Complete Guide to Domain Transfer: Step-by-Step Process

Introduction to Domain Transfers

A domain transfer is the process of moving your domain name from one registrar to another. This administrative change does not affect your website or email services in any way. Think of it like switching banks for your savings account – the money stays safe, but a different institution manages your paperwork. Your domain remains active while its management moves to a new provider. This change can simplify your online management, help you access better pricing, or connect you with improved support services.

For New Zealand businesses and individuals, understanding domain name transfers becomes even more important when dealing with .nz domains. These domains follow specific guidelines set by the Domain Name Commission. Moving your domain to a registrar that understands local requirements helps maintain compliance with these rules. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire domain transfer process, from preparation to completion.

This resource covers everything you need to know about domain transfers. You’ll discover how to prepare your domain correctly, what costs to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Most importantly, you’ll see why choosing the right registrar makes all the difference in your online success.

Key Takeaways

Domain transfers involve moving your domain management from one provider to another without affecting your website or email services. The process requires proper preparation, an authorisation code, and careful attention to DNS settings. Hosting Tap simplifies this transition by offering affordable domain services, reliable hosting options, and 24/7 customer support to guide you through every step.

Understanding the “Why” and “When” of Domain Transfers

Switching registrars offers numerous benefits for domain owners. Cost savings often motivate people to explore domain transfers, as different registrars offer varying pricing structures and renewal rates. Better customer support represents another compelling reason to change providers. When technical issues arise or you need assistance with domain management, having access to knowledgeable support staff can save time and prevent headaches.

Service consolidation appeals to many business owners who prefer managing their domain registration, web hosting, and email services through a single provider. This approach simplifies billing, reduces administrative overhead, and creates a more streamlined experience. However, timing plays a vital role in determining whether a domain transfer is possible at any given moment.

Certain restrictions can prevent domain transfers from proceeding. Understanding these limitations helps you plan your transfer timing appropriately.

Why Transfer Your Domain?

Moving your domain to a new registrar can provide several key benefits:

• Cost savings through competitive pricing
• Better customer support and assistance
• Service consolidation for streamlined management
• Access to modern management interfaces

Customer support quality varies significantly between registrars. Some companies provide 24/7 phone support, while others rely on email tickets or chat systems. Having reliable support becomes particularly important when dealing with technical issues that could affect your website’s accessibility. Registrars with local expertise, especially for .nz domains, understand regional requirements and can provide more relevant assistance.

Service integration offers long-term benefits for growing businesses. When your domain registration, web hosting, and email services work together seamlessly, managing your online presence becomes much simpler. Updates to one service automatically sync with others, reducing the chance of configuration errors. This integration also streamlines billing and support interactions.

When You Cannot Transfer a Domain

Fresh registrations or recent transfers create temporary restrictions on domain mobility. ICANN regulations enforce a 60-day lock period after initial registration or successful transfer to another registrar. This security measure prevents rapid, potentially fraudulent domain transfers. The waiting period gives registrars time to verify ownership and prevents malicious actors from quickly moving stolen domains.

Domain security locks provide another barrier to unauthorized transfers. Most registrars enable these locks by default to protect against hijacking attempts. Before initiating any domain transfer, you must access your current registrar’s control panel and disable this protection feature. The process typically involves clicking a toggle switch or selecting an unlock option from a menu.

Expiring domains face additional restrictions depending on your current registrar’s policies. Some companies prevent transfers when domains approach their expiration date, typically within 7 to 21 days. This policy ensures domains don’t expire during the transfer process, which could complicate ownership verification. Renewing your domain before starting the transfer eliminates this potential obstacle.

Contact information accuracy affects transfer success significantly. Outdated email addresses in your WHOIS records prevent you from receiving important verification messages. Most registrars send transfer authorization requests to the administrative contact email listed in these records. If this address no longer works, the transfer process stalls until you update the information with your current provider.

The Step-by-Step Domain Transfer Process

Successfully completing a domain transfer requires following specific steps in the correct order. Each action builds on the previous one, creating a secure pathway for moving your domain between registrars. Skipping steps or rushing through the process often leads to delays or failed transfers. This detailed guide ensures you understand every requirement and can complete your domain migration smoothly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Domain for Transfer

Preparation forms the foundation of every successful domain transfer. Follow these essential steps:

1. Log into your current registrar’s account dashboard
2. Locate and disable domain lock/registrar lock settings
3. Review and update WHOIS contact information
4. Consider temporarily disabling domain privacy services
5. Document current DNS settings for backup

Domain privacy services can interfere with transfer communications. These services mask your personal information in public WHOIS databases by substituting the privacy company’s contact details. While useful for protecting your information, they might prevent transfer-related emails from reaching you directly. Consider temporarily disabling privacy protection during the transfer process to avoid communication issues.

Is your domain ready for the next phase?

“The biggest mistake people make with domain transfers is rushing the process. Take time to document your current settings and double-check everything before you start.” – Brian Dean, SEO Expert and Founder of Backlinko

Step 2: Obtain Your Authorisation Code (Auth Code/EPP Key/UDAI)

The authorization code serves as your domain’s security key during transfers. This unique string of characters proves you own the domain and have permission to move it between registrars. Different domain types use slightly different terminology for this code, but the function remains identical across all extensions.

International domains like .com, .org, and .net typically use the term EPP key or authorization code. For .nz domains, this code was historically called a UDAI (Unique Domain Authentication Identifier), though most registrars now use the standard “authorization code” terminology. Regardless of the name, obtaining this code from your current registrar is essential for proceeding with your transfer.

Access your registrar’s control panel and navigate to the domain management section. Look for options labeled “Authorization Code,” “Transfer Code,” “EPP Key,” or similar terms. Some registrars display this code directly in the interface, while others require you to request it through a support ticket or phone call. Legitimate registrars must provide this code free of charge when requested by the domain owner.

Authorization codes typically expire after 30 days and work only once per transfer attempt. If your transfer fails for any reason, you’ll need to generate a new code before trying again. Store this code securely but avoid sharing it with anyone except your new registrar. Treat it like a password – anyone with access to this code could potentially steal your domain.

Step 3: Choose Your New Registrar and Initiate the Transfer

Selecting the right registrar significantly impacts your long-term domain management experience. Research potential providers by comparing their pricing structures, customer support options, and additional services. Look for registrars that offer competitive renewal rates, not just attractive first-year prices. Hidden fees or expensive renewals can negate any initial savings.

“When choosing a domain registrar, don’t just look at the price. Consider the quality of customer support, the user interface, and additional services. A few dollars saved isn’t worth hours of frustration when you need help.” – Matt Cutts, former Google Search Quality Team Lead

For .nz domains, choosing an authorised registrar provides additional benefits. These companies maintain direct relationships with the Domain Name Commission and understand local compliance requirements. They can provide more accurate guidance on .nz-specific policies and help resolve issues more efficiently.

Hosting Tap stands out as an excellent choice for domain transfers, especially for New Zealand businesses and individuals. We offer affordable domain pricing combined with reliable web hosting and professional email services. Our 24/7 customer support team understands both local .nz requirements and international domain management. By choosing Hosting Tap, you gain access to a unified platform where you can manage all aspects of your online presence efficiently.

Creating an account with your new registrar starts the formal transfer process. Most companies offer streamlined registration that takes just a few minutes to complete. Once your account is active, locate the domain transfer section and enter your domain name along with the authorization code you obtained earlier. The system will validate this information and begin processing your transfer request.

Step 4: Confirm and Verify the Transfer

The confirmation phase involves responding to verification emails sent by both registrars. Your current registrar might send a message asking you to approve the outgoing transfer. The new registrar typically sends a welcome message with instructions for completing the setup. Read these emails carefully and follow any required steps promptly.

International domain transfers often require additional verification steps that can take several days to complete. The losing registrar has five days to either approve or deny the transfer request. During this period, they might send emails asking you to confirm your intention to leave. Responding quickly to these messages helps speed up the process and prevents automatic rejections.

.nz domain transfers usually process much faster, often completing within hours rather than days. The streamlined process reflects the Domain Name Commission’s efforts to make domain management more efficient for New Zealand users. However, you should still monitor your email for any required confirmations or notifications about the transfer status.

After receiving confirmation that your transfer completed successfully, verify the change by performing a WHOIS lookup on your domain. This public database should now show your new registrar as the domain’s managing company. Check that all contact information appears correctly and that the expiration date reflects any renewal that occurred during the transfer.

Configure your DNS settings to match your hosting and email requirements. Your new registrar might use different default nameservers, so ensure your website and email continue working properly. Test your website’s accessibility and send test emails to confirm everything functions as expected. Re-enable any security features like domain locks or privacy protection through your new registrar’s interface.

Specific Considerations for .nz Domains and International Transfers

Different domain extensions follow distinct transfer procedures and requirements. Understanding these variations helps you plan appropriately and avoid unexpected complications. .nz domains benefit from streamlined local processes, while international domains involve additional verification steps and costs.

.nz Domain Specifics

New Zealand domains operate under rules established by the Domain Name Commission, creating some unique aspects for transfer procedures. The authorization code for these domains was traditionally called a UDAI, though current industry practice favors the standard “authorization code” terminology. This change reflects efforts to align local practices with international standards while maintaining the security benefits of the system.

Choosing a .nz-authorised registrar provides several advantages for domain owners. These companies maintain direct relationships with the Domain Name Commission and stay current on policy changes. They can offer more accurate guidance on compliance requirements and help resolve disputes more efficiently. Authorised registrars also participate in the commission’s ongoing efforts to improve domain management services for New Zealand users.

.nz domain transfers typically complete immediately once all requirements are met. This speed reflects the commission’s commitment to efficient domain administration and reduced bureaucracy. Unlike international transfers that might take several days, .nz transfers allow you to see results almost instantly. This quick turnaround helps minimize any potential service interruptions.

Cost structures for .nz domain transfers often favor domain owners. Many registrars offer free transfers, with remaining registration time carrying forward to your new provider. This policy means you don’t lose money when switching registrars, making it easier to find better services or pricing. However, verify specific terms with your chosen registrar before initiating the transfer.

International Domain Transfer Considerations

International domains like .com, .org, and .net follow procedures established by ICANN, the global domain oversight organization. These transfers typically involve more verification steps and longer processing times compared to local domains. Understanding these requirements helps you plan appropriately and avoid frustration during the waiting period.

The authorization code for international domains commonly goes by the name EPP key, reflecting the technical protocol used for domain transfers. This code serves the same security function as authorization codes for other domain types. Always obtain a fresh EPP key from your current registrar rather than using an old one that might have expired.

International domain transfers almost always include renewal fees. This charge extends your domain’s expiration date by 12 months beyond its current expiry. While this represents an additional cost, it also provides value by extending your registration period. Factor this expense into your transfer budget to avoid surprises.

Aspect	.nz Domains	International Domains
Transfer Time	Immediate	5-7 business days
Authorization Code	Auth Code/UDAI	EPP Key
Renewal Requirement	Optional	Mandatory (1 year)
Transfer Lock Period	60 days	60 days
Governing Body	Domain Name Commission	ICANN

Confirmation requirements for international transfers often involve multiple parties. The losing registrar might send emails asking you to approve the transfer. The gaining registrar will request verification of your transfer intent. ICANN regulations require these steps to prevent unauthorized domain theft. Respond promptly to all verification requests to prevent transfer delays or failures.

The 60-day transfer lock applies strictly to international domains. This restriction prevents transfers within 60 days of initial registration, previous transfers, or significant contact information changes. Plan your transfer timing accordingly, especially if you’ve recently updated your WHOIS details or completed another domain transaction.

Costs and Common Issues in Domain Transfers

Understanding potential expenses and common problems helps you budget appropriately and troubleshoot issues that might arise. While many transfers proceed smoothly, being prepared for complications ensures you can address them quickly and minimize downtime.

Costs Associated with Domain Transfers

.nz domain transfers typically involve minimal direct costs. Most registrars offer free transfer services, recognizing that the ongoing relationship value exceeds any processing fees. However, if your domain approaches its expiration date, your current registrar might require renewal before allowing the transfer. This renewal cost varies between providers but typically matches standard renewal pricing.

International domain transfers almost always include renewal fees. ICANN regulations require gaining registrars to extend the domain’s registration by one year as part of the transfer process. This extension adds to your current expiration date rather than replacing it, so you don’t lose any existing registration time. Budget for this cost when planning your transfer, as it represents the largest expense in most cases.

Some registrars impose processing fees or service charges for transfers. These fees might cover administrative costs or value-added services like expedited processing. Review the fee structure carefully before initiating your transfer to understand all costs involved. Transparent registrars list all charges upfront, while others might surprise you with additional fees during the process.

Value-added services can increase transfer costs but provide additional benefits. Domain privacy protection, premium DNS services, or email forwarding might carry separate charges. Evaluate whether these services justify their costs based on your specific needs. Sometimes transferring to a registrar that includes these services for free can provide better overall value despite higher base prices.

Troubleshooting Common Domain Transfer Issues

Transfer failures often stem from preventable issues that careful preparation can avoid. Common transfer problems include:

• Invalid or expired authorization codes
• Domain lock settings still enabled
• Outdated contact information in WHOIS
• Recent registration or transfer activity
• Email verification failures

Domain lock settings frequently cause transfer delays. Even if you believe you’ve unlocked your domain, verify the setting through your registrar’s control panel. Some systems take time to process unlock requests, so allow several hours between unlocking and initiating the transfer. Contact customer support if the unlock option isn’t available or doesn’t seem to work properly.

Outdated contact information creates significant obstacles for domain transfers. Verification emails sent to incorrect addresses never reach you, causing automatic transfer rejections. Update your WHOIS information well before starting the transfer process. Some registrars impose waiting periods after contact changes, so planning ahead prevents unnecessary delays.

Why do some transfers take longer than expected?

Recent registration or transfer activity can trigger security holds that prevent new transfers. The 60-day rule applies strictly, with no exceptions for urgent situations. Check your domain’s registration history before planning a transfer to avoid conflicts with this restriction. If you need to update contact information, do it well before any planned transfer to avoid extending the waiting period.

Email verification failures represent another common stumbling block. Spam filters might intercept transfer-related emails, or they might arrive in folders you don’t check regularly. Monitor your email carefully during the transfer period and check spam folders if expected messages don’t arrive. Whitelist your new registrar’s email addresses to prevent filtering issues.

Dispute resolution becomes necessary when registrars refuse to provide authorization codes or cooperate with legitimate transfer requests. For .nz domains, the Domain Name Commission offers dispute resolution services that can force compliance with transfer requirements. International domains can appeal to ICANN or relevant registry operators for assistance. Document your attempts to resolve issues directly with the registrar before escalating to higher authorities.

Impact on Your Online Presence: Website, Email, and SEO

Domain transfers primarily affect administrative aspects of your online presence rather than technical operations. However, proper planning prevents potential disruptions to your website accessibility, email delivery, or search engine rankings. Understanding these connections helps you maintain seamless service throughout the transfer process.

Website and Email Services

Your website hosting operates independently from domain registration in most configurations. The domain transfer changes who manages your registration records but doesn’t directly affect where your website files are stored or how they’re served to visitors. This separation means your site should remain accessible throughout the transfer process if your DNS settings are configured correctly.

DNS configuration represents the critical link between your domain and your services. These settings tell visitors’ browsers where to find your website and direct email messages to the correct servers. Before starting your transfer, document all your current DNS records:

• Nameservers
• A records
• CNAME records
• MX records
• Any custom configurations

Consider updating your DNS settings before initiating the transfer rather than after. Many registrars allow you to make these changes at any time, regardless of pending transfers. Making adjustments early prevents any timing issues that might arise during the transfer process. Test your changes thoroughly to confirm everything works correctly before proceeding with the domain migration.

Email service continuity depends heavily on proper MX record configuration. These DNS records specify which servers handle your email delivery. If you use email services tied to your domain name, verify that these records transfer correctly to your new registrar. Test email sending and receiving after the transfer completes to confirm everything functions properly.

Third-party services like website hosting or email providers often simplify DNS management by providing their own nameservers. Using these nameservers can reduce the complexity of your transfer since the DNS records remain with your service provider rather than your domain registrar. This approach also provides more stability if you frequently change registrars.

SEO and Website Performance

Search engines focus on your website’s content, structure, and user experience rather than administrative details like registrar information. A properly executed domain transfer should have no direct impact on your search rankings. However, technical mistakes during the transfer process can create indirect problems that affect your SEO performance.

“A properly executed domain transfer should have zero impact on your search rankings. The key is maintaining consistent DNS settings and avoiding any downtime during the process.” – John Mueller, Google Search Advocate

Website downtime represents the biggest SEO risk during domain transfers. If DNS configuration errors prevent search engines from accessing your site, they might interpret this as a technical problem or service interruption. Extended downtime can lead to reduced crawling frequency or lower rankings. Minimize this risk by testing your DNS settings thoroughly before and after the transfer.

DNS propagation creates temporary accessibility variations that are normal parts of the transfer process. Different internet service providers update their DNS caches at different rates, meaning some users might experience brief delays accessing your site. These variations typically resolve within 24-48 hours and rarely affect search engine performance significantly.

Page loading speed can be influenced by DNS resolution times, though the impact is usually minimal. Some registrars offer faster DNS services than others, potentially improving your site’s responsiveness. However, the difference is typically measured in milliseconds rather than seconds, making it imperceptible to most users and search engines.

Redirect requirements only apply if you’re changing your domain name as part of the transfer process. Moving from one registrar to another while keeping the same domain name requires no redirects. However, if you’re consolidating multiple domains or changing your primary domain, implement proper 301 redirects to preserve your search rankings and link equity.

Monitor your website’s performance closely for several weeks after completing the transfer. Use tools like Google Search Console to watch for crawling errors or accessibility issues. Address any problems quickly to prevent lasting impacts on your search visibility. Most transfers complete without any SEO consequences, but vigilant monitoring provides peace of mind.

Bulk Domain Transfers and Advanced Considerations

Managing multiple domains requires different strategies and tools compared to single domain transfers. Understanding these approaches helps streamline the process and avoid complications that can arise when dealing with large domain portfolios or special circumstances.

Bulk Domain Transfers

Large domain portfolios benefit significantly from bulk transfer tools offered by many registrars. Instead of managing dozens or hundreds of individual transfers, these systems allow you to process multiple domains simultaneously. The time savings can be substantial for businesses managing extensive domain collections.

Preparing for bulk transfers requires careful organization and documentation. Follow these essential steps:

1. Create a spreadsheet with all domain information
2. Standardize contact information across all domains
3. Obtain authorization codes for all domains
4. Use CSV templates provided by your new registrar
5. Monitor transfer progress through registrar dashboards

CSV file uploads represent the most common method for initiating bulk transfers. Most registrars provide templates showing the required format for domain names, authorization codes, and contact information. Follow these templates exactly to prevent formatting errors that could cause processing failures. Double-check your data before uploading to catch typos or missing information.

Monitoring bulk transfer progress requires different tools than individual transfers. Most registrars provide dashboards showing the status of each domain in your batch. These interfaces typically highlight domains that encountered problems, allowing you to address issues individually while the successful transfers continue processing. This selective approach prevents one problem domain from holding up the entire batch.

Error handling becomes more complex with bulk transfers since different domains might fail for different reasons. Common issues include expired authorization codes, locked domains, or formatting problems in your upload file. Review error reports carefully and group similar problems together for efficient resolution. Fix underlying issues systematically rather than addressing each domain individually.

Transferring Domains with Recent Changes or Resellers

Recent contact information updates can trigger security holds that prevent domain transfers. ICANN regulations impose 60-day transfer restrictions whenever significant WHOIS changes occur. This policy prevents attackers from changing contact details and immediately transferring domains to hide their theft. Plan contact updates carefully to avoid conflicts with your transfer timeline.

Domains registered through resellers often require additional coordination during transfers. The reseller acts as an intermediary between you and the actual registrar, which can complicate the authorization code retrieval process. Contact your reseller first to understand their transfer procedures and obtain necessary codes or approvals. Some resellers handle transfers directly, while others require you to work with the underlying registrar.

Expired domains present unique challenges that vary depending on how long they’ve been expired. Recently expired domains might be renewed and transferred normally, while longer-expired domains could enter redemption periods with higher costs and complex recovery procedures. Evaluate whether renewing with your current registrar before transferring might be more cost-effective than dealing with redemption fees.

Grace periods for expired domains provide limited windows for normal renewal and transfer procedures. Most registrars offer 30-day grace periods after expiration, during which domains can be renewed at standard rates. After this period, domains might enter redemption status with significantly higher recovery costs. Act quickly if you discover expired domains in your portfolio.

Registry-specific policies can affect transfer procedures for different domain extensions. Some country-code domains have restrictions on international transfers or require local presence for registration. Research these requirements before attempting bulk transfers that include diverse domain extensions. Group domains by extension type to handle different policy requirements efficiently.

Hosting Tap: Your Partner for Seamless Domain Transfers

At Hosting Tap, we understand that managing your online presence should be straightforward and stress-free. Our comprehensive platform combines affordable domain registration with reliable website hosting and professional email services, creating a unified environment that simplifies your domain management needs.

When you choose Hosting Tap for your domain transfer, you’re selecting more than just a new registrar – you’re partnering with a team that prioritizes your success. Our 24/7 customer support staff understands both local .nz domain requirements and international transfer procedures. This expertise means you receive accurate guidance tailored to your specific situation, whether you’re transferring a single .nz domain or managing a complex international portfolio.

Our streamlined transfer process minimizes downtime and eliminates common technical complications. We provide clear instructions for each step, from obtaining authorization codes to configuring DNS settings after your transfer completes. Our transparent pricing structure means no hidden fees or surprise charges – you’ll know exactly what your transfer costs before starting the process.

Hosting Tap’s integrated approach offers long-term benefits beyond the initial transfer. Once your domain is transferred, you can easily add website hosting, professional email accounts, or other services through the same interface. This consolidation simplifies billing, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures all your online services work together smoothly.

Our commitment to New Zealand businesses extends beyond just providing services. We understand local business needs, compliance requirements, and market conditions that affect your online success. This local expertise, combined with our technical capabilities, makes us the ideal choice for businesses looking to establish or enhance their online presence through reliable domain management.

Trust Hosting Tap to handle your domain transfer with the professionalism and attention to detail your business deserves. Our experience, competitive pricing, and dedicated support team work together to ensure your transition is smooth, successful, and sets the foundation for your future online growth.

Conclusion

Domain transfers represent a powerful tool for optimizing your online presence and reducing costs. Whether you’re managing .nz domains or international extensions, following proper procedures ensures a smooth transition between registrars. By preparing your domains correctly, obtaining valid authorization codes, and choosing a reputable provider like Hosting Tap, you can complete transfers efficiently while maintaining continuous service.

The key to successful domain transfers lies in careful planning and attention to detail. Document your current settings, update contact information, and test your configurations thoroughly. Monitor the process closely and address any issues promptly to prevent delays or service interruptions.

“Domain management is often overlooked, but it’s a critical part of your digital infrastructure. Choose your registrar as carefully as you would choose your web host or email provider.” – Rand Fishkin, Founder of Moz

Hosting Tap provides the expertise, tools, and support you need to make domain transfers simple and successful. Our integrated platform approach helps you consolidate your online services while reducing complexity and costs. Take the next step in optimizing your online presence by partnering with Hosting Tap for your domain management needs.

FAQs About Domain Transfers

Q1: What is the difference between an Auth Code, EPP Key, and UDAI?

These terms all refer to the same unique security code required for domain transfers. Auth Code serves as the general industry term, while EPP Key is commonly used for international domains like .com and .org. UDAI (Unique Domain Authentication Identifier) was the traditional term for .nz domains, though most registrars now use the standard Auth Code terminology. Regardless of the name, this code proves you own the domain and have authority to transfer it between registrars.

Q2: How long does a domain transfer typically take?

Transfer timeframes vary significantly between domain types and registrars. .nz domain transfers often complete immediately once all requirements are met, thanks to streamlined processes implemented by the Domain Name Commission. International domain transfers typically require 5-7 business days due to additional verification steps and ICANN regulations that allow losing registrars time to process transfer requests. Some registrars offer expedited processing for additional fees.

Q3: Will my website or email go down during a domain transfer?

Properly executed domain transfers should not cause downtime for your website or email services. The transfer only changes which company manages your domain registration – your hosting and email services remain separate. However, you must configure DNS settings correctly with your new registrar to maintain service continuity. Document your current DNS records before transferring and verify they’re properly configured afterward to prevent any service interruptions.

Q4: Can I transfer a domain that is about to expire?

Most registrars recommend renewing your domain with your current provider before initiating a transfer if it’s close to expiring. Many companies have policies preventing transfers within 7-21 days of expiration to avoid complications if the domain expires during the transfer process. Renewing first ensures you maintain control of the domain and can complete the transfer without time pressure. The renewal period will carry over to your new registrar, so you won’t lose any registration time.