Generic TLDs (e.g.,
.com,.net) typically follow the standard timeline of 5–7 days. - Country-code TLDs (e.g.,
.uk,.au) may have different processes, sometimes requiring manual intervention.
- Generic TLDs (e.g.,
- Registrar Efficiency:
- Some registrars process transfers faster than others.
- Approval Delays:
- Failure to approve the transfer promptly via email can delay the process.
- Pending Payments or Expiration:
- Domains with outstanding payments or nearing expiration may require resolution before transfer.
How to Speed Up the Domain Transfer #
- Approve Emails Quickly:
- Monitor your email inbox (and spam/junk folders) for approval requests and act immediately.
- Unlock the Domain in Advance:
- Ensure the domain is unlocked and the EPP Code is ready before initiating the transfer.
- Verify Contact Details:
- Ensure the email associated with the domain’s WHOIS record is valid and accessible.
- Contact Registrars:
- Reach out to both the losing and gaining registrars to expedite the process if needed.
Troubleshooting Delayed Transfers #
- Transfer Rejected:
- Ensure the domain is not within ICANN’s 60-day lock period after registration or a previous transfer.
- Verify that the EPP Code is correct.
- Domain Still Locked:
- Confirm with the current registrar that the domain is unlocked for transfer.
- Pending Delete Phase:
- If the domain has entered the pending delete phase, it is no longer transferable.
Additional Tips: #
- Plan Ahead: Start the transfer process at least two weeks before the domain’s expiration to avoid service disruptions.
- Track Progress: Use the new registrar’s dashboard to monitor the transfer status.
- Know Your Redemption Period: Expired domains may need to be renewed before they can be transferred.
