How a domain transfer works, step by step

A standard gTLD (.com/.net/.org and friends) transfer follows an ICANN-defined process:

1. Unlock the domain at your current registrar (remove the registrar lock / clientTransferProhibited).
2. Obtain the auth code (also called an EPP code, transfer key or authorisation code) from the losing registrar.
3. Start the transfer at Transcom by entering the domain and its auth code in the panel.
4. The gaining registrar (us) submits the request to the registry, which emails the registrant to confirm.
5. The losing registrar has up to 5 days to approve or decline; if they do nothing, the registry auto-approves after that window.
6. The domain moves to Transcom and appears in your account, usually with +1 year added to the term.

The whole thing typically completes in 5–7 days, though it can be faster if the losing registrar approves promptly. .uk works differently — see the article on transferring .uk domains.