Transfer Domain to Squarespace: Step-by-Step Guide Before Building Your Website
Here's how to transfer your domain to Squarespace before building your website:
Before Starting
- Verify you're the domain administrator
- Ensure your email address is accurate and accessible
- Remove any DNSSEC records
- Check ccTLD requirements if transferring country-specific domains
Timing & Costs
- Transfers take 1-15 days depending on your provider
- One-year registration fee required
- No additional transfer fees
- Existing registration time carries over
- Free WHOIS privacy and SSL included
Transfer Requirements
- Domain must be on Squarespace's supported TLD list
- Must be registered with current provider for 60+ days
- Domain must be active
- Cannot transfer premium domains, subdomains, or domains with 9+ years registration
Step-by-Step Transfer Process
- Prepare Your Domain
- Verify admin email address
- Unlock the domain
- Get authorization/EPP code from provider
- Start Transfer
- Visit domains.squarespace.com
- Click "Transfer Domain"
- Enter domain name
- Create account or sign in
- Authentication
- Confirm domain is unlocked
- Enter authorization code
- Review registration details
- Complete Purchase
- Enter payment information
- Review terms and pricing
- Confirm transfer
- Monitor Transfer
- Check status in parking page
- Address any error messages
- Wait for completion (up to 15 days)
- Post-Transfer
- Review DNS settings
- Verify MX records for email
- Cancel previous provider
- Set up website or parking page
Tips
- Back up email data before transfer
- Don't add Google Workspace during transfer
- Keep authorization code accessible
- Contact support if transfer takes longer than 15 days
Common Issues
- Domain lock errors
- Invalid authorization codes
- Missing DNS records
- Transfer cancellation needs
After completion, manage your domain through Squarespace's dashboard, including DNS settings, billing, and website connection.
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