Knowledgebase

Domain Transfer Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Purpose:
This guide will walk you through the process of transferring your domain name to R the Company.
We’ll cover the necessary steps for different domain extensions like .uk, .com, .eu, .co.uk, .nl, .it, and .de, highlighting any special rules or steps for each type.

Simple Checklist Before You Start:

1. Gather Account Information:
   Have your login details for your current domain provider ready.
2. Contact Your Current Provider:
   You’ll need to ask them for specific codes or settings (details below).
3. Reach Out to Us:
   R the Company is here to help you every step of the way. If you feel unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact us.

General Overview:

1. Understand the Domain Rules:
   Each domain extension (.com, .uk, .de, etc.) has its own rules and regulations. Some may require special codes or actions before they can be transferred.

2. EPP Codes and Domain Locking:

   • EPP Codes:
     Many domains require an EPP code (also called an Auth code) to initiate a transfer. This code is like a key that unlocks the ability to move your domain.
   • Domain Locking:
     Some domains can be locked by the current provider. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized transfers. Make sure your domain is unlocked before trying to move it.

3. DNS Settings:

   • Ask your current provider to set the DNS (Domain Name System) to the minimum cache time allowed, which is usually 1 hour. This reduces downtime during the transfer.
   • Get the current DNS settings from your provider. You’ll need this information to set up your domain on R the Company’s servers.

Specific Domain Extensions:

1. .uk and .co.uk Domains:

• Tag System:
  • R the Company will give you a ‘tag’ specific to us.
  • Step 1: Contact your current provider and ask them to change your domain’s tag to the one provided by R the Company.
  • Step 2: If relevant, ask them to unlock the domain.
  • Step 3: Once the tag is changed, R the Company can initiate the transfer.
• DNS Settings:
  Make sure the DNS is set to the minimum cache time (usually 1 hour) and obtain the current DNS settings from your provider.

2. .com Domains:

• EPP Code and Domain Unlocking:
  • Step 1: Ask your current provider for the EPP code and ensure the domain is unlocked.
  • Step 2: Provide the EPP code to R the Company to start the transfer.
  • Step 3: The current provider will receive an email from the registrar to confirm the transfer. If they approve, the transfer happens quickly. If they ignore it, the process will complete in about 5 days automatically.
• DNS Settings:
  Ensure DNS is set to the minimum cache time (usually 1 hour) and get the DNS settings.

3. .eu, .nl, .it, and .de Domains (and most others):

• Process:
  • Step 1: Similar to .com, you will need the EPP code from your current provider.
  • Step 2: Check that the domain is unlocked.
  • Step 3: Provide the EPP code to R the Company to initiate the transfer.
• Country-Specific Rules:
  • Some domains like .de (Germany) and .it (Italy) may have additional local rules. The R the Company will guide you through any specific requirements.
• DNS Settings:
  As with the others, ask your provider to set DNS to the minimum cache time (usually 1 hour) and provide the DNS settings.

Handling Email During Transfer:

• Potential Email Downtime:
  When DNS is set to the minimum cache time (usually 1 hour), there may be up to a 1-hour delay where emails might still be directed to your old provider.
• Minimizing Loss:
  • You can often still access your emails through your old provider's webmail during this time.
  • Even though it's unlikely, some emails might be delayed or, in rare cases, lost during the transfer. Unfortunately, this is something outside of anyone's control, but it’s a rare occurrence.

Final Tips:

• Preparation is Key:
  Ensure all codes, tags, and DNS settings are ready before starting the transfer.
• Direct Support from R the Company:
  We are here to support you every step of the way. If anything is unclear or if special rules apply to your domain extension, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help.
• Stay Calm:
  The process might seem complicated, but with R the Company guiding you, you’re in good hands.

FAQ:

Q: Will I lose my website during the transfer?
A: No, your website will remain online during the transfer as long as the DNS settings are properly managed.

Q: What happens if my emails don’t go through during the transfer?
A: There may be a short delay, but most emails will be delivered after the transfer is complete. While rare, if an email is lost, unfortunately, it can't be recovered, but this is uncommon.

Q: What if I don’t understand the technical terms?
A: No problem! R the Company is here to help explain anything you’re unsure about.

By following this guide, you’ll have a smooth transition to R the Company.
Just take it one step at a time, and remember, we’re here to help!