Transfer Your Namecheap Domain to Squarespace
TL;DR:
- Transfer your Namecheap domain to manage everything from your Squarespace account
- Check your domain contact info is current before starting
- Unlock your domain and get the authorization code from Namecheap
- Enter the authorization code in Squarespace to start the transfer
- The transfer takes up to 15 days but usually completes faster
- Don't change DNS settings during the transfer process
Step 1: Log Into Your Namecheap Account
Start by accessing your Namecheap account:
- Go to the Namecheap website and log in
- Navigate to 'Domain List', select your domain, and click 'Manage'
Step 2: Check Your Domain Contact Information
Make sure your domain's registered contact details are accurate:
- Review the information under 'Domain Contacts'
- If you need to update anything, edit and save the changes
- If you change the registrant's info, opt out of the transfer lock to avoid delays
Step 3: Unlock Your Domain
Prepare your domain for transfer:
- Open the 'Sharing & Transfer' section and scroll to 'Transfer Out'
- If 'Domain Lock' is active, select 'Unlock'
- Request an authorization code (you'll need this for Squarespace)
Step 4: Start the Transfer on Squarespace
In your Squarespace account:
- Open the 'Domains' panel and select 'Use a domain I own'
- Enter your domain name, click to transfer it, and input the authorization code
Step 5: Confirm Registration Details
In the Squarespace registration panel:
- Check that the auto-populated registration details from WHOIS are correct
- Make any necessary adjustments and confirm the details
Step 6: Enter Payment Information
- Review the payment method linked to your Squarespace account
- Confirm the transaction details for the additional year of domain registration
Step 7: Final Review and Confirmation
- Check and finalize the transfer details
- Confirm and complete the purchase to proceed with the domain transfer
Step 8: Accept the Transfer from Namecheap
- Follow the instructions from Namecheap's email to approve the domain transfer
Step 9: Monitor Transfer Status
- Check your Squarespace Domains panel regularly for transfer updates
- Address any error messages related to domain lock or authorization codes
Keep an eye on your email for notifications from both Squarespace and Namecheap about the transfer status.
Step 10: Review DNS Settings (Optional)
- While waiting, you can assess DNS settings but avoid making changes until the transfer completes
Step 11: Transfer Completion
- After approval from Namecheap and processing time, the domain will fully transfer to Squarespace
- You'll receive a confirmation email when the transfer is complete
FAQs
Can I cancel a Namecheap to Squarespace domain transfer?
Yes, you can cancel a pending transfer through Squarespace support.
How long does the transfer usually take?
It takes up to 15 days, but contact Namecheap if the transfer exceeds this timeframe.
What if I prefer to keep my domain on Namecheap?
You can connect your domain with Squarespace rather than transferring it, which is often smoother if issues arise.
Jargon Buster
Domain Transfer: Moving control of a domain from one host (Namecheap) to another (Squarespace).
Authorization Code: A security code required to verify ownership and approve domain transfers.
WHOIS Records: Database entries showing the registered domain owner's contact details.
DNS Settings: Settings that manage where your domain points, crucial for loading your website or handling email services.
SSL: Security technology ensuring encrypted connections on your website.
Wrap-up
Transferring your domain from Namecheap to Squarespace puts your website and domain management in one place, making admin tasks much easier. The process is straightforward but requires patience during the up-to-15-day waiting period. Once complete, you'll handle all your domain's administrative functions directly from your Squarespace account.
Ready to learn more about managing your Squarespace site? Check out our comprehensive courses at Pixelhaze Academy.