Transferring a domain between registrars while using two different Cloudflare accounts and name servers adds a few additional steps to the typical domain transfer process. Here’s how to do it:
1. Preparation
- Eligibility Check:
- Ensure your domain is eligible for transfer (at least 60 days old, no recent transfers).
- Unlock the Domain:
- Unlock your domain through the current registrar’s dashboard.
- Update Contact Information:
- Make sure your WHOIS contact details are up-to-date.
- Disable WHOIS Privacy Protection (if needed):
- Some registrars require this before the transfer.
2. Verify Current Cloudflare Configuration
- Check DNS Records on the Current Cloudflare Account:
- Ensure that all DNS records are accurate in the current Cloudflare account.
- Take Note of the Current Cloudflare Name Servers:
- Record the current Cloudflare name servers associated with the domain.
3. Prepare the New Cloudflare Account
- Set Up the Domain on the New Cloudflare Account:
- Add the domain to the new Cloudflare account. Cloudflare will provide new name servers.
- Copy DNS Records:
- Manually copy all DNS records from the current Cloudflare account to the new one. Ensure there are no discrepancies.
4. Initiate the Transfer
- Get the EPP/Auth Code:
- Obtain the EPP/Auth code from your current registrar.
- Start the Transfer with the New Registrar:
- Initiate the transfer process at the new registrar and provide the EPP/Auth code.
5. Switch Cloudflare Name Servers
- Change Name Servers to the New Cloudflare Account:
- At your current registrar, change the name servers to those provided by the new Cloudflare account.
- This will direct traffic to the new Cloudflare account without affecting the live site, as the DNS records should match the old setup.
6. Complete the Transfer
- Approve the Transfer:
- Approve any transfer requests from the current registrar to speed up the process.
- Wait for Transfer Completion:
- The transfer might take a few hours to several days.
7. Post-Transfer Steps
- Verify Domain Settings:
- Once the transfer is complete, verify that the domain settings are correct at the new registrar.
- Double-Check DNS on the New Cloudflare Account:
- Ensure that DNS records are accurate and that the site is resolving correctly.
- Re-enable WHOIS Privacy Protection:
- Re-enable privacy protection if needed.
- Monitor Site Performance:
- Keep an eye on the site to ensure that everything is working smoothly post-transfer.
By carefully coordinating the DNS settings between the old and new Cloudflare accounts, you can transfer the domain with minimal downtime or disruption to your live sites.
