Can I transfer my domain name? How do I transfer a domain name?

A domain name transfer is a common operation when a domain name is traded or ownership is changed. Both individuals and businesses may encounter situations where they need to transfer a domain name to another person or organization. So, can a domain name be transferred or not? How does it work? In this article, we will introduce the domain name transfer process and considerations, to help you successfully complete the domain name transfer.

First, the domain name can be transferred?

The answer is yes. Domain name as a virtual asset, its ownership is transferable. Whether it is a personal domain name, or a domain name registered by a company, as long as it meets the regulations of the registrar, you can handle the transfer procedures.

Common domain name transfer scenarios

1. Domain name purchase and sale: when buying or selling a domain name, a transfer is required.

2. Corporate change: When a company merges or adjusts its business, it may need to transfer the domain name to the name of the new subject.

3. Personal transfer: for example, giving the domain name to a friend or inheriting it as an asset.

4. Registrar transfer: if you change the domain name registrar, you also need to transfer to the new platform.

The specific process of domain name transfer

The steps of domain name transfer vary slightly depending on the registrar and domain name suffix (e.g. .com, .cn), but the basic process is as follows:

1.Preparation of the materials required for the transfer

(1) Individual domain name transfer

-Domain name management account and password (need to be able to log in the domain name control panel)

-Proof of identity (scanned copy of ID card front and back)

-Domain name transfer code (Auth Code) (required by some registrars)

(2)Enterprise domain name transfer

-Scanned copy of business license (stamped with official seal)

-Legal person ID card front and back

-Domain name transfer application form (required by some registrars)

2.Submit the transfer application

-Domestic domain name (e.g. .cn/.com.cn/.net.cn):

-Log in to the background of the domain name registrar (e.g. Aliyun, Tencent Cloud).

-Enter “Domain Name Management” → Select “Domain Name Transfer”.

-Fill in the information of the new holder, upload supporting materials and submit for review.

-International domain name (e.g. .com/.net/.org):

-Get the domain name transfer code (apply in the registrar's backend).

-New holder submits the transfer request through the new registrar.

-The original registrar will send a confirmation email, need to agree to the transfer.

3. Review and complete the transfer

-Domestic domain name: Usually the audit will be completed within 1-3 working days, and you will be notified by email after the transfer is successful.

-International domain name: the transfer process may take 5-7 days, you need to pay attention to check the registrar's confirmation email.

Notes for domain name transfer

1. Domain name status check

-Ensure that the domain name is not in a locked state (e.g. “clientHold”), otherwise it cannot be transferred.

-If the domain name has just been renewed or registered, some registrars may restrict the transfer within 60 days.

2. Update of filing information (only for domestic websites)

-If the domain name has been filed, you need to update the main information in the filing system of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) after the transfer, otherwise the website may be closed.

3. Beware of fraud

-Trading is recommended to use the regular domain name trading platform (such as Aliyun domain name trading, Sedo, etc.), to avoid being cheated in private transactions.

-Confirm the identity of the other party to prevent malicious transfer of domain names after theft.

4. Costs

-Some registrars charge domain name transfer fees (usually ranging from $50-200).

-International domain name transfer may involve the cost of renewal for 1 year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Will domain name transfer affect website access?

-No, the domain name resolution record usually will not be changed due to the transfer. However, if you change the DNS server, you may need to reset the resolution.

Q2：Can I transfer my personal domain name to a company?

-Yes, but you need to provide company business license and legal identity proof, some registrars may require additional documents.

Q3：Can I get my domain name back after the transfer?

-No, after the transfer is completed, the original holder loses the ownership, unless through legal channels or negotiation with the new holder.

Q4：Do I need both parties to be present for the domain transfer?

-No, the whole process is done online, you only need to provide the electronic version of the documents.

V. Summary

Domain name transfer is a key step in domain name transaction or ownership change, the operation is not complicated, but you need to pay attention to the preparation of materials, registrar regulations, filing updates and other issues. If it is a high-priced domain name transaction, it is recommended to go through the formal trading platform or lawyer witness to ensure the security of the transaction.

If you are considering domain name transfer, it is recommended to contact the registrar's customer service first to understand the latest policies to avoid delays due to process changes. Hope this article can help you successfully complete the domain name transfer!