Transferring Your Domain from Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Unlock your Squarespace domain first to start the transfer process
- Get a transfer authentication code from Squarespace and give it to your new provider
- Domain transfers take up to 15 business days to complete
- Moving your domain doesn't move your website or hosting services
- Country code domains like .de or .co.uk have different transfer rules
Transferring your domain from Squarespace to another provider is straightforward once you know the steps. The process involves unlocking your domain, getting an authentication code, and providing that code to your new registrar.
Getting Started with the Transfer
Unlock Your Domain
Head to your Squarespace domains dashboard and select the domain you want to transfer. Look for the Domain Lock toggle and switch it off. Some domains don't show this option, which means you can skip straight to requesting the transfer code.
Request Your Transfer Code
Click 'Request transfer code' in your dashboard. You'll need to confirm your identity by entering your password or using two-factor authentication if you have it set up.
Squarespace will email the authentication code to your domain's registered contact email within 24 hours. If you need to update this email address, do it in the Registration Information section before requesting the code.
Give the Code to Your New Provider
Once you receive the authentication code, provide it to your new domain registrar. They can't start the transfer without it. Each provider handles this differently, so check their documentation or support if you're not sure where to enter the code.
Common Transfer Issues
If the authentication code doesn't arrive, check your spam folder and make sure the contact email in Registration Information is correct.
When your new provider says the code is invalid or expired, double-check you're using the most recent code from your email. Squarespace sometimes sends multiple codes if you request them again.
Some providers might ask you to disable Whois privacy or make other changes. Confirm these requests are legitimate by contacting the provider directly. If they're making the transfer unnecessarily complicated, consider switching to a different registrar.
Always verify transfer-related emails are genuinely from your current or future domain registrar. Scammers often target people during domain transfers.
FAQs
Can I cancel a domain transfer after starting it?
You can usually cancel within a short window after requesting the authentication code. Once your new provider initiates the transfer, cancellation becomes much harder.
What happens to my domain email during the transfer?
You'll need to set up MX records with your new provider to keep email working. If you use Google Workspace or similar services, manage these separately from the domain transfer.
Why can't I change DNS settings during the transfer?
DNS settings are locked during active transfers to prevent conflicts and data corruption. You'll need to wait until the transfer completes.
Jargon Buster
Domain Lock – A security feature that prevents unauthorized domain transfers
Authentication Code – A one-time code required to authorize domain transfers (also called EPP code or transfer key)
DNS Records – Settings that tell the internet where to find your website and email
ccTLD – Country code domains like .uk or .de that have special transfer rules
DNSSEC – Security protocol that protects DNS data from tampering
Wrap-up
Moving your domain from Squarespace is straightforward when you follow these steps. The key parts are unlocking your domain and getting that transfer authentication code to your new provider. Keep copies of all emails and communications during the process, and don't hesitate to contact support if you hit any snags.
Remember that transferring your domain doesn't automatically move your website or hosting. You'll need to handle those separately if you're planning a complete move away from Squarespace.
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