Fixing Canceled Domain Transfers on Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Clear the canceled transfer from your Squarespace account first
- Check your domain meets transfer requirements (over 60 days old, under 9 years registration)
- Double-check all details, especially the authorization code from your current provider
- Choose not to keep existing DNS records during the new transfer attempt
A canceled domain transfer doesn't mean you're stuck. Most transfer failures happen because of eligibility issues, incorrect details, or DNS conflicts. Here's how to get your domain moving to Squarespace.
Step 1: Clear the Canceled Transfer
Start by removing the failed transfer from your account. This clears any old configurations that might interfere with a fresh attempt.
Go to your Domains dashboard in Squarespace. If you can't see the canceled transfer, make sure you're logged into the right account. Find the domain and click "Remove transfer" in the Transfer canceled notification. Give your browser a refresh to see the changes take effect.
Step 2: Confirm Domain Eligibility
Your domain needs to tick several boxes before Squarespace will accept it:
Domain Age: It must have been with your current provider for over 60 days. This is an industry standard to prevent domain theft.
Registration Period: The total registration period can't exceed nine years. If it does, you'll need to wait until it drops below nine years.
Provider Blocks: Your current provider might have blocked the transfer. Contact them directly to find out why and get it resolved.
Domain Type Restrictions: Some domains can't be transferred to Squarespace. This includes subdomains and domains containing "squarespace" in the name. Check Squarespace's ineligible domains list for the full rundown.
Step 3: Verify Registration Details
Input errors cause more transfer failures than you'd think. Be extra careful with these details:
Authorization Code: Get a fresh code from your current provider and copy it exactly. Don't type it manually.
Contact Details: Make sure the registration details match what's in your current provider's system exactly.
Work through the transfer steps until you reach the DNS settings, then move to the final step.
Step 4: Adjust DNS Settings
When you reach the DNS part of the transfer setup, choose not to keep your existing DNS records. Old DNS settings often conflict with Squarespace's setup and cause transfers to fail.
After starting the transfer again, watch for DNS-related error messages. If you keep getting errors, contact Squarespace support with the specific error details.
FAQs
What should I do if my domain transfer gets canceled again?
Try connecting the domain directly to your Squarespace site instead of transferring it. If that doesn't work, contact your current domain host to find out what's blocking the transfer.
Why was my domain transfer denied?
The most common reasons are: domain too new (under 60 days), registration period too long (over 9 years), restricted domain type, or your current provider blocking the transfer.
Can all domain types be transferred to Squarespace?
No. Squarespace won't accept subdomains or domains containing certain terms like "squarespace". Check their eligibility requirements before attempting a transfer.
Jargon Buster
DNS Records: Digital records that connect your domain name to your website and other online services.
Authorization Code: A security code from your current domain registrar that proves you own the domain and authorize the transfer.
ccTLDs: Country-specific domain endings like .uk or .ca that indicate geographic location.
Wrap-up
Most canceled domain transfers come down to eligibility issues, typos in the transfer details, or DNS conflicts. Clear the old transfer, check your domain qualifies, double-check all your details, and start fresh with the DNS settings.
If you're still having trouble after following these steps, contact your current domain provider directly. They can often spot issues that aren't obvious from the Squarespace side.
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