SOP 54: Registrar Transfer vs. Account Push — Moving the Domain

SOP 54: Registrar Transfer vs. Account Push — Moving the Domain

Two ways to take the domain. The wrong one strands you or locks the seller in your account.

— Use an account 'push' (same-registrar internal transfer) when buyer and seller use the same registrar (both on GoDaddy, both on Namecheap). It is instant, no 60-day lock, and the domain lands in your own account. Preferred when available.
— Use a full registrar transfer (auth/EPP code) when you are on different registrars or want the domain off the seller's registrar entirely. It takes 5–7 days and triggers a 60-day transfer lock afterward.
— Sequencing rule with escrow: domain control transfers BEFORE funds release. The escrow agent confirms you hold the domain, then pays the seller.
— Never accept: seller 'managing' the domain in their account on your behalf. You must hold the registrar login.

Pass criterion: domain in your own registrar account before money moves.

Save this — run it every deal.