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Help CenterDomain TransfersTroubleshooting Transfers
schedule7 min readLast updated: December 15, 2025

Troubleshooting Transfers

Domain transfers usually go smoothly, but occasionally issues can arise. This guide covers common transfer problems, their solutions, and when to contact support for assistance.

Common Transfer Issues

Here are the most frequent problems encountered during domain transfers and how to resolve them:

Wrong or Invalid Auth Code

If your registrar rejects the authorization code, try these solutions:

  • check_circleDouble-check for typos - auth codes are case-sensitive
  • check_circleCopy and paste the code instead of typing it manually
  • check_circleRemove any extra spaces before or after the code
  • check_circleVerify you're using the code for the correct domain
  • check_circleCheck if the code has expired (some expire after 7-14 days)
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If you've tried all of the above and the code still doesn't work, contact us for a new auth code. We'll generate and send a fresh one within 24 hours.

Domain is Locked

Domains must be unlocked before they can be transferred. If you're seeing a "domain locked" error:

  • check_circleContact Markforge support to verify the domain has been unlocked
  • check_circleSome registries require up to 24 hours for unlock to propagate
  • check_circleCheck the domain's WHOIS record for lock status
  • check_circleWait a few hours and try the transfer again

Transfer Approval Email Not Received

After initiating a transfer, you should receive an approval email. If you haven't received it:

  1. 1

    Check your spam/junk folder thoroughly

  2. 2

    Verify the email address in the domain's WHOIS record is correct and accessible

  3. 3

    Search for emails from your new registrar or the domain registry

  4. 4

    Contact your new registrar to resend the approval email

  5. 5

    Some registrars allow approval through their dashboard instead of email

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Transfer approval emails typically expire within 5-7 days. If you miss the window, you may need to initiate a new transfer request.

Transfer Rejected or Failed

If your transfer is rejected, common causes include:

  • check_circleDomain was registered or transferred within the last 60 days (ICANN lock period)
  • check_circleDomain is within 60 days of expiration
  • check_circlePending legal dispute or UDRP action on the domain
  • check_circleAdministrative contact denied the transfer
  • check_circlePayment issue with your new registrar

Transfer Taking Too Long

While transfers typically complete within 5-10 days, delays can occur:

  • check_circleCheck if you've approved all required transfer confirmation emails
  • check_circleContact your new registrar to check the transfer status
  • check_circleSome registries (especially country-code TLDs) have longer processing times
  • check_circleVerify there are no pending actions required on your part

Website or Email Down During Transfer

Your website and email should continue working during the transfer, but if you experience issues:

  • check_circleAvoid changing DNS settings or nameservers during the transfer
  • check_circleThe transfer process doesn't change DNS - your site should remain live
  • check_circleIf your site goes down, it's likely unrelated to the transfer
  • check_circleContact your hosting provider if website issues persist

When to Contact Support

Contact Markforge support if you experience any of these issues:

  • check_circleAuth code not received within 24 hours of purchase
  • check_circleAuth code confirmed as invalid after careful verification
  • check_circleDomain shows as locked despite our confirmation it's unlocked
  • check_circleTransfer has been pending for more than 14 days with no progress
  • check_circleYou received an error message you don't understand

Our Transfer Guarantee

Markforge stands behind every domain sale. If we cannot complete the transfer of your purchased domain for any reason, you will receive a full refund. Your satisfaction and successful domain ownership is our priority.

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Full refund applies when Markforge is unable to complete the transfer. Issues caused by the buyer (such as not responding to approval emails) may not qualify for an automatic refund.

Get Help Now

If you're experiencing transfer issues, our support team is ready to help. Contact us via live chat, our contact form, or email at support@markforge.xyz.

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Troubleshooting Transfers | Markforge Help Center | Markforge