GoDaddy Domain Transfer: A Complete Guide to Moving Your Domain to Bluehost

Key highlights

• Important steps to prepare for your GoDaddy domain transfer include unlocking the domain, turning off privacy and getting the EPP code. 

• If you face issues with delays in your domain transfer, wrong EPP codes or other problems, you can get help from Bluehost’s support. 

• Bluehost makes your domain safer by offering free SSL, domain privacy and better hosting choices. 

• After the transfer, find out about the timeline, confirmation emails and how to see the status of your domain transfer from GoDaddy.

Introduction

You have been managing your domain with GoDaddy, but now you want more reliable hosting experience, better support or an all-in-one solution. Maybe you are launching a new website, upgrading your business or simply looking for a seamless domain-hosting integration—that’s where Bluehost comes in. 

GoDaddy domain transfer to Bluehost is easier than you think. With a streamlined process, expert assistance and minimal downtime, Bluehost ensures your transition is smooth and hassle-free. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to make it happen. Let’s dive in!

Key benefits of transferring your domain to Bluehost

Now that you’re considering transferring the domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost, let’s explore why this GoDaddy domain transfer is a smart decision. Beyond just changing domain registrars, transferring to Bluehost comes with several advantages that enhance website management, security and overall performance.

Seamless integration with Bluehost hosting

When your domain and hosting are managed in the same place, everything becomes easier. With Bluehost, you get: 

• One unified dashboard to handle DNS settings, renewals and website configurations. 

• Faster website setup with automatic domain linking to your hosting. 

• Optimized performance with Bluehost’s hosting infrastructure ensuring speed and reliability. 

This integration eliminates the need to switch between different platforms, making website management much more streamlined and efficient.

24/7 expert support for hassle-free migration

Domain transfers may seem complex, but Bluehost simplifies the process with 24/7 expert support. Whether you have questions about domain unlocking, EPP codes or DNS settings, our support team is available via live chat, phone or email to guide you through each step.

Free SSL & enhanced security features

Transferring your domain to Bluehost also means stronger security for your website. Every domain transfer includes: 

• A free SSL certificate to encrypt data and improve security. 

• Domain privacy protection (available for select domains) to hide personal information from public WHOIS records. 

• Malware protection and site monitoring to safeguard your website against threats. 

With these features, Bluehost ensures your site remains secure, professional and trusted by visitors. 

A domain transfer isn’t just about switching providers—it’s about enhancing your website’s security, simplifying management and ensuring smooth performance. With Bluehost’s free transfers, expert support and security benefits, you can migrate with confidence. Next, let’s dive into the pre-transfer check list of GoDaddy domain transfer.

Pre-transfer checklist: preparing your GoDaddy domain

Before you begin the GoDaddy domain transfer, there are a few important steps to ensure a smooth process. Preparing your domain correctly will help avoid delays and make transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost quick and hassle-free. Follow this checklist to get everything ready.

Step 1: Unlock your domain in GoDaddy

By default, GoDaddy locks domains to prevent unauthorized transfers. You’ll need to unlock it before moving your domain to Bluehost. 

How to unlock your domain in GoDaddy: 

1. Log in to your GoDaddy Account. 

2. Navigate to Domain Settings for the domain you want to transfer. 

3. Scroll down to the Domain Lock section. 

4. Click Edit, then toggle the lock setting to Off. 

5. Save your changes. 

Once your domain is unlocked, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Disable domain privacy (If enabled)

If you have GoDaddy’s domain privacy protection enabled, it hides your contact details from public WHOIS records. While this is great for security, it can interfere with the transfer domain away from GoDaddy process. 

How to disable domain privacy in GoDaddy: 

1. Go to Domain Settings for the domain you’re transferring. 

2. Look for the Privacy Protection section. 

3. Click Turn Off Privacy Protection and confirm the change. 

This ensures Bluehost can verify domain ownership and complete the transfer. 

Step 3: Obtain your authorization code (EPP Code)

The Authorization Code (EPP Code) is a unique key that confirms you own the domain and grants permission to transfer it. Without this code, the transfer domain from GoDaddy process cannot be completed. 

How to get your EPP code from GoDaddy: 

1. In your GoDaddy Account, go to Domain Settings. 

2. Scroll down to the Transfer Out section. 

3. Click Get Authorization Code (sometimes labeled as Get EPP Code). 

4. GoDaddy will email you the code—keep it safe as you’ll need it for the next steps. 

Once you’ve unlocked your domain, disabled privacy protection and obtained your EPP code, you are ready to initiate the transfer.

How to transfer your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost: A step-by-step guide

Now that you’ve completed the pre-transfer checklist, it’s time to start the domain transfer process. We make it simple to transfer your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost with just a few steps. Follow this guide to ensure a smooth and hassle-free transition.

Step 1: Log in to your Bluehost account

To begin, log in to your Bluehost account where you’ll initiate the transfer process. If you don’t have a Bluehost account yet, you’ll need to sign up for one first. 

1. Visit Bluehost.com and click Login at the top right. 

2. Enter your credentials and sign in to your account.

3. Once logged in, head to the Domains section in the Bluehost dashboard.

Also read: Why Do I Need Domain Name?

Step 2: Navigate to the domain transfer tool

Bluehost provides an easy-to-use Domain Transfer Tool to simplify the process. 

1. In your Bluehost Dashboard, locate the Domains tab.

2. Click on Transfer a Domain to Bluehost.

3. This tool will guide you through each step of the transfer domain away from GoDaddy process.

Step 3: Enter your domain name and EPP code

Now, you’ll need to provide the details of the domain you’re transferring from GoDaddy to Bluehost. 

1. Enter the domain name (without “www”) in the transfer tool.

2. Click Continue to proceed. 

Also read: Free domain name with Bluehost 

Step 4: Complete the payment and wait for the GoDaddy domain transfer to process

Some domain transfers may require a one-time transfer fee (varies based on domain extensions). If applicable, you’ll need to complete the payment before the transfer is processed.

1. Follow the on-screen instructions to submit payment (if required).

2. Once payment is complete, Bluehost will initiate the domain transfer. 

3. Domain transfers usually take 5-7 days, but you can check the status in your Bluehost Dashboard under Domains.

Step 5: Verify domain ownership and confirm transfer

Before the transfer can begin, Bluehost will verify that you own the domain. You’ll need to confirm your domain ownership by approving the transfer request. 

1. Check your registered email inbox (associated with your domain). 

2. Look for an email from Bluehost with transfer confirmation instructions. 

3. Click the verification link to approve the transfer. 

Pro tip: If you don’t see the email, check your spam or promotions folder. 

After the transfer is complete, your domain will now be fully managed within Bluehost. You can set up DNS records, renew your domain and integrate it with Bluehost hosting seamlessly. 

With your GoDaddy domain transfer successfully completed, your website is now backed by Bluehost’s powerful hosting infrastructure, security features and expert support. 

Also read: How to keep your domain information private

What to expect after initiating the transfer

Once you’ve started your GoDaddy domain transfer, the process isn’t instant—it takes a few days to complete. During this time, you’ll receive important confirmation emails and you can track the progress within your Bluehost account. Here’s what you should expect after submitting your transfer request.

Typical transfer time: 5-7 days

A domain transfer from GoDaddy to Bluehost usually takes anywhere between 5 to 7 days to complete. This delay is due to ICANN (the governing body for domain names) regulations, which require time for verification and approval. 

Quick tip: If you need to speed up the process, GoDaddy allows you to manually approve the transfer from your account—this can sometimes reduce the wait time.

Confirmation emails from Bluehost & GoDaddy

Once you initiate the migration, you’ll receive a few emails to confirm and approve the move. 

1. Email from Bluehost: This email will confirm that your transfer request has been received and is being processed. If there are any issues, such as an incorrect EPP code, you’ll be notified here. 

2. Email from GoDaddy: Since you’re transferring a domain away from GoDaddy, they will send you a final email asking you to confirm the transfer. You may have the option to approve it immediately rather than waiting for the full transfer period. 

What you need to do: 

• Open the email from GoDaddy and approve the transfer to speed up the process. 

• If you don’t approve manually, the transfer will still go through but may take the full 5-7 days.

How to check the transfer status

You can monitor the progress of your GoDaddy domain transfer directly in your Bluehost dashboard. 

Steps to check your transfer status: 

1. Log in to your Bluehost account. 

2. Go to the Domains section. 

3. Click on Transfer to see the status of your pending domain transfer. 

You may see one of the following statuses: 

Pending approval – The transfer request has been sent, waiting for GoDaddy approval. 

Processing – The transfer is in progress and being handled by Bluehost. 

Completed – Your domain has been successfully transferred to Bluehost!

Common issues & how Bluehost support can help

While transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost is usually smooth, occasional issues can arise. Whether it’s a domain transfer delay, an incorrect EPP code or other verification issues, Bluehost provides 24/7 expert support to help you resolve problems quickly. Below are some common challenges you might face during your GoDaddy domain transfer and how to fix them.

Domain transfer delays & troubleshooting

A domain transfer from GoDaddy typically takes 5-7 days, but certain factors can cause delays. 

Possible reasons for delays: 

• The domain is locked in GoDaddy (Ensure you’ve unlocked it before transferring). 

• The EPP Code is incorrect (Check and re-enter the correct code). 

• Privacy protection is still enabled (Disable privacy settings before initiating the transfer). 

• The domain is newly registered (ICANN rules prevent transfers within the first 60 days of registration or recent transfer). 

• Manual approval hasn’t been given (Approve the transfer via the GoDaddy confirmation email to speed up the process). 

How Bluehost can help: 

• Bluehost’s support team can check the transfer status and provide guidance if your domain seems stuck. 

• They can assist in restarting a failed transfer if needed. 

• If your transfer exceeds 7 days, we can contact the registrar on your behalf.

What to do if the EPP code is incorrect

Your EPP (Authorization) Code is essential for transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost. If you enter an incorrect code, the transfer request will fail. 

How to fix it: 

1. Log in to your GoDaddy account. 

2. Request a new EPP Code under “Transfer Out” settings. 

3. Copy the new code carefully and paste it into the Bluehost transfer tool. 

Tip: Some EPP codes may include spaces or special characters—copying them exactly as given is crucial. 

How Bluehost can help: 

• If the transfer fails due to an incorrect EPP code, Bluehost will notify you so you can re-enter it. 

• If issues persist, Bluehost’s live chat or phone support can guide you through obtaining the correct code from GoDaddy.

Bluehost’s support options for a smooth transfer 

Transferring your domain should be stress-free and Bluehost ensures that with 24/7 expert support. Whether you need troubleshooting help or real-time assistance, here’s how Bluehost can assist you: 

• Live chat support: Available 24/7 for immediate guidance. 

• Phone support: Speak directly with our expert for step-by-step assistance. 

• Support tickets: If your issue requires deeper investigation, submit a support request. 

• Help center & knowledge base: Access detailed articles and troubleshooting guides.

Final thoughts

Transferring your domain from GoDaddy to Bluehost is a smart move if you’re looking for a simpler, more secure and fully integrated hosting experience. With just a few steps, you can smoothly transition your domain to Bluehost without any downtime or complications. 

But the GoDaddy domain transfer is just the beginning. Once your domain is with Bluehost, you’ll benefit from our reliable hosting platform, free SSL for security and expert support available 24/7. Whether you’re launching a new website or improving an existing one, we make managing your domain and hosting effortless. 

 So why wait? Start your GoDaddy domain transfer today and experience Bluehost’s trusted hosting solutions with free SSL, 24/7 support and seamless website management.

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