Transferring domain names is a common process during the lifetime of a website owner. If you use GoDaddy and you are interested in migrating to Namecheap, this guide is for you.

Whether you have a personal blog or a professional website for your business, your reasons to do a domain name transfer can include better costs, infrastructure issues, or any strategic advantage this new registrar might offer.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap, how much it costs, and how much time it takes.

How to Transfer Domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap Step-by-Step

Here is a step-by-step guide to transferring your domain name from GoDaddy to Namecheap:

1. Enable Domain Transfer in GoDaddy

To enable domain transfer from GoDaddy to Namecheap, start by logging into your GoDaddy account.

In the “My Domains” section, select the specific domain you wish to transfer.

Within the domain settings, look for the “Enable Transfer Away” option and follow the prompts.

In the “Domain Portfolio” section, select the specific domain you wish to transfer.

Source: Namecheap.com

Within the domain settings, look for the “Lock” option and follow the prompts.

This process unlocks the domain for transfer.

2. Generate an Authentication Code in GoDaddy

Still within your GoDaddy account, open the domain’s settings and find the “Transfer Domain Away from GoDaddy” option.

GoDaddy will provide instructions for the transfer checklist.

Make sure that everything is in order and click “Click here to see Authorization Code”.

Source: Namecheap.com

You will be presented with the authentication code, which is essential for the transfer process.

3. Add 2 Namecheap Nameservers in GoDaddy

To avoid website downtime, you should add Namecheap’s nameservers to your GoDaddy domain.

These are found in your Namecheap account under “Domains” > “Authorize FreeDNS”.

Source: Namecheap.com

Copy two of these name servers and go back to GoDaddy. In GoDaddy, add these name servers as DNS records.

This step ensures an easier transition and minimizes downtime during the transfer.

4. Add all DNS Records in Namecheap

After initiating the transfer on Namecheap, you must manually add all your domain’s DNS records.

Copy these records from GoDaddy, including A, CNAME, MX, and TXT records.

Source: Namecheap.com

Within your Namecheap account, navigate to the specific domain’s settings and select “Advanced DNS”.

Add all your DNS records here to ensure seamless functioning of your website post-transfer.

5. Accept a Transfer Request in Namecheap

To complete the transfer process, log in to your Namecheap account.

In the “Domains” section, initiate the transfer by providing the necessary details, including the domain name and the authentication code you obtained from GoDaddy.

Finally, confirm your request by selecting “Approve Transfer”.

Source: Namecheap.com

Once you’ve submitted the request and made the payment, Namecheap will handle the transfer.

Be sure to confirm your email address and monitor it frequently for updates on the transfer status.

Why Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap Account

Transferring a domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap offers you certain benefits, including:

• Cost saving: Namecheap typically offers more competitive pricing, reducing annual domain costs compared to GoDaddy.
• No unwanted services: GoDaddy often bundles additional services that users may not need. Transferring to Namecheap allows you to opt for the services you require.
• Simplified domain management: If you have multiple domains in different registrars, this change can mean concentrating your domains in one registrar foreasier management.
• Transparent pricing: Namecheap pricing eliminates surprise renewals at significantly higher rates.
• Improved privacy: With Namecheap, you can maintain your domain contact information without additional privacy costs.
• Better customer support: Namecheap is known for its responsive customer support.
• Custom DNS management: You have more control over DNS records and configurations with Namecheap.
• Competitive TLD selection: Namecheap offers a wide range of domain extensions to choose from.
• Avoid renewal costs: Avoid GoDaddy’s high renewal prices after introductory offers expire.

Namecheap Domain Transfer Cost

On average, a domain transfer to Namecheap ranges from around $7.98 to $24.98 for popular TLDs like .com.

Yes, the TLD matters. The cost of transferring a domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap varies depending on it, making it the main factor for pricing.

This cost includes the transfer itself and extends the domain’s registration for an additional year.

Namecheap is known for its cost-effective domain transfer services, making it a good option for those seeking to switch registrars from GoDaddy and save money to invest in other parts of their websites.

Namecheap Domain Transfer Time

The time it takes to transfer a domain from GoDaddy to Namecheap is from 5 to 7 days, on average.

The actual duration depends on factors like the domain’s top-level extension (TLD), the responsiveness of the current registrar (GoDaddy), and the time taken to complete the necessary steps (such as approvals and safety confirmations).

During this transition, there might be a short period of downtime, especially if DNS records aren’t handled carefully.

It’s essential to consider this while planning your transfer to minimize your risks.

Final Word

As a website owner, your domain name goes beyond an aesthetic website address.

Picking the right domain registrar is a strategic decision that can determine if your website will succeed or not.

Changing registrars, by transferring domains, is an option to improve your digital strategy, from costs to structure.

If improving your website is one of your priorities this year, our curated list of the Best Web Hosting is a must.

After transferring your domain name, it is time to finally build a better website.

Next Steps: What Now?

• Find the Perfect Domain Hosting Service: If you are considering companies other than GoDaddy and Namecheap, check the top providers to pick the perfect competitors.
• Pick the right TLD for your domain name: Learn how to select the ideal domain extension, as .com, .org, .net.
• Domain vs Hosting: Explore how each service works and their costs for your digital project.

Learn More About Transferring a Domain

• How to Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy: Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Transfer a Domain to GoDaddy: Step-by-Step Guide
• Transferring a Domain between GoDaddy Accounts Step-by-Step
• Transferring Domain from GoDaddy to Google Step-by-Step
• How to Transfer a Domain Name: GoDaddy, Squarespace, Namecheap & Wix
• Transferring Domain from GoDaddy to Hostinger in 5 Easy Steps