Transfer Your Name.com Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Prepare your domain by unlocking it and getting the authorization code from Name.com
- You'll need to delete Name.com's nameservers (this causes temporary downtime)
- Start the transfer in your Squarespace Domains panel with the auth code
- The transfer typically takes 5-7 days but can take up to 15 days
- You'll pay for one additional year of registration as part of the transfer
- Monitor progress in Squarespace and contact Name.com support if issues arise
Moving your domain from Name.com to Squarespace puts your domain management and website hosting in one place. Here's how to do it without running into common problems.
Prepare Your Domain for Transfer
Log into your Name.com account and find the domain you want to move. You'll need to unlock it first – most domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorised transfers.
Next, you'll need to delete Name.com's nameservers. This will cause temporary downtime for your site, so plan accordingly. Your website will be offline until the transfer completes and Squarespace's servers take over.
Get Your Contact Details Right
Check that all your domain contact information is current. Out-of-date contact details are one of the main reasons transfers fail or get delayed.
If your domain was registered or transferred within the last 60 days, Name.com might have a transfer lock in place. You can usually opt out of this lock to proceed with your transfer.
Get Your Authorization Code
You'll find the Transfer Auth Code (sometimes called an EPP code) in your Name.com account details. This is basically a password that proves you own the domain and have permission to move it.
Copy this code exactly as it appears – you'll need it for the next step.
Start the Transfer in Squarespace
Head to the Domains panel in your Squarespace account and select the option to transfer an existing domain. Enter your domain name and paste in that authorization code.
Squarespace will check that everything looks good before moving to the payment stage.
Handle the Payment
You'll need to pay for one additional year of registration as part of the transfer. This is standard practice across all domain registrars – you're not losing money, just extending your registration period.
Review the payment details and confirm the transfer. Make sure you read through Squarespace's terms before accepting.
Monitor the Transfer Progress
Once you've initiated the transfer, keep an eye on the status in your Squarespace Domains panel. You'll see updates as the transfer progresses.
Common error messages include domain locking issues or invalid authorization codes. If you see these, double-check your Name.com settings and make sure you copied the auth code correctly.
If you're stuck, Name.com's support team can help troubleshoot transfer-specific issues from their end.
FAQs
How long does it take to transfer a domain to Squarespace?
Most transfers complete within 5-7 days, but the process can take up to 15 days depending on various factors.
Can I cancel a domain transfer after starting it?
Yes, if the transfer is still pending, you can cancel it through your Squarespace settings.
Should I contact Name.com after providing the authorization code?
Name.com usually processes transfers automatically, but contacting them can sometimes speed things up if there are delays.
Jargon Buster
Authorization Code: A secure code from Name.com that proves you own the domain and can authorise its transfer.
DNS Settings: Configuration that tells the internet where to find your website when someone types in your domain name.
SSL: Security technology that encrypts data between your website and visitors' browsers.
Wrap-up
Moving your domain to Squarespace consolidates your domain and website management in one place. The process is straightforward if you follow these steps, though the temporary downtime means you should plan the transfer for a quiet period.
The main benefits are simpler billing and the ability to manage everything from your Squarespace dashboard. Just remember to monitor the transfer progress and don't hesitate to contact support if you run into issues.
Ready to streamline your website management? Join Pixelhaze Academy for more Squarespace tutorials and expert guidance.