An incoming domain transfer can fail for several reasons, most of which trace back to the domain's status at the losing registrar or an incorrect authorization (auth/EPP) code. This article explains the common causes and how to obtain and use the auth code to complete a transfer.
How transfers and auth codes work
To transfer a domain into Enom, the domain must be unlocked at the current (losing) registrar and you must supply the correct authorization code — also called the auth code or EPP key. This code proves you are authorized to move the domain. If the domain is locked, the code is wrong, or the WHOIS contact details are out of date, the transfer can be rejected or auto-cancelled.
Common transfer failure reasons
| Issue | Cause | Fix |
| Invalid auth (EPP) code | The authorization code entered does not match the one on file at the losing registrar. | Contact the current registrar, ask them to resync and resend the auth code, then submit a new transfer order with the correct code. |
| Domain is locked | The domain is in a registrar lock status (for example, REGISTRAR-LOCK), which blocks transfers. | Unlock the domain at the current registrar before submitting the transfer. |
| 60-day transfer lock | A recent registrant contact change (or recent registration/transfer) on a gTLD applied a 60-day transfer lock. | Wait for the lock to expire. In some cases Enom Support can remove a lock applied within the last five days via a verified support request. |
| Outdated WHOIS / unanswered verification | The registrant contact details are wrong, or the transfer verification email was not answered. | Correct the WHOIS details at the losing registrar, submit a new transfer order, and respond to all verification emails. |
| WHOIS queries blocked | The losing registrar blocked WHOIS lookups for an extended period, causing the request to auto-cancel. | Submit a new transfer request once WHOIS is accessible. |
Some TLDs do not require an auth code, while others require it for every transfer. Check the requirements for the specific TLD before you start.
Step: Obtain and enter the auth (EPP) code
- At the current registrar, unlock the domain and request the authorization (auth/EPP) code.
- Confirm the domain's WHOIS contact email is current, since transfer verification emails are sent there.
- In your Enom control panel, start the incoming transfer and enter the auth code exactly as provided.
- Submit the transfer and respond to any verification emails to authorize it.
Auth codes are case-sensitive and can include special characters. Copy and paste the code rather than typing it to avoid errors that cause the transfer to fail.
Next steps
Questions? Contact Enom Support.
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