How to Transfer Your Domain to Namecheap (Step-by-Step)

Learn how to transfer your domain to Namecheap quickly and easily. This step-by-step guide will help you switch registrars without losing your domain.
How to Transfer Your Domain to Namecheap (Step-by-Step)

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Why Transfer Your Domain to Namecheap?

If you’re frustrated with your current domain registrar — whether it’s because of high renewal costs, poor support, or clunky interfaces — moving to Namecheap can be a smart decision. Known for affordable pricing, lifetime free WHOIS privacy, and a clean dashboard, Namecheap makes domain management much easier.

Thousands of people transfer their domains every month to take advantage of:

  • Better renewal pricing with no hidden fees
  • Free WHOIS privacy to protect your personal data
  • Simple domain management and fast DNS setup
  • Reliable support if anything goes wrong

Whether you’re coming from GoDaddy, Google Domains, Bluehost, or another registrar, the transfer process is fairly straightforward — and takes just a few days to complete.

→ Transfer your domain to Namecheap now

What to Know Before You Begin

Before starting the domain transfer, make sure the domain is eligible and unlocked. Here’s a short checklist to help you prep for a smooth migration:

  • Your domain is at least 60 days old — ICANN rules prevent newly registered domains from being transferred until they’re 60+ days old.
  • Your domain is unlocked — Go to your current registrar and disable the domain lock.
  • You have access to the admin email — This is where transfer confirmation will be sent.
  • You’ve retrieved your EPP/Auth Code — This is like a password required to authorise the move.
  • WHOIS privacy is disabled (temporarily) — Some registrars block transfer requests if WHOIS is enabled. You can turn it back on at Namecheap after the transfer is done.

Once those boxes are checked, you’re ready to start the transfer process.

→ Begin your domain transfer here

Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Your Domain to Namecheap

Below is the exact process for moving your domain to Namecheap. This works whether you’re switching from GoDaddy, Google Domains, Bluehost, or almost any other registrar.

Step 1: Unlock Your Domain

Log in to your current registrar and find the domain you want to move. Look for a “Lock” toggle or security setting, and disable it. This allows the domain to be transferred.

Step 2: Get Your EPP Code

This is a transfer authorization code — also called an EPP or Auth code. Most registrars let you copy this from your dashboard, or send it to your admin email.

Step 3: Start Transfer at Namecheap

Go to Namecheap’s transfer page and enter the domain you want to move. You’ll be prompted to paste your EPP code and verify ownership.

Step 4: Confirm Transfer via Email

You’ll receive a confirmation email from your current registrar and another from Namecheap. Approve the request, and the transfer begins.

Step 5: Wait for Completion

Transfers usually take 2–6 days depending on the old registrar. You don’t need to do anything unless you receive an email asking for action.

→ Start your domain transfer now

How Long Does a Domain Transfer Take?

Domain transfers to Namecheap typically take 2 to 6 days to complete. This varies depending on your current registrar and how quickly you approve the transfer emails.

Here’s what impacts transfer timing:

  • Immediate email approval: Once you approve the transfer link in the confirmation email, the clock starts.
  • Registrar response times: Some registrars (like GoDaddy) may delay the release, unless you log in and approve manually.
  • Weekends and holidays: Processing delays can happen if your request hits on a weekend.

Want to speed things up?

After initiating the transfer, log into your old registrar and look for an “approve transfer” button. Doing this manually instead of waiting the default 5–7 days will usually speed things up by 24–48 hours.

Will My Website or Email Go Down During Transfer?

Good news — domain transfers do not affect your live website or email, as long as you don’t change the nameservers or DNS settings during the process.

If your domain is currently pointed to a hosting provider (e.g., Bluehost, SiteGround, Webflow), the transfer doesn’t break that connection. Just don’t change any DNS settings while the transfer is in progress.

Once the transfer is complete, you can manage DNS from Namecheap’s dashboard or continue to use your existing hosting provider’s DNS panel.

Is Transferring a Domain to Namecheap Free?

No, but it’s extremely affordable — and actually saves you money long term. Transferring a domain to Namecheap typically costs:

  • $8.98–$12.98 for a .com (includes 1-year renewal)
  • Free WHOIS privacy included forever

The price you pay to transfer includes a 12-month extension of your domain. So you’re not just switching — you’re renewing for a year, too.

→ Transfer and renew your domain with Namecheap

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Domain transfers involve multiple systems — so occasionally, things can get stuck. Here’s how to fix the most common issues:

  • Transfer rejected? Check if the domain is locked or recently registered (under 60 days).
  • Didn’t get the confirmation email? Make sure WHOIS privacy is disabled and that your admin email is valid.
  • Old registrar holding your domain? Reach out to their support or check your account for a manual approval option.

If all else fails, Namecheap’s support is available 24/7 via live chat and will help you push the transfer through.

Should I Transfer Domains in Bulk?

If you manage multiple domains across registrars, consolidating them at Namecheap can simplify your workflow. They support bulk transfers — just enter multiple domain names and EPP codes during checkout. Each transfer adds one year of registration and activates WHOIS privacy.

→ Start a bulk domain transfer

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I transfer my domain to Namecheap?

Unlock your domain at your current registrar, get the EPP/Auth code, and go to Namecheap’s transfer page. Enter the domain and code, then confirm via email. The domain will move over in 2–6 days.

How long does a domain transfer take?

Most domain transfers to Namecheap complete within 3–5 business days. Some complete faster if you manually approve it from your old registrar. Delays are usually caused by domain locks, missing email approvals, or registrar slowdowns.

Is domain transfer free?

No — but the fee includes a full one-year renewal. You typically pay around $9–$13 for a .com transfer to Namecheap. That’s cheaper than many standard renewals elsewhere.

Will my website go offline during the transfer?

No. As long as you don’t change your DNS or nameservers, your website and email will continue working throughout the transfer process.

Can I transfer my domain to Namecheap from GoDaddy?

Yes — thousands of users do this every month. You’ll need to unlock the domain in GoDaddy, copy the EPP/Auth code, and start the transfer on Namecheap. GoDaddy may email you a confirmation link, or you can manually approve it in your account.

Do I lose time on my domain when I transfer it?

No. The time left on your domain is preserved, and Namecheap adds an extra year on top. For example, if you have 6 months left and transfer to Namecheap, you’ll end up with 1 year and 6 months of registration.

What if I don’t approve the transfer?

If you don’t confirm the transfer via email within a few days, the request will expire. You can restart it anytime from the Namecheap dashboard, but it won’t complete without approval from the admin contact.

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of overpriced renewals, outdated dashboards, or confusing registrar policies, it’s probably time to move your domain to Namecheap.

The process is simple, fast, and adds a year to your domain. You also get:

  • Free WHOIS privacy — for life
  • Transparent pricing with no upsells
  • Modern DNS tools and clean interface
  • Responsive live chat support

Whether you’re managing one domain or a portfolio of ten, Namecheap makes domain transfers straightforward and safe — with no downtime or hidden fees.

→ Transfer your domain to Namecheap today

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