Domain name transfer: how does it work by hosting party?

Introduction

Want to move your domain name to another hosting party? That's not a problem: transferring your domain name is not complicated and it can be done in no time. However, when transferring your domain name, there are a few things you need to take into account.

What is a domain transfer and why should you do it?

A domain transfer is the process of transferring the registration of a domain name from one registrar (the company where the domain was originally registered) to another registrar. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as seeking better prices, additional services or better customer support at another registrar.

During a domain transfer, the domain name remains unchanged, but the registrar responsible for managing the domain and maintaining contact and DNS information is changed. It is important to note that a domain move does not affect the content of your Web site or e-mail services. These will continue to function as before, as long as the DNS settings are configured correctly at the new registrar.

Moving a domain name usually requires some preparation and coordination between the current and new registrar. There are specific steps and procedures to follow, such as obtaining an authentication code (also known as an EPP code or move token) and unlocking the domain from the current registrar, to ensure a smooth and successful move.

Domain name transfer: Roadmap

Moving a domain name from one registrar to another can seem a bit complicated, but by following the following steps, you can make the process go smoothly:

Step 1: Preparation

Check if your domain name is eligible for transfer. Some domains cannot be transferred within 60 days of registration or previous transfer. Also make sure your contact information is up to date, as this is how the new registrar will contact you.

Step 2: Unlock your domain

Log into your current registrar's control panel and look for an option to unlock your domain or remove the "registrar lock. This will prepare your domain for transfer.

Step 3: Request authentication code

Request the 'authentication code', 'EPP code' or 'move token' from your current registrar. This code is a unique string of characters required for domain transfer.

Step 4: Choose a new registrar

Find a new registrar you want to move your domain to. Make sure that this registrar supports the domain extension (e.g., .com, .nl, .org) you want to move. Start the move at the new registrar: Log into the new registrar's control panel and look for the option to move or transfer a domain. Enter your domain name and the authentication code previously obtained.

Step 5: Confirm the move

You will receive an email from the new registrar asking you to confirm the move. Follow the instructions in the email to approve the move. Wait for completion: The move of your domain may take several hours to a week, depending on the registrars involved. Keep an eye on your e-mail for updates and any additional instructions.

Step 6: Check the DNS settings

After the move is complete, check the DNS settings at the new registrar to make sure they are correct and match those of your old registrar. This will ensure that your website and email address continue to work correctly.

Step 7: Complete the nameservers configuration

If you have web hosting and domain registration with different providers, be sure to update the nameservers at the new registrar to point to your web hosting provider. This will ensure that your Web site and e-mail continue to function smoothly after the move.

Step 8: Check the move

Finally, verify that the move was successful by entering your domain name into a browser and seeing if your website displays correctly. You can also perform a WHOIS search to verify that the registrar has updated to your new provider.

Step 9: Monitor the operation of your website and email

Please monitor your website and email closely over the next few days to make sure everything is working properly. Should you experience any problems, please contact your new registrar for support.

Step 10: Terminate your old registrar

After confirming that everything is working correctly, remember to notify your old registrar of the completed move and cancel any remaining services with them. This will avoid unnecessary costs and ensure your account is up to date.

Parties where you can move your domain name

We list the popular registrars in the Netherlands and explain how to move your domain name for each party:

TransIP

Transferring .nl and .eu domain extensions at Transip can be done by simply entering the transfer code, which you can request from your current registrar. For .com domain extensions, an agreement must also be given by your current provider to complete the transfer.

SIDN

SIDN is the foundation responsible for managing .nl domain names and works with hundreds of registrars in the Netherlands. You cannot register a domain directly with SIDN, but you can choose a registrar that works with SIDN.

Versio

Your .nl and .eu extensions are moved within minutes at Versio. All you need to do is request the transfer token from your current provider. Request a domain transfer, enter the code and the transfer is complete. The steps are the same for a .com extension, only it takes about 5 business days.

Antagonist

Get the transfer code from your current registrar and then cancel your contract with that party. Then you can place an order with Antagonist. Then you will receive an e-mail asking for the transfer code to complete the transfer.

Yourhosting

At Yourhosting they require the transfer code, which you need to request from your current hosting provider. You can then enter this transfer code in Yourhosting's online customer environment. This applies to .nl and .eu domain extensions. When transferring a .com domain extension your current webhosting provider also has to approve the transfer in order to complete the transfer.

Mijndomein

On the Mijndomein website, enter your domain name and click on the move box icon. Then you enter the transfer code you need to request from your current provider and click move. You choose your package and checkout. Your domain name has been transferred.

Neostrada

First you will need to get the authorization code from your current provider. When you have it, log in to Neostrada and click on Register Domain Name. Here you enter the domain name including extension(s) and click on continue. Then enter the authorization code and click on move.

Please note that your website does not automatically move with you!

When you move a domain name, your website does not automatically move with it. Only the web address is transferred, the rest is not. If you have a website hanging under your domain name, ask your new provider to move it at the same time as your domain name. It is advisable to have an expert do this. Especially if your website is well visited, it is important that visitors do not notice your move and your findability Google remains the same. Would you rather move your website yourself? Then ask your new hosting provider for a clear manual in which everything is clearly described.

How long does it take to move a domain name?

Transferring a domain name with the extension .nl generally takes only a few minutes. If you are moving a domain name with another extension, such as .com, it can take up to five days to complete the transfer.

Which extension to choose for domain name?

When you choose a domain name, you also need to determine the extension. Will you go for a site with a domain name ending in .nl, .eu. or .com? An extension is also known as a TLD, Top Level Domain. Factor these considerations into your choice:

• The extension affects your findability in Google. A website with the extension .nl scores better in the Netherlands than in Belgium or Germany. If you mainly want to appeal to the Dutch market, a .nl extension could be your best choice.
• Do you have an international or English-language website? Then choose the extension .com. Do you run a company that works throughout Europe? Then a .eu extension is worth considering.
• For a professional and reliable appearance, it is better to choose a country extension rather than a generic extension like .me or .biz.
• If you choose a country extension, it reduces the chances of link errors and findability problems. Customers are more likely to type in .nl or .com than any other extension.

Capture multiple domain extensions

Have you found the domain name for your business or product? Then register it with several commonly used extensions, such as .nl, .com and .eu. This will prevent others from using your domain name. You don't have to use those websites, as long as the domain registration is in your name. In general, .com extensions are more valuable, which can be interesting if you ever decide to sell your domain name.