Move a domain to another registrar
A domain transfer changes the registrar, not the website or email service automatically
For a .uk domain, the usual transfer method is changing the registrar tag to the new provider’s IPS tag. For many global domains such as .com, unlock the domain and obtain its AuthInfo or EPP code. Keep DNS unchanged until you have planned any separate website or email move.
How do you transfer the domain?
| Domain type | Typical method | Important checks |
|---|---|---|
| .uk family, including .co.uk | Ask the gaining registrar for its IPS tag, then change the tag through the current registrar | The tag must be exact. Changing it normally does not add another registration year |
| Many generic domains, including .com and .net | Confirm contact details, remove the transfer lock and obtain the AuthInfo or EPP code, then order the transfer with the gaining registrar | Initial-registration, previous-transfer or registrant-change locks may prevent a transfer for a period |
| Other country-code domains | Follow the registry-specific process supplied by both registrars | Eligibility, paperwork, expiry and transfer rules can differ substantially |
Transfer-away checklist
Open the destination account and obtain its exact instructions, IPS tag or transfer order.
Make sure the authorised holder and contact details are accurate before requesting credentials.
Save current nameservers and DNS records, including website, mail and verification records.
Change the .uk tag or use the generic-domain unlock and AuthInfo process.
Keep the website and email working
A registrar holds the domain registration. DNS directs the domain to website and email services. Hosting stores the website, while a mailbox provider stores and delivers email. These are connected services but they are not the same thing.
Keep nameservers unchanged
If the website and email will remain where they are, retain the current nameservers and DNS records at the new registrar.
Move services separately
If hosting or email will also move, prepare the destination first and schedule DNS changes after the data and mailboxes are ready.
Do not cancel too early
Keep old paid services active until the transfer and any migration have been tested from outside your account.
Domain transfer questions
Where do I request the transfer from UKC?
Sign in to the UKC account area, open Domains and manage the relevant name. If the required tag, lock or AuthInfo option is not available, contact support from the account and identify the domain without including passwords.
How long does a domain transfer take?
A .uk registrar-tag change and a generic-domain transfer use different processes. Completion time depends on the registry, registrar responses, locks and whether the supplied details are correct.
Will transferring the domain move my email?
No. Email remains where its DNS records point. Copying mailbox contents and changing mail records is a separate migration.
Can an expired domain be transferred?
Rules vary. Resolve expiry or recovery status before relying on a transfer, and ask both registrars what is permitted for that extension.
Can a registrar refuse a transfer?
Transfers can be blocked for defined reasons such as an applicable lock, a dispute, fraud concerns or registry rules. The registrar should explain the relevant reason and next step.
Need the tag, unlock or transfer code?
Start in the domain account, then ask support if the control is unavailable
Keep the request secure and preserve the active DNS records while the registrar changes.