Moving a domain from DreamHost to Squarespace involves several key steps to ensure a smooth transfer. Here's how to do it properly:

Before You Begin:

• Verify domain transfer requirements
• Check pricing and billing details
• Note that transfer includes one additional year of registration
• Ensure your custom email addresses are properly handled

Step-by-Step Transfer Process:

1. Access DreamHost Account

• Log in to DreamHost
• Navigate to Domains > Manage Domains

2. Prepare Your Domain

• Unlock the domain under the "Locked?" section
• Verify contact information in Whois Info
• Ensure email addresses are valid and accessible

3. Get Authorization Code

• Go to Domains > Transfer Domain
• Click "Or transfer out of DreamHost"
• Click "Reveal Authorization Code" or "Send Authorization Code"
• Save the code securely

4. Start Transfer in Squarespace

• Open Domains panel
• Click "Use a Domain You Own"
• Enter domain name
• Click "Transfer Domain"
• Enter authorization code

5. Complete Registration Details

• Verify contact information
• Update WHOIS records if needed
• Confirm email address is correct

6. Review and Complete Payment

• Confirm payment method
• Review transfer charges
• Accept terms and conditions
• Click "Confirm and Purchase"

7. Approve Transfer

• Check email from DreamHost
• Click approval link (auto-approves in 5 days if not clicked)

8. Monitor Transfer Status

• Check "Transfer Pending" status in Domains panel
• Resolve any error messages
• Wait for completion (up to 15 days)

Important Notes:

• Don't modify DNS settings during transfer
• Keep MX records if using custom email
• Wait to add Google Workspace until transfer completes
• Transfer confirmation email will come from [email protected]

After Transfer Completion:

• Set as primary domain if desired
• Enable SSL
• Add custom email through Google Workspace
• Review domain billing
• Cancel DreamHost account if no longer needed

If Transfer Fails:

• Check registration information
• Contact DreamHost support
• Consider connecting domain instead of transferring
• Delete failed transfer before retrying

The entire process typically takes 5-15 days to complete, depending on various factors and authorization speed.

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