A domain name in the internet world is a tradeable product and many business operations require a change of domain owner. Company sales, rebranding, small business mergers into larger companies or regular deals — all of these require a domain transfer. But changing the owner is not a simple operation; it is strictly regulated by ICANN rules and international standards, and each stage must be performed carefully.
What to do before the transfer
Before changing the domain owner some preparation work needs to be done. First, the domain must have been registered for at least 60 days because under ICANN rules new domains cannot be transferred during that time. This rule was created to prevent fraud through domain sales and is enforced strictly.
Second, Domain Lock must be off and the EPP code (transfer authorization code) must be obtained. This code is provided by the current registrar and given only to the real domain owner. After receiving the code, the new owner can start the transfer process at the new registrar.
EPP code and its role
EPP code or transfer code is the most important element in a domain transfer. It is a unique 16-32 character code that can be received only by the real owner and it serves as proof of ownership during transfer. The code is valid for 7-10 days and the transfer must be started during this time.
The security of the code is extremely important because if it falls into the wrong hands the domain can be stolen. That is why right after receiving the EPP code it must be safely passed to the new owner and the first stages performed quickly. Once the code expires the transfer stops and a new code must be requested.
ICANN rules and time limits
ICANN is the international organization managing internet domains and addresses, and it has set clear rules for domain transfer. The transfer process usually takes 5 to 7 days and during this time both registrars get confirmations from the owner. In most cases the transfer is confirmed automatically, but if there is no response the process can take longer.
Another important rule is that for 60 days after a transfer no new transfer can be done. Through this lock-in period ICANN prevents chaotic transfers and protects the rights of the owner. So if the domain is being resold, at least 2 months must pass.
Transfer cost and payments
A domain transfer is usually done with a new yearly payment and it counts as the transfer cost. Most registrars offer transfer at the price of 1 year of registration and the domain validity is automatically extended by 1 year. This is good for the client because the new yearly payment effectively makes the transfer service free.
For premium domains and special TLDs the transfer price may be higher and in some cases extra payments are required. For example, .uz domains follow local rules and the transfer process can be slightly different. After the owner change, payment details and contact info must also be updated.
Sayt.uz practice
The domain transfer service through Sayt.uz costs 130,000 sums per year and includes 1 year of registration. Last year 467 transfers were completed successfully and the average process time was 4.2 days. Clients get professional help: obtaining the EPP code, preparing documents and 24/7 advice on the next steps. There is also a special transfer service for .uz domains operating under local rules and taking on average 7 days. Premium clients are offered an express transfer for 280,000 sums with a 2-day completion guarantee.