Switch Your WordPress Domain to Squarespace
Moving your WordPress domain to Squarespace puts everything in one place – your site management, domain settings, and billing. The process is straightforward if you follow the right steps and have the correct details ready.
TL;DR:
- Transfer your WordPress domain directly to Squarespace to manage settings and billing in one place
- Update your domain's contact information and unlock the domain before starting
- Use the authorization code provided by WordPress for the transfer
- Confirm registration details, payment information, and review your order in Squarespace
- Monitor transfer status and adjust DNS settings if needed
- Contact WordPress if the transfer takes longer than 15 days
Before You Start
Review Squarespace's pricing and domain transfer requirements. If you have a custom email address linked to your domain, plan how you'll handle that during the move. Getting the timing right matters here.
Step 1: Access Your WordPress Account
Log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to My Site, then select Upgrades, followed by Domains. Choose the domain you want to transfer.
Step 2: Check Your Contact Information
Within the domain settings, update your contact details if needed. Make sure the email listed is accurate – all transfer communications will go there.
The domain's official contact should handle the transfer process to avoid any mix-ups.
Step 3: Unlock Your Domain
Go back to the domain settings, select Transfer Your Domain, then Transfer to Another Registrar. Unlock the domain to receive the authorization code via email. If the code doesn't arrive, request it be resent.
Step 4: Start Transfer in Squarespace
Log into Squarespace and open the Domains panel. Choose 'Use a domain I own', enter your domain name, and proceed to 'Transfer domain'. Enter the authorization code when prompted.
Step 5: Confirm Registration Details
In Squarespace, confirm your domain registration details match those initially registered. Adjust any details if necessary and save your changes.
Step 6: Payment Information
Review the payment details and make sure your card information is correct. Complete this section to move forward with the transfer.
Step 7: Review and Finalize Order
Double-check the transfer details and confirm the costs involved. Submit your order – you'll receive a confirmation that your transfer request was successful.
Keep an eye on your email for confirmation from both WordPress and Squarespace.
Step 8: Confirm Transfer via Email
WordPress will email an approval request. Click the link to confirm. If you don't click it, WordPress automatically approves the transfer after five days.
Step 9: Monitor the Transfer
Regularly check the status in the Squarespace Domains panel. Address any errors (like incorrect authorization code or the domain still being locked) quickly to avoid transfer delays.
Step 10: Adjust DNS Settings (Optional)
While waiting, you might want to review and adjust DNS settings. Important: Keep the MX records if you have a custom email address linked to the domain.
Step 11: Completion
The transfer should finish within 15 days. If not, contact WordPress. Once done, you'll get a final confirmation email.
FAQs
What should I do if my domain transfer fails?
Check the email from Squarespace for details and fix any issues mentioned. For further help, refer to Squarespace's support on domain transfer issues.
Can I cancel a domain transfer that's already in progress?
Yes, you may cancel the transfer if it's still pending. Check Squarespace's guide on how to cancel an ongoing transfer.
When should I contact WordPress regarding a delayed transfer?
If the transfer hasn't completed within 15 days, double-check you've followed all the steps correctly, then reach out to WordPress support for additional guidance.
Jargon Buster
Domain Transfer: Moving control of a domain from one host to another.
Authorization Code: A secure code needed to start the transfer of a domain.
DNS Settings: Settings that direct where emails go, where your site is hosted, and more.
Wrap-up
Transferring your domain from WordPress to Squarespace streamlines your website management by putting your domain settings and billing in one place. Follow each step carefully and keep your contact details up-to-date to smooth out the transfer process. Both WordPress and Squarespace support teams are there if you run into any problems.
Ready to make the switch? Join Pixelhaze Academy for more detailed guides and expert support throughout your website journey.