Thinking about moving your domain away from HostGator but not sure where to start? You’re not alone—many website owners eventually decide to transfer their domain for better service, pricing, or features.
Transferring a domain can seem daunting, but it’s an important step if you want more control over your online presence. This article breaks down the transfer process into simple steps, offers practical tips, and highlights what to watch out for, helping you make the switch with confidence.
How to Transfer a Domain from HostGator: A Step-by-Step Guide
Transferring your domain away from HostGator to another registrar is a straightforward process, even if it feels a bit intimidating at first. Whether you’re moving to Namecheap, GoDaddy, Hostinger, or any other registrar, the steps are generally the same. This guide will walk you through each stage, explain what to expect, and offer practical tips to ensure your domain transfer goes smoothly.
What Does It Mean to Transfer a Domain?
Transferring a domain means moving your domain registration from your current registrar (HostGator) to a new one. This is different from transferring your website’s files or hosting; your domain transfer specifically updates which company manages your domain name registration records and renewals.
Why Transfer Your Domain From HostGator?
There are many reasons you might want to move your domain:
- Better pricing or renewal rates with another company
- Consolidation of domains under one provider
- Enhanced customer support or features at another registrar
- Preparing to change your hosting provider
Step-By-Step Domain Transfer Process from HostGator
Let’s break down the process into manageable steps so you’ll know exactly what to do and what to expect.
1. Prepare Your Domain for Transfer
Before you begin, make sure:
- Your domain is at least 60 days old (ICANN requires this).
- Your domain is unlocked. Domains are usually locked to prevent unauthorized transfers.
- Your contact information is up to date in the domain’s WHOIS records.
2. Unlock Your Domain in HostGator
- Log in to your HostGator Domain Manager.
- Locate your domain in the list.
- Check its status. If it says “Locked,” turn off domain lock.
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Save settings.
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Tip: Domain locking is a security feature to prevent unauthorized transfers, so you’ll need to disable it before starting a transfer.*
3. Get the Authorization (EPP) Code
The EPP code is a unique authorization key needed to move your domain.
- In HostGator Domain Manager, find your domain’s management settings.
- Request or view the EPP (Authorization) code.
- Copy this code and keep it safe—it’s required by your new registrar.
4. Check Contact Email and WHOIS Details
The transfer confirmation and important notifications will be sent to your domain’s registrant email address. Make sure:
- The email addresses listed are active and accessible.
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You have access to your domain registrant’s inbox.
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Tip: If you recently changed WHOIS details, domain transfers may be restricted for another 60 days.*
5. Initiate the Transfer at Your New Registrar
Now, head to the website of the new registrar (like GoDaddy, Namecheap, Hostinger, etc.) and start the domain transfer process.
- Find the “Transfer Domain” option.
- Enter your domain name.
- Provide the EPP/Authorization code when prompted.
- Pay the transfer fee (usually includes one-year renewal).
- Follow any additional instructions.
6. Approve the Transfer
You will receive emails (often to your domain’s registrant email) asking you to confirm or approve the transfer. Complete any confirmation steps:
- Click verification links.
- Confirm your identity if required.
7. Wait for Completion
Transfers can take anywhere from a few hours to 7 days to complete. During this time:
- Your domain should remain active and continue to point to your website.
- You will be notified when transfer finishes.
Important Tips and Best Practices
- Back Up Your Website: While transferring a domain doesn’t move website files, it’s wise to have a backup just in case.
- Keep Your Domain Renewed: Expired domains can’t be transferred. Renew if you’re close to expiry.
- Turn Off Privacy Protection Temporarily: Some registrars require this to verify your contact details.
- Avoid Making Changes During Transfer: Don’t update WHOIS contact info during the process to prevent delays.
- Keep an Eye on Your Email: Timely response to confirmation emails helps avoid transfer failure.
Cost Considerations
- Transfer Fee: Most registrars charge a small fee for a transfer (often $8–$15), which usually includes a one-year renewal of your domain registration.
- No Double Payment: You’re not paying twice—your domain’s expiry date will simply extend by one year.
- Free Services: Some registrars offer free domain transfers as a promotion, so check for deals.
Benefits of Transferring Your Domain
- Centralized Management: Keep all your domains under one account for easier renewal and management.
- Potential Savings: New registrars might offer lower renewal rates.
- Improved Support: Some registrars have better customer service, especially for transfers and renewals.
- Bundled Services: You may gain access to enhanced DNS management, website hosting, or email solutions.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
- Incorrect EPP Code: If the code is wrong, the transfer will fail. Double-check before submitting.
- Locked Domain: Transfers won’t proceed unless domain is unlocked. Always verify status.
- Email Issues: If you can’t access the admin email, update it before starting.
- Registrar Hold: Domains under 60 days old or recently transferred-in cannot be moved.
- Delays: Response times and holidays can delay completion, so plan ahead if timing is critical.
Best Practices for a Smooth Transfer
- Start the process at least 2–4 weeks before your domain’s expiration date.
- Temporarily disable domain privacy so your email address can receive transfer approval messages.
- Read the new registrar’s transfer instructions—they may request specific actions based on your domain’s TLD (.com, .net, etc.).
- Monitor your emails (including spam/junk folders) for confirmation requests.
- Don’t cancel your HostGator account until the transfer is complete and confirmed with your new registrar.
What Happens After Transfer?
When the transfer is complete:
- Your new registrar will notify you via email.
- Your domain’s nameservers and DNS settings do not change by default. If you are moving your website or email hosting, update your DNS records as needed.
- Manage renewals, DNS, and other settings from your new registrar’s dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an EPP or Authorization code, and why is it needed?
An EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) code, also called an authorization or transfer key, is a unique string given by your current registrar (HostGator) to secure your domain transfer. It ensures only the domain owner can initiate a transfer.
Will my website or email experience downtime during the transfer?
Usually, domain transfers do not cause downtime. As long as your nameserver/DNS records remain unchanged, your website and email will continue to function as normal during the process.
How long does it take to transfer a domain out of HostGator?
On average, domain transfers take between a few hours to 7 days. The speed depends on timely confirmations and the policies of the involved registrars.
Can I transfer an expired domain from HostGator?
No, domains must be active to initiate a transfer. If your domain has expired, renew it on HostGator first, then start the transfer process.
Does transferring a domain move my website too?
No, transferring a domain only changes where your domain is registered. If you also want to move your website content and email, you’ll need to migrate those separately.
Summary
Transferring your domain from HostGator is a manageable, step-by-step process involving unlocking your domain, obtaining your EPP code, starting the transfer at your new registrar, confirming your identity, and waiting for completion. By following best practices and staying attentive throughout, you can ensure your domain lands safely at its new home, with minimal hassle and no disruption to your website or email services.
If you’ve been thinking about making the move, now you know exactly what to expect. Happy transferring!