Thinking about moving your domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger, but unsure where to start? You’re not alone. Transferring a domain can feel daunting, yet it’s an essential step if you’re looking to streamline your web management or take advantage of new features and better pricing.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire domain transfer process, step by step. You’ll discover practical tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and exactly what you need to make your move hassle-free.
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How to Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger: A Step-by-Step Guide
Transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger can seem daunting if you’ve never done it before. But with the right guidance, the process is straightforward and rewarding, giving you more control and possibly better hosting services. Below, you’ll find a detailed walkthrough of every essential step, practical tips for a smooth transfer, as well as answers to the most common questions about moving a domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger.
Why Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?
Many website owners choose to transfer their domain to Hostinger for a variety of reasons, including:
- Simplified management: Hostinger offers domain and web hosting management from a single dashboard.
- Competitive pricing: Hostinger frequently has lower renewal rates and discounts for new transfers.
- Enhanced security and features: Hostinger often bundles features like WHOIS privacy and email forwarding at lower costs.
- One-stop support: Managing both your domain and hosting in one place can simplify troubleshooting and customer service.
Step-by-Step: Transferring Your Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger
Let’s break down the transfer into clear, actionable steps.
1. Prepare Your Domain on GoDaddy
Before initiating the transfer, a few settings on your GoDaddy account must be addressed:
- Ensure Domain Eligibility
- Your domain should be at least 60 days old.
- There shouldn’t be any recent changes to the registrant’s contact information.
- Remove Domain Protection & Privacy
- Disable any domain privacy or protection services, as these can block the transfer process.
- Unlock the Domain
- Domains are often locked to prevent unauthorized changes. In your GoDaddy dashboard, locate the domain you wish to transfer and select the option to unlock it.
- Obtain the Authorization (EPP) Code
- This code is essential for verification. Request the EPP code from GoDaddy; it will usually be emailed to the admin email on file.
2. Set Up the Transfer at Hostinger
Once you’ve prepared your domain, you can begin the process at Hostinger:
- Log into Your Hostinger Account
- If you don’t have one, create an account—it only takes a few moments.
- Find the Domain Transfer Section
- Look for options like “Transfer Domain” within your user dashboard.
- Enter Your Domain Name
- Type in the domain you want to transfer and confirm availability for transfer.
- Input the EPP Code
- Enter the authorization code you received from GoDaddy.
3. Confirm and Pay for the Transfer
- Review and Confirm Details
- Ensure all information is correct. This includes your email address, domain spelling, and any associated contact info.
- Pay the Transfer Fee
- Transferring a domain to Hostinger usually incurs a fee, which typically includes a one-year domain renewal. This ensures your domain registration does not lapse during the process.
- Authorize via Email
- Both Hostinger and GoDaddy may send confirmation emails. You’ll need to approve the transfer request through the link or instructions provided in these messages.
4. Finalize the Transfer
- Wait for the Process to Complete
- Depending on domain extension and registrar response, this step can take between a few hours and up to 7 days.
- Monitor Your Email
- You may receive updates or requests for additional verification.
- Check Domain Status
- Once the transfer is complete, your domain will appear in your Hostinger account. Manage all settings and renewals directly through Hostinger from now on.
Key Benefits of Transferring to Hostinger
Making the switch brings several advantages:
- Centralized Management: No more switching between service providers for hosting and domain issues.
- Improved User Interface: Hostinger’s dashboard is beginner-friendly yet feature-rich.
- Bundled Services: Email, privacy protection, and SSL can often be managed in one place.
- Potential Cost Savings: Renewals and add-on services may be less expensive.
Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them
While most transfers happen smoothly, you may encounter some obstacles:
- Locked Domain: Ensure you’ve unlocked your domain in GoDaddy; otherwise, the transfer won’t proceed.
- Pending Domain Status: Domains with outstanding issues (such as expired status or ongoing disputes) are not eligible for transfer.
- Incorrect Email: Make sure the admin email address on your domain is current, as confirmations and EPP codes go there.
- Privacy Services: These must be switched off prior to transfer—forgetting to do so can delay the process.
- 60-Day Rule: Domains registered or transferred within the last 60 days cannot be moved, per ICANN regulations.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Domain Transfer
Moving your domain doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some tips to keep things smooth and hassle-free:
- Back Up Your Website and Emails
Before starting the transfer, ensure you’ve backed up all website files and emails associated with your domain, as DNS changes may temporarily affect your site and email delivery. - Double-Check Contact Information
Ensure your name, address, and especially your email are correct within your GoDaddy account. - Be Aware of Renewal Dates
Initiating a transfer close to your domain’s expiration date can sometimes cause unintended downtime. Start the process at least a few weeks in advance. - Update Nameservers After Transfer
If your website files aren’t yet on Hostinger, make sure to upload them and point your new nameservers to Hostinger after the domain transfer is complete. - Keep Both Accounts Open and Accessible
Don’t close or make drastic changes to your GoDaddy or Hostinger accounts during the transfer window.
Cost Considerations
Transferring your domain typically involves a one-time fee. Here’s what you should expect:
- Transfer Fee: Hostinger usually charges a fee (often around the cost of one-year domain renewal) to transfer your domain in. This often extends your domain registration by one year.
- No Hidden Shipping/Transfer Fees: The cost shown during the checkout is the only fee you’ll incur unless you opt for additional services.
- Discount Opportunities: Hostinger often provides promotions or bundled deals for new customers.
- Renewal Rates: Always check the renewal rate for your domain extension (.com, .net, etc.) at Hostinger, as rates can vary between providers.
Best Practices: Future-Proof Your Domain
Once your transfer is complete:
- Enable Domain Privacy Protection
If privacy is important, enable WHOIS protection through Hostinger. - Activate Auto-Renewal
Prevent accidental expiration by enabling auto-renewal for your domain. - Secure Your Account
Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Hostinger account. - Update DNS Records as Needed
Reconfigure DNS records immediately if your site or email moves to Hostinger servers. - Regularly Monitor Domain Status
Make it a habit to periodically check your domain registration status to avoid any disruptions.
Concluding Summary
Transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger isn’t just about moving your web address—it’s often about consolidating your digital presence for easier management, better features, and potential cost savings. By carefully preparing your domain, following each outlined step, and being mindful of the key practical tips, you can make your domain transfer stress-free and efficient. Once completed, you’ll benefit from Hostinger’s streamlined control panel and support, putting your digital assets securely in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there any downtime when transferring a domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?
Typically, no downtime occurs for your website or email if you keep your DNS settings unchanged during the transfer. However, if your nameservers change or website files move, brief interruptions are possible. Always back up your data before starting.
2. How long does it take to transfer a domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?
Domain transfers usually complete within 5 to 7 days. Some domains and registrars may transfer faster, within a day or two, but delays can happen if email confirmations are missed.
3. Will my existing website and emails be transferred automatically with the domain?
No. The domain transfer process only moves the registration, not your website files or email accounts. You will need to manually migrate website files and set up email forwarding or new mailboxes at Hostinger as needed.
4. Can I transfer any domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger?
Most domain extensions (like .com, .net, .org, etc.) can be transferred. However, the domain must be at least 60 days old, unlocked, and free of any holds or disputes.
5. What happens to the remaining time on my GoDaddy registration after the transfer?
Your remaining registration time stays intact, and Hostinger adds one additional year to your domain’s expiry date after the transfer is complete. There is no loss of paid time when transferring between registrars.