Troubleshooting Domain Transfers

There are a number of common reasons why a domain transfer could fail.

• Approval from Admin Contact to submit the transfer
• Domain status is: locked , at the respective Registry A domain name registry is a database of all domain names registered in a top-level domain. A registry operator, also called a network information center (NIC), is the part of the Domain Name System (DNS) of the Internet that keeps the database of domain names, and generates the zone files which convert domain names to IP addresses.
• Incorrect Domain Transfer Authorization code
• Domain has undergone a transfer recently

Admin Contact Approval: The Administrative Contact for the domain must provide approval to the gaining Registrar prior to the Registrar submitting the transfer request. For some domains, the Registry will also require approval from the Admin contact via a separate process. See the domain specific section of this FAQ for any specifics. Ensure that the Admin contact email address is valid and accessible. This information can be reviewed via our WHOIS lookup.

Domain Status is: Locked: Domains all have a status which essentially toggles on or off the ability for the domain to be transferred. Different Registries use different terms to denote the status, however the status must show or infer 'ok' as opposed to 'Transfer Prohibited'. The status of a domain can be seen via a WHOIS lookup.

Incorrect Domain Transfer code: A domain's transfer code (often called an EPP transfer code) is a string of numbers, letters and characters. This code must be provided to the gaining Registrar and is submitted as part of the transfer request. For security purposes, the code can be long and complex. Ensure that the correct code is being used, or request from the current Registrar of the domain that a new code be generated.

Domain has undergone a transfer recently: Recently registered domains can be transferred to another Registrar only after 65 days. Domains that have existed for some time (>65 days) can only be transferred every 60 days. These are rules instituted by the respective Registry and not by Webnames nor any other Registrar.

See also: Registrar Transfer Frequency Limit

If a domain transfer is failing due to incorrect Admin info, domain status or transfer code, please initiate a new transfer using the correct information, or contact us for assistance.

 

See Also