How To Transfer Domain From Squarespace To Godaddy ?
Transferring a domain from Squarespace to GoDaddy may seem daunting, but with the right steps, it’s a smooth and manageable process. Whether you want to consolidate domains under one provider, access GoDaddy’s advanced domain management tools, or simplify billing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why Transfer Your Domain From Squarespace To GoDaddy?
Before diving into the process, let’s consider why you might want to make this transfer:
- Advanced Domain Management: GoDaddy offers more tools for DNS management, domain forwarding, and security features.
- Cost Efficiency: GoDaddy may offer competitive renewal pricing or bundled services.
- Centralized Hosting: If you have multiple domains or websites, managing them from a single provider simplifies administration.
- Additional Services: GoDaddy provides email hosting, SSL certificates, and website builders that can complement your domain.
Understanding the benefits helps ensure that the transfer aligns with your long-term website strategy.
Step 1: Prepare Your Squarespace Domain
Before transferring, ensure your Squarespace domain is ready. Follow these steps:
1. Verify Domain Eligibility
- Domains must be at least 60 days old to transfer.
- Domains recently transferred or renewed may have a lock period; check your Squarespace domain status.
2. Unlock the Domain
- Log in to your Squarespace account.
- Navigate to Settings > Domains.
- Select the domain you want to transfer.
- Turn off the domain lock to allow transfers.
3. Obtain the Authorization Code (EPP Code)
- Squarespace provides an EPP code required by GoDaddy for the transfer.
- Go to Settings > Domains > Transfer Out, and copy the authorization code.
- Keep this code secure; you’ll need it during the GoDaddy transfer.
4. Confirm Contact Details
- Ensure the domain’s administrative email is current.
- GoDaddy may send verification emails to this address, so it must be accessible.
Step 2: Initiate the Transfer at GoDaddy
Once your Squarespace domain is unlocked and you have the EPP code, start the transfer process on GoDaddy:
1. Create or Log Into Your GoDaddy Account
- Go to and log in.
- If you don’t have an account, create one using a valid email.
2. Start the Domain Transfer
- Navigate to Domains > Transfer Domains.
- Enter the domain name you want to transfer.
- Click Continue.
3. Enter Authorization Code
- Paste the EPP/authorization code you received from Squarespace.
- Confirm the domain details.
4. Choose Your Plan and Payment
- GoDaddy charges a fee for domain transfers (usually includes a 1-year renewal).
- Complete the payment process.
5. Verify Ownership
- Check your administrative email for a verification message from GoDaddy.
- Approve the transfer to proceed.
Step 3: Wait for the Transfer to Complete
- Domain transfers typically take 5-7 days.
- During this period, your website and email services may remain active if DNS is unchanged.
- Avoid making DNS changes or cancelling hosting until the transfer finalizes.
Pro Tip: Monitor your email for any alerts from Squarespace or GoDaddy to prevent delays.
Step 4: Update DNS Settings on GoDaddy
After the transfer is complete, verify that your website and email services continue to work:
- Log in to GoDaddy and navigate to My Products > Domains.
- Select the transferred domain and click Manage DNS.
- Update records if needed:
- A Record: Points to your web hosting server.
- CNAME Records: Used for subdomains like
www. - MX Records: Essential if you use email with the domain.
- Test your website and email to ensure everything functions correctly.
Step 5: Secure Your Domain
Once the transfer is successful:
- Enable Domain Lock on GoDaddy to prevent unauthorized transfers.
- Turn on WHOIS privacy protection to keep your contact information private.
- Consider activating two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
Common Issues and How To Solve Them
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Transfer denied | Ensure domain is unlocked and 60+ days old |
| Missing EPP code | Request the code again from Squarespace |
| Email verification not received | Check spam/junk folder; ensure administrative email is correct |
| DNS disruption | Verify DNS settings immediately after transfer |
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Plan Ahead: Avoid transferring during peak website activity.
- Backup Website Data: Even if DNS is not changing, it’s good practice to backup your site.
- Track the Transfer: GoDaddy provides a dashboard to monitor progress.
- Communicate with Users: If you run a business, notify your audience about potential short downtime (usually minimal).
Conclusion
Transferring a domain from Squarespace to GoDaddy doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the steps outlined in this guide—preparing your domain, using the EPP code, initiating the transfer, and verifying DNS—you can move your domain securely and efficiently. This process gives you greater control over your domain, improved management tools, and flexibility for your online presence.
