How to Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Squarespace

Wonder how to move domain from Godaddy to Squarespace? Transferring a domain ensures you manage both your website and domain in one place, simplifying renewals, security, and settings. While the process may seem technical, it’s straightforward when broken into clear steps.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to prepare your GoDaddy domain for transfer.
• The steps to initiate and complete the transfer from GoDaddy to Squarespace.
• How to update DNS settings to avoid downtime.
• Common transfer issues and how to fix them.

Why Transfer GoDaddy Domain to Squarespace?

Keeping your domain and website on different platforms can be inconvenient. By transferring your domain to Squarespace, you streamline management and reduce technical complications.

Here’s why users transfer their domains:

• All-in-One Management: Handle your domain, hosting, and website settings in one place.
• Free SSL Certificate: Squarespace provides automatic SSL, enhancing website security.
• Faster Support: Get direct assistance from Squarespace without needing to contact multiple providers.

However, before proceeding, check if you use GoDaddy for email hosting. If so, you may need to adjust DNS settings after the transfer to keep your email working.

Preparing Your GoDaddy Domain for Transfer

Before you can transfer your domain, GoDaddy requires you to unlock it and retrieve an authorization code (EPP code). These steps ensure your domain is ready to be moved.

Step 1: Unlock Your Domain

GoDaddy domains are locked by default to prevent unauthorized transfers. To unlock yours:

1. Log in to your GoDaddy account.
2. Go to My Products and locate your domain.
3. Click Manage and look for the Domain Lock setting.
4. Disable the lock and confirm your changes.

Step 2: Obtain Your Authorization Code (EPP Code)

This code is required to verify ownership during the transfer process.

1. In GoDaddy, navigate to Domain Settings.
2. Scroll down to the Transfer Out section.
3. Click Get Authorization Code and save it securely.

Step 3: Disable Privacy Protection (Optional)

If you have WHOIS privacy enabled, Squarespace may have trouble verifying your domain ownership. While not always necessary, turning off privacy protection can help prevent delays.

How to Transfer a Domain from GoDaddy to Squarespace

Once your domain is unlocked and you have the authorization code, you can begin the transfer in Squarespace. Below are the detailed steps to transfer your GoDaddy domain to Squarespace successfully.

Step 1: Start the Transfer in Squarespace

1. Log in to your Squarespace account: Access your Squarespace account using your credentials. If you don’t have an account yet, you’ll need to sign up to begin the process.
2. Go to Settings > Domains: In the main menu, navigate to the "Settings" section and select the "Domains" option to manage your domain settings.
3. Click Use a Domain I Own and enter your domain name: Once in the domain section, click the "Use a Domain I Own" button. You will be prompted to enter the domain name that you wish to transfer. Ensure that the domain name is typed correctly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Enter the Authorization Code

After you’ve entered your domain name, Squarespace will prompt you to enter the authorization code (also known as the EPP code or transfer key). This code is provided by your current domain registrar (GoDaddy, in this case).

To obtain the code from GoDaddy, log in to your GoDaddy account, navigate to the domain management page, and unlock your domain. Request the authorization code from the domain settings. Once you receive the code via email or directly in the GoDaddy dashboard, paste it carefully into the provided field in Squarespace. Double-check that there are no extra spaces or errors in the code to ensure the transfer process runs smoothly.

Step 3: Confirm the Transfer

Squarespace will display all the details of the transfer process, including the domain renewal fees, transfer fees (if applicable), and any additional settings related to your domain's expiration or renewal dates.

Take your time to review the information carefully. Ensure that everything is accurate, including the renewal settings and the billing details. If you're satisfied with the transfer details, click the confirmation button to initiate the transfer process. This will trigger the domain transfer request from GoDaddy to Squarespace.

It may take up to several days for the domain transfer to complete. During this time, keep an eye on your email for any updates or additional actions required to finalize the transfer.

Managing DNS Settings After the Transfer

Once the transfer is initiated, DNS settings may need to be adjusted. This ensures your domain correctly connects to your Squarespace website.

Step 1: Verify Your Domain

After initiating the domain transfer, Squarespace will require verification to ensure that you are the rightful owner of the domain. Depending on the situation, you may be asked to verify the transfer via email or DNS records.

If email verification is required, Squarespace will send a message to the email address associated with your domain registration. This email will contain a verification link that you need to click in order to confirm the transfer.

In some cases, you may need to verify the domain via DNS settings. If prompted, Squarespace will provide specific instructions on how to update your DNS records to confirm ownership. This typically involves adding a TXT record or a specific verification code to your domain’s DNS settings. Once completed, DNS verification can take a few hours to propagate, but it will ensure that Squarespace can successfully link your domain to your account.

Step 2: Update DNS Settings (If Needed)

In some cases, you’ll need to adjust DNS records manually:

• A Records: Point to Squarespace’s IP addresses.
• CNAME Records: Ensure correct domain routing.
• MX Records: If you use custom email hosting, update MX records accordingly.

How Long Does a Domain Transfer Take?

Domain transfers typically take 3 to 7 days. However, some factors may speed up or slow down the process:

• GoDaddy’s release time: Transfers may be delayed if GoDaddy does not release the domain immediately.
• Verification speed: If additional verification is needed, responding quickly can shorten the process.
• DNS propagation: Once the transfer is complete, some users may see the new website before others.

What to Do After the Transfer

Once your domain is fully managed by Squarespace, complete these final steps:

• Enable Auto-Renewal: Prevent accidental domain expiration.
• Re-enable Privacy Protection: Keep your WHOIS information private.
• Test Website Performance: Ensure everything is loading correctly after the transfer.

Troubleshooting Common Transfer Issues

Issue: Incorrect authorization code

If you receive an error, double-check the EPP code you copied from GoDaddy. It must be entered exactly as provided.

Issue: Domain still locked

If the transfer is blocked, log in to GoDaddy and confirm that the domain is fully unlocked.

Issue: DNS propagation delays

After updating DNS settings, it may take up to 48 hours for changes to take effect. If your website isn’t loading, wait and check again later.

Issue: Email not working

If your email stops functioning, check your MX records. Ensure they point to the correct email provider.

Useful Links

Transferring a GoDaddy Domain to Squarespace – This official guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process on how to transfer domain name from Godaddy to Squarespace, ensuring a smooth transition.

Connecting a GoDaddy Domain to Your Squarespace Site – If you prefer to keep your domain registered with GoDaddy, this guide explains how to connect it to your Squarespace website using DNS settings.

Connecting a Third-Party Domain to Your Squarespace Site – This resource offers general instructions for linking domains from other registrars to your Squarespace site, applicable to GoDaddy and other providers.

Managing DNS Settings in Squarespace – After transferring or connecting your domain, this guide helps you manage DNS settings within Squarespace to ensure proper website functionality.

Understanding Domain Transfer Timelines – Learn about the expected timeframes for domain transfers and factors that can influence the duration of the process.

Your Squarespace Website Can Do Even Better!

Elfsight created dozens of useful plugins to make your website more attractive and boost its performance in so many ways. Try these no-code solutions for free on Squarespace!

Final Thoughts

Transferring a domain from GoDaddy to Squarespace is a simple process when following the right steps. Preparing your domain, handling DNS settings, and troubleshooting common issues will help ensure a smooth transition.

If you encounter any problems, Squarespace and GoDaddy both offer customer support to assist with the transfer process.