Moving Your Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Check your domain is unlocked, uses a supported TLD, and has been registered for at least 60 days
- Transfers take 1-15 days depending on your current provider
- The transfer itself is free but extends your registration by one year at standard rates
- You can connect your domain to Squarespace before transferring to avoid downtime
- Only domain ownership transfers, not your website content or files
Before You Start the Transfer
Your domain needs to meet a few requirements before Squarespace can accept it:
Domain eligibility checklist:
- The domain must be unlocked at your current registrar
- Your domain's extension (.com, .org, etc.) must be supported by Squarespace
- At least 60 days must have passed since you first registered the domain or last transferred it
You can check Squarespace's list of supported domain extensions in their help documentation. Most common extensions like .com, .org, and .net are supported, but some country-specific or newer extensions might not be.
How Long Domain Transfers Take
Domain transfers aren't instant. The process typically takes anywhere from 1 to 15 days, depending on how quickly your current registrar processes the request.
Here's what affects transfer timing:
- Your current registrar's processing speed
- How quickly you respond to confirmation emails
- Whether there are any issues with your domain's status
Pro tip: You can connect your domain to your Squarespace site before starting the transfer. This way, your website stays live throughout the process and visitors won't see any downtime.
Transfer Costs and Fees
Squarespace doesn't charge a transfer fee, but there's still a cost involved. When you transfer a domain, you're required to extend the registration by one year. This extension is charged at Squarespace's standard rates for your domain type.
For example, if you're transferring a .com domain, you'll pay Squarespace's annual .com registration fee. This year gets added to your existing registration time, so you don't lose any time you've already paid for.
Transfer vs Connect: Which Should You Choose?
You have two options for using your domain with Squarespace:
Transfer your domain if you want:
- Everything managed in one place
- Simplified billing and renewals
- Full integration with Squarespace's domain tools
Connect your domain if:
- Your domain doesn't meet transfer requirements
- You prefer keeping your current registrar
- You have complex DNS setups that might be disrupted
Most people find transferring simpler in the long run, especially if you're planning to stick with Squarespace.
SSL Certificates and Email After Transfer
SSL certificates: If you've already enabled SSL on your Squarespace site, a new certificate will be issued automatically after the transfer completes. There might be a brief period where the certificate updates, but this usually happens without any issues.
Email services: Your email setup needs some attention during transfers. You have two main options:
- Keep your current email provider – Update your MX records to point to your existing email service after the transfer
- Switch to Google Workspace – Squarespace offers Google Workspace integration, which can simplify email management
The key thing is planning ahead. Check with your email provider about any steps you need to take before the transfer starts.
Getting Your Transfer Started
Once you've verified your domain is eligible:
- Unlock your domain at your current registrar
- Get your authorization code (sometimes called an EPP code)
- Start the transfer process in your Squarespace account
- Keep an eye on your email for confirmation requests
Both your current registrar and Squarespace will send emails during the process. Respond to these promptly to avoid delays.
TL;DR:
- Check your domain is unlocked, uses a supported TLD, and has been registered for at least 60 days
- Transfers take 1-15 days depending on your current provider
- The transfer itself is free but extends your registration by one year at standard rates
- You can connect your domain to Squarespace before transferring to avoid downtime
- Only domain ownership transfers, not your website content or files
FAQs
What plan is the free domain offer available with?
The offer applies when transferring to a Squarespace site on an annual plan using an eligible TLD.
Can I access my email during the domain transfer process?
Email might be disrupted during the transfer. Contact your current email provider beforehand to understand what to expect and how to minimize downtime.
Can I transfer an expired domain to Squarespace?
Yes, but only within the grace period after expiration, usually 30 days. Contact your current registrar to confirm the domain is still transferable.
What happens if my transfer fails?
Transfer failures are usually due to the domain being locked, incorrect authorization codes, or timing issues. Check these factors and try again.
Jargon Buster
TLD (Top-Level Domain): The part of your domain after the final dot, like .com or .org
SSL Certificate: The security technology that creates an encrypted connection between your website and visitors' browsers
DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates your domain name into the IP address where your website lives
MX Records: Settings in your domain's DNS that tell email where to go when someone sends a message to your domain
Authorization Code: A unique password provided by your current registrar that proves you own the domain and can transfer it
Wrap-up
Moving your domain to Squarespace brings everything under one roof and simplifies your website management. The process is straightforward once you understand the requirements and timing involved.
The most important thing is preparation. Make sure your domain is eligible, plan for any email disruptions, and keep an eye on your inbox during the transfer process. With proper planning, your domain transfer should go smoothly and you'll have everything managed in one place.
Ready to level up your Squarespace skills? Join the Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth courses and expert guidance.