Domain Documentation

Domain Transfers

Domain transfers let you move a domain from another registrar to Sitequest, or prepare a domain for transfer away from Sitequest. Every transfer uses an authorization code (auth code) and a transfer lock to prevent unauthorized moves.

Transferring a Domain to Sitequest

Before You Start

Make sure the following requirements are met at your current registrar:

  • The domain is unlocked (transfer lock disabled)
  • You have the auth code (also called EPP code or transfer key)
  • The domain was registered or last transferred at least 60 days ago
  • The domain is not expired or in a redemption period
  • WHOIS contact email is accessible (some TLDs require confirmation via email)

Steps

  1. Go to Domains in your dashboard and click Transfer Domain
  2. Enter the domain name you want to transfer
  3. Enter the auth code provided by your current registrar
  4. Complete the checkout process
  5. The transfer will be initiated automatically

Transfers typically complete within 1-5 days, depending on the TLD and the releasing registrar. Some registrars require you to confirm the transfer via email.

What Happens During a Transfer

  • Your domain's remaining registration period is preserved and extended by one year
  • DNS records may be reset depending on the TLD — update them after the transfer completes
  • WHOIS privacy settings from the previous registrar are not carried over

Transferring a Domain Away from Sitequest

Getting Your Auth Code

  1. Open the Domains section in your dashboard
  2. Select the domain you want to transfer
  3. Click Get Auth Code
  4. Copy the auth code and provide it to your new registrar

Auth codes are single-use and time-limited. Request a new one if it expires before you complete the transfer.

Disabling Transfer Lock

Domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. Before transferring away:

  1. Open the domain in your dashboard
  2. Disable the Transfer Lock toggle
  3. Initiate the transfer at your new registrar

Re-enable transfer lock if you decide not to proceed with the transfer.

Not all TLDs support transfer lock. If the toggle is not available, your TLD does not require it.

Transfer Lock

Transfer lock (also called registrar lock) prevents a domain from being transferred without your explicit action. It is a security feature that protects against unauthorized or accidental transfers.

  • Enabled by default on all supported TLDs
  • Must be disabled before transferring the domain to another registrar
  • Can be toggled in your domain settings
  • Has no effect on DNS, email, or website functionality

Troubleshooting

Issue Cause Solution
Transfer rejected Auth code is incorrect or expired Request a new auth code from the current registrar
Transfer pending for days Awaiting confirmation from previous registrar Check your WHOIS contact email for a confirmation link
Cannot request auth code Domain is within 60-day lock period Wait until the lock period expires
Transfer lock toggle unavailable TLD does not support registrar lock No action needed — proceed with the transfer