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How to Transfer a GoDaddy Domain to Google: A Definitive Guide

Transferring a domain name might seem like a daunting task, shrouded in technical jargon and potential pitfalls. However, moving your domain from GoDaddy to Google Domains is a manageable process if you follow the right steps. In essence, to transfer a GoDaddy domain to Google, you need to unlock your domain at GoDaddy, obtain an authorization code (EPP code), initiate the transfer at Google Domains, and approve the transfer both at Google Domains and GoDaddy. This guide will provide a detailed walkthrough of each step, ensuring a smooth and successful transition.

The Transfer Process: Step-by-Step

The process might seem complex, but breaking it down into manageable steps helps significantly. Think of it as moving houses – careful planning and execution are key to a seamless relocation.

1. Prepare Your Domain at GoDaddy

Before initiating the transfer, you must prepare your domain at GoDaddy. This involves two crucial steps: unlocking your domain and obtaining the authorization code.

Unlock Your Domain: GoDaddy, like most registrars, locks domains to prevent unauthorized transfers. You need to disable this lock. Log into your GoDaddy account, navigate to your Domain Control Center, select the domain you wish to transfer, and locate the Domain Lock setting. Ensure it’s switched OFF.
Request Your Authorization Code (EPP Code): The authorization code, also known as an EPP code, is a unique password for your domain. It’s essential for initiating the transfer. In your GoDaddy Domain Control Center, find the option to “Get Authorization Code” (it might be labelled as “Transfer Out”). GoDaddy will typically email you the code within a few minutes. Keep this code safe and accessible, as you’ll need it shortly.

2. Initiate the Transfer at Google Domains

Now that your domain is prepared at GoDaddy, you can start the transfer process at Google Domains.

Access Google Domains: Log into your Google account and navigate to Google Domains (domains.google.com). If you don’t have a Google Domains account, you’ll need to create one.
Start the Transfer: Click on the “Transfer” option on the Google Domains homepage.
Enter Your Domain Name: Type the domain name you wish to transfer into the provided field and click “Continue”. Google Domains will verify if the domain is eligible for transfer.
Enter the Authorization Code: You will be prompted to enter the authorization code (EPP code) you obtained from GoDaddy. Type it in carefully, ensuring there are no typos. This code acts as a key to unlocking the domain for transfer.

3. Configure DNS and Contact Information at Google Domains

Google Domains will guide you through setting up your DNS and contact information. This is crucial for ensuring your website and email services continue to function correctly after the transfer.

DNS Settings: Choose how you want to handle your DNS. You have several options:
- Use Google Domains Name Servers: This is often the easiest option, as Google Domains provides reliable DNS hosting.
- Use Existing Name Servers: If you’re using a third-party DNS provider (like Cloudflare), you can keep using those name servers. Make sure the DNS records are properly configured before transferring.
- Import DNS Settings (if available): Some registrars allow you to import your existing DNS settings.
Contact Information: Review and update your contact information (registrant, administrative, technical, and billing). You can choose to keep your information public or opt for private registration. Google Domains offers free private registration, which helps protect your personal information from being publicly accessible in the WHOIS database.

4. Payment and Confirmation

Review your transfer details, including the renewal price (if applicable), and proceed to payment. Google Domains typically accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and Google Pay.

Complete the Purchase: Once you’ve reviewed the details and entered your payment information, click “Buy” or “Transfer” to finalize the purchase.
Transfer Initiation: Google Domains will then initiate the transfer process with GoDaddy.

5. Approve the Transfer at GoDaddy (and Google Domains)

The final step involves approving the transfer request both at Google Domains and, importantly, at GoDaddy. This is where many transfers get delayed or fail, so pay close attention.

Check Your Email: Monitor your email inbox (the one associated with your GoDaddy account) for an email from GoDaddy regarding the transfer request. This email will contain instructions on how to approve the transfer.
Approve the Transfer: Crucially, explicitly approve the transfer request within GoDaddy’s system. GoDaddy often tries to retain your business by making the approval process slightly less obvious. Look for a clear “Approve Transfer” button or link within your GoDaddy account. Approving the transfer at GoDaddy significantly speeds up the process. If you don’t manually approve, the transfer will eventually happen automatically after a waiting period (usually 5-7 days), but manual approval is highly recommended.
Monitor Progress at Google Domains: You can track the transfer progress in your Google Domains dashboard. The status will update as the transfer moves through the various stages.

6. Completion

Once the transfer is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email from Google Domains. Your domain is now managed through Google Domains. Double-check your DNS settings to ensure everything is working as expected. Congratulations, you’ve successfully transferred your domain!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to common questions about transferring a GoDaddy domain to Google Domains.

1. How long does a domain transfer from GoDaddy to Google Domains take?

The transfer process typically takes 5 to 7 days to complete. However, if you manually approve the transfer at GoDaddy, the process can be significantly accelerated, potentially completing within 24 to 48 hours.

2. How much does it cost to transfer a domain from GoDaddy to Google Domains?

Google Domains doesn’t charge a fee to transfer a domain. However, you’ll likely need to renew the domain for another year as part of the transfer process. The cost of renewal depends on the domain extension (e.g., .com, .net, .org).

3. What happens to my email service during the domain transfer?

Your email service may experience downtime during the transfer. To minimize disruption, ensure your DNS records are correctly configured at Google Domains before the transfer completes. Consider using Google Workspace or another email hosting provider for uninterrupted service.

4. Can I transfer my domain if it’s newly registered?

Most registrars, including GoDaddy, have a 60-day lock on newly registered domains to prevent fraud. You cannot transfer a domain within the first 60 days of registration.

5. What if I don’t receive the authorization code from GoDaddy?

Check your spam or junk folder. If you still don’t see it, contact GoDaddy’s support team to request the authorization code again. Ensure the email address associated with your domain is correct.

6. What if my domain transfer fails?

Domain transfers can fail for various reasons, such as incorrect authorization code, domain lock still enabled, or issues with your contact information. Check the error message provided by Google Domains and address the identified issue. Contact Google Domains support for assistance.

7. Will my website go down during the transfer?

Potentially, yes. To minimize downtime, ensure your DNS records are correctly configured at Google Domains before the transfer completes. Once the transfer is complete, it takes time for the DNS changes to propagate across the internet (DNS propagation).

8. How do I ensure a smooth DNS transition?

Set up your DNS records at Google Domains before initiating the transfer. This includes records like A records, CNAME records, MX records (for email), and TXT records. Compare your DNS records at GoDaddy with those at Google Domains to ensure consistency.

9. What are the benefits of transferring to Google Domains?

Google Domains offers several advantages, including free private registration, a clean and intuitive interface, integration with other Google services (like Google Workspace), and reliable DNS infrastructure.

10. Can I transfer multiple domains at once?

Yes, Google Domains allows you to transfer multiple domains simultaneously. You’ll need to repeat the transfer initiation process for each domain, entering the corresponding authorization code for each.

11. What if I’m using GoDaddy’s website builder?

Transferring your domain to Google Domains will not automatically move your website. You’ll need to migrate your website content separately. Consider exporting your website content from GoDaddy’s website builder and importing it into a different platform, such as Google Sites or another website hosting provider.

12. Is it possible to cancel a domain transfer?

In many cases, yes, you can cancel a domain transfer before it completes. The process for cancellation depends on which stage the transfer is in. Check your Google Domains dashboard and your GoDaddy account for cancellation options. Once the transfer is complete, you cannot cancel it.