Domain Transfer: Common Mistakes and Practical Checklist

Why Transfer a Domain?

Domain transfers are typically done for one of three reasons:

• Current registrar is expensive or support is weak
• Want to consolidate hosting and domain with same provider
• Need to switch to EU-based provider for GDPR

40% of customers transferring to EuroVDC do so for the third reason, 35% for the first.

Common Mistake #1: Not Checking Transfer Lock

Domains are protected by default with "transfer lock". Transfer won't start without unlocking it.

Solution:

1. Log into your current registrar panel
2. Find "Transfer Lock" setting in domain management
3. Set to "Unlocked" or "Off"

Skip this step and your transfer request will be rejected on day one.

Common Mistake #2: Forgetting to Get EPP/Auth Code

The EPP code (or authorization code) is like the "password" for domain transfer. It's unique for each domain.

How to Get It?

Most registrar panels have a "Get EPP Code" or "Authorization Code" button. The code is typically:

• 8-16 characters long
• Contains uppercase, lowercase, and numbers
• Be careful not to add spaces when copying

You'll be asked for this code when you start the domain transfer.

Common Mistake #3: Not Checking WHOIS Email

Transfer approval is sent to the email address in the domain WHOIS record. This address:

• May be one you no longer use
• May end up in spam folder
• May be registrar's proxy email due to WHOIS protection

Precaution:

One day before starting transfer:

1. Run a WHOIS query
2. Check your email address
3. Update if needed and wait 24 hours

Common Mistake #4: Not Checking Domain Expiration

If a domain is within 15 days of expiration, most registrars can block the transfer. Also, domains registered or transferred in the last 60 days cannot be transferred again (ICANN rule).

Safe Transfer Window:

• 30+ days until expiration
• 60+ days since last transfer
• 60+ days since initial registration

Common Mistake #5: Not Backing Up DNS Settings

DNS records are usually preserved during transfer, but not always. If email MX records or subdomain settings are lost, site and email will break.

Pre-Transfer DNS Backup:

1. Screenshot current DNS records
2. Note A, MX, CNAME, TXT records
3. Verify in new panel after transfer

EuroVDC domain management panel auto-detects DNS records and alerts you.

Common Mistake #6: Not Planning Email Continuity

Transfer duration is typically 5-7 days. During this time:

• Emails won't be lost (if MX records are correct)
• But new DNS propagation can take 24-48 hours

For Email Security:

Create corporate email accounts on the new provider before transfer. If active on both sides, transition is seamless.

Transfer Checklist

✓ Unlocked transfer lock
✓ Got EPP/Auth code
✓ WHOIS email is accessible
✓ Domain has 30+ days until expiration
✓ Backed up DNS settings
✓ Created email accounts on new provider
✓ Noted SSL certificate renewal date

First 48 Hours After Transfer

1. Check DNS records in new panel
2. Test that site and email work
3. Verify SSL certificate validity
4. Re-enable WHOIS protection

EuroVDC Transfer Advantages

When transferring domains to EuroVDC:

• DNS records are auto-detected
• Transfer process is monitored with 24/7 support
• GDPR compliance comes by default (EU registration)
• Hosting, SSL and email managed from same panel

Should You Transfer or Not?

Domain transfer is a simple process with the right checklist. Follow this guide to avoid common mistakes and your transfer will complete smoothly in 5-7 days.