Transferring a domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap can be a smart decision if you're looking for better pricing, improved services, or a more intuitive management experience.

The process is straightforward, but certain steps must be followed carefully to avoid downtime or delays. This guide covers everything you need to know, from preparation to troubleshooting, ensuring a smooth domain transfer.

Quick Pre-Transfer Checklist

Before you begin, make sure:

• ✅ The domain is at least 60 days old and not recently transferred.
• ✅ The domain is unlocked in your GoDaddy account.
• ✅ You have obtained the Authorization Code (EPP Code).
• ✅ WHOIS privacy protection is disabled.
• ✅ DNS settings and records have been backed up.
• ✅ Nameservers have been preconfigured to avoid downtime.
• ✅ The admin email address associated with the domain is accessible.

Why Transfer A Domain From GoDaddy To Namecheap?

Understanding the reasons behind transferring your domain can help you decide if this move is right for you:

• Cost-Effective Pricing: Namecheap offers lower renewal fees (around $35/year) compared to GoDaddy ($70+/year).
• Free WHOIS Protection: Namecheap provides free WHOIS privacy protection, which GoDaddy charges extra for.
• User-Friendly Interface: Namecheap's dashboard is intuitive, making domain management simpler.
• Transparent Policies: Namecheap is known for clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
• DNS Reliability: Namecheap's DNS tools offer improved control and stability for your website.

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Many businesses start with GoDaddy due to its market dominance but often realize they are paying for add-ons (like email or website builders) they don’t use. Switching to Namecheap not only reduces costs but also improves the overall domain management experience.

Essential Things To Know Before You Begin

Before transferring your domain, keep the following in mind:

ICANN Rules And Domain Eligibility

• Your domain must be at least 60 days old and not transferred within the last 60 days.
• Expired domains must be renewed before transfer.

Domain Lock Status

Unlock your domain in GoDaddy settings to allow the transfer.

WHOIS Privacy Protection

Disable privacy protection, as transfers are blocked when WHOIS is enabled.

DNS And Downtime

Preconfigure Namecheap nameservers before transferring to prevent downtime:

Step-by-Step Guide To Transfer A Domain From GoDaddy To Namecheap

Follow these detailed steps to successfully transfer your domain:

1. Verify Domain Eligibility

Confirm your domain meets the following requirements:

2. Log In To Your GoDaddy Account

• Visit GoDaddy.comand log in to your account.
• Navigate to the Domain Manager where your domain list is displayed.
• Select the domain you wish to transfer.

3. Unlock The Domain

• In the Domain Manager, click on the domain name to access its settings.
• Find the Domain Lock option and toggle it off.
• Save your changes.

Note: Avoid updating registrant details to prevent a 60-day transfer lock.

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4. Obtain The Authorization Code (EPP Code)

• In GoDaddy, scroll to the Transfer Domain section.
• Click Transfer to Another Registrar.
• Copy the Authorization Code displayed on-screen or check your admin email.

How to Transfer Domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap

5. Preconfigure Namecheap Nameservers (Recommended To Avoid Downtime)

• Log in to your Namecheap account.
• Go to Domains > FreeDNS.
• Add your domain to generate Namecheap nameservers (e.g., freedns1.registrar-servers.com).
• Copy the nameserver details.

In GoDaddy:

• Access the domain’s DNS settings.
• Add the two Namecheap nameservers as NS records.

This ensures your website remains live during the transfer process.

6. Disable WHOIS Privacy Protection

• In GoDaddy, go to the domain settings.
• Under Domain Privacy, click Change and set it to Off.

Caution: Once WHOIS privacy is disabled, it cannot be re-enabled unless renewed.

7. Initiate The Transfer On Namecheap

• Log in to your Namecheap account.
• Navigate to Domains > Transfer.
• Enter the domain name and click Transfer.
• Enter the Authorization Code from GoDaddy.
• Complete the checkout process.

8. Approve The Transfer In GoDaddy (Optional)

To expedite the transfer:

• Log in to your GoDaddy account.
• Go to Domain Manager > Transfers > Transfers Out.
• Approve the pending transfer request.

9. Wait For Transfer Completion

• Transfers typically take 5-7 days.
• You will receive confirmation emails from Namecheap once the transfer is complete.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During Domain Transfer

If you face issues, here are some solutions:

• Domain is Locked: Ensure the domain is unlocked in GoDaddy.
• 60-Day Transfer Lock: Avoid updating registrant details or contact GoDaddy’s Review 60 department.
• Invalid Authorization Code: Recheck the code or request a new one.
• Admin Email Not Accessible: Update the admin email and resend verification.

Avoiding Payment Issues During Promotions

Follow these tips to avoid delays during Namecheap promotions:

• Top-Up Funds: Add funds to your Namecheap account in advance.
• Saved Credit Card: Save a valid credit card for faster checkout.
• ICANN Fee: Remember to include the $0.18 fee for .comand .netdomains.

Benefits Of Choosing Namecheap Over GoDaddy

• Lower Costs: Affordable transfer and renewal fees.
• Free WHOIS Privacy: Protect your data at no extra cost.
• Transparent Policies: No hidden fees or unexpected price hikes.
• User-Friendly Management: Easy-to-use dashboard and DNS tools.

FAQs About Transferring A Domain From GoDaddy To Namecheap

How Long Does It Take To Transfer A Domain?

It usually takes 5-7 daysbut can be expedited by approving the transfer in GoDaddy.

Will My Website Experience Downtime?

If you use custom DNS, there will be no downtime. If using GoDaddy's default DNS, downtime may occur until new settings are configured.

What Happens If I Miss The Authorization Email?

You can resend it from Namecheap’s transfer dashboard.

Can I Transfer A Recently Updated Domain?

Avoid changing registrant details to prevent a 60-day lock.

Final Words

Switching your domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap is a smart move for cost savings, free WHOIS privacy, and better DNS control. By following this step-by-step guide carefully, you can avoid downtime and ensure a smooth transfer. Take control of your domain management today and enjoy the benefits Namecheap offers!

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