Transfer Your Domain from Bluehost to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Unlock your domain and disable privacy settings in Bluehost
- Get your EPP authorization code from Bluehost's security tab
- Start the transfer through Squarespace's Domains panel
- Verify all contact details match between both platforms
- Approve the transfer in Bluehost to speed up the process
- Transfers typically take 5 days but can extend to 15 days
Moving your domain from Bluehost to Squarespace consolidates everything under one roof. The process involves several steps across both platforms, but it's straightforward once you know what to expect.
Getting Started in Bluehost
Log into your Bluehost account and head to "My Domains." Select the domain you want to transfer and click "Manage."
First, check your contact information. Look at the Registrant, Admin, and Billing sections. If anything's outdated or incorrect, update it now and save your changes. This step matters because mismatched details between platforms cause transfer delays.
Preparing Your Domain for Transfer
Navigate to the "Security" tab in your domain management area. You'll need to make two changes:
Turn off the "Transfer Lock" by toggling the switch. This unlocks your domain so it can move to another registrar.
Disable Domain Privacy if it's currently enabled. The transfer won't work with privacy protection active, though you can re-enable it once the transfer completes.
Getting Your EPP Code
Still in the Security tab, find the "Transfer Authorization / EPP Code" section. This code acts as a password proving you own the domain.
Select a verified email address from the dropdown menu. Bluehost will send the EPP code to this address. Keep this code handy as you'll need it for the Squarespace side of the transfer.
Starting the Transfer in Squarespace
Open your Squarespace account and go to the Domains panel. Choose the option to use a domain you already own.
Enter your domain name and provide the EPP code when prompted. Squarespace will pull in your existing registration details automatically.
Review everything carefully. Make sure the contact information matches what you have in Bluehost. Any discrepancies can halt the transfer process.
Completing the Transfer
Check your billing information and note the cost for extending your domain registration by one year. Domain transfers always include this renewal.
Review the final order details and confirm the transaction. Squarespace will show a confirmation message indicating the transfer has started.
Managing the Transfer Process
Monitor the transfer status through your Squarespace Domains panel. If error messages appear, they'll usually point to specific issues like the domain still being locked or an incorrect authorization code.
Speed things up by approving the transfer directly in Bluehost's Transfer panel. You don't have to wait for email notifications.
The transfer typically takes around 5 days, though it can extend to 15 days if complications arise. Both platforms will keep you updated on progress.
FAQs
Is transferring my domain to Squarespace free?
No, transfers include a one-year domain renewal. Costs vary by domain type (.com, .org, etc.). Occasionally, Squarespace runs promotions that cover transfer costs.
How long does the transfer take?
Usually 5 days, but can take up to 15 days if there are complications or delays in approval.
What happens if the transfer fails?
Squarespace will notify you of the specific issue. Common problems include locked domains, incorrect EPP codes, or mismatched contact information. Fix the issue and restart the process.
Will my website go down during the transfer?
No, your website stays online. The transfer only moves domain management between registrars.
Jargon Buster
EPP Code: A secure authorization code from your current registrar that proves you own the domain and can transfer it.
TLD: Top-Level Domain – the part after the dot in your domain name, like .com or .org.
Transfer Lock: A security feature that prevents unauthorized domain transfers.
Domain Privacy: A service that hides your personal contact information from public domain records.
Wrap-up
Transferring your domain from Bluehost to Squarespace brings everything under one platform, making management simpler. The process requires attention to detail, particularly with contact information and security settings, but it's manageable.
Take your time with each step and double-check details before confirming. If you run into problems, both Bluehost and Squarespace support teams can help troubleshoot specific issues.
Ready to take your Squarespace skills further? Join Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth courses and expert guidance.