How to Transfer Your Domain from FastDomain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Start the process at least 46 days before your domain renewal date
- Verify your admin contact info in FastDomain before starting
- Unlock your domain and get the EPP code from FastDomain
- Initiate the transfer in Squarespace using the EPP code
- Approve the transfer through FastDomain to speed things up
- The whole process takes 5-15 days and costs one year of domain registration
Step 1: Prepare for the Transfer
Before you start, check FastDomain's transfer requirements and pricing. FastDomain recommends starting the transfer at least 46 days before your domain renewal date to avoid any complications.
Step 2: Login and Verify Contact Information
Log into your FastDomain account
- Go to the 'Domain' section and select the domain you want to transfer
Check your contact information
- Click the 'Contacts' tab in your domain details
- Make sure the Admin contact information is current and correct
- This is where you'll receive transfer confirmation emails
Important: Updating the Registrant's information will lock your domain for 60 days due to ICANN regulations. Only update the Admin contact if needed.
Step 3: Unlock the Domain
Your domain needs to be unlocked before it can be transferred:
- Click the 'Lock' tab in your domain settings
- Set your domain status to unlocked
Step 4: Get the EPP Code
The EPP code is like a password that Squarespace needs to authorize the transfer:
- Find the 'Transfer EPP' tab in your domain settings
- Copy and save the EPP code somewhere safe
Step 5: Start the Transfer in Squarespace
In your Squarespace site's Domains panel:
- Select 'Use a domain I own'
- Enter your domain name
- Choose 'Transfer domain'
- Enter the EPP code when prompted
Step 6: Check Registration Details
Squarespace will pull your registration details from WHOIS records. Check that everything is accurate. Any changes you make here will update your official WHOIS records after the transfer.
Step 7: Review Payment Information
Check the payment method and charges. Transferring a domain includes extending your registration by one year at Squarespace's pricing.
Step 8: Complete the Order
After confirming all details and payment, submit the transfer request. You'll get a confirmation message once it's processed.
Step 9: Approve the Transfer in FastDomain
You can speed up the process by manually approving the transfer in your FastDomain account:
- Go to your Domain Manager
- Look for the pending transfer
- Approve it to avoid waiting for the automatic approval
Step 10: Monitor the Transfer
Check the transfer status in your Squarespace panel. Watch out for issues like locked domain status or incorrect EPP codes that might slow things down.
Step 11: Manage DNS Settings (Optional)
While waiting for the transfer to complete, you can review and adjust your DNS settings in the Squarespace panel to make sure your website and email services keep working.
Step 12: Transfer Complete
Once the transfer is done, you'll manage everything through Squarespace. FastDomain will confirm they've released your domain. If there are any issues or delays beyond 15 days, contact FastDomain support.
FAQs
Can I transfer my FastDomain domain to Squarespace for free?
No, domain transfers cost money and include an additional year of registration based on your domain's extension (.com, .net, etc.).
How long does a domain transfer take?
Usually about 5 days, but it can take up to 15 days depending on how quickly both registrars process things.
What happens if I want to cancel the transfer?
You can cancel while the transfer is still pending. Check your Squarespace account or contact their support for help with cancellation.
Jargon Buster
- TLD (Top-Level Domain): The end part of your domain name like .com or .net
- WHOIS Records: A database that stores information about who owns a domain
- DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates domain names into IP addresses
- EPP Code: A special password needed to transfer domains between registrars
- SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): Security technology that encrypts data between browsers and websites
Wrap-up
Transferring your domain from FastDomain to Squarespace puts all your website management in one place. Follow these steps carefully and you'll have a smooth transfer. If you run into problems, both FastDomain and Squarespace support teams can help you out.
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