How Can I Transfer my Domain Name and Website to Web Hosting Canada?

Switching to WHC means fast, reliable hosting backed by 24/7 expert support. We’ll even help move your website content for free. Want to do it yourself? Follow the steps below.

• 1. Transfer Your Domain Name to WHC
• Option 1: Domain Only
• Option 2: Domain + Hosting
• 2. Migrate Your Website to WHC
• Want to do it yourself?
• Advanced: Moving a WordPress Site with a Database
• Option 1: Use All-in-One WP Migration
• Option 2: Manual Transfer (for advanced users)

1. Transfer Your Domain Name to WHC

A domain transfer means moving your domain registration from your current provider to WHC. This lets you manage your domain and hosting in one place.

Option 1: Domain Only

• Visit our Domain Transfer page and enter your domain name. You can add up to 100 domains at a time if needed.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to start the transfer. You’ll receive a confirmation email to approve it.
• Transfers typically take up to 5 days.

Option 2: Domain + Hosting

• Start by choosing a Web Hosting plan. During checkout, select the option “I already have a domain.”
• After checkout, follow the email instructions to begin the domain transfer.
  
  

Before you start, check this with your current provider:

• Get the Transfer Key (EPP/Auth code)
• Make sure domain privacy is OFF (so you can receive the approval email)
• Turn off Transfer Lock
• Make sure the domain was registered or transferred over 60 days ago

Once the transfer is complete, you can update your DNS (nameservers) directly from your WHC Client Area. 

2. Migrate Your Website to WHC

Want to do it yourself? Here’s how:

1. Order your web hosting plan. During checkout, select the option “I already have a domain.”
2. Wait for our welcome email with your login and server details.
3. Upload your website files using FTP or another file manager. Use the Permanent Address we provide so you can upload files before pointing your domain — this avoids any downtime.
4. Place your files in the public_html folder.
5. Recreate your email addresses in cPanel if you had any with your old provider.
   
   

Advanced: Moving a WordPress Site with a Database

If your site runs on WordPress and uses a database, the transfer can be a bit more technical. You have two options:

Option 1: Use All-in-One WP Migration

All-in-One WP Migration is a popular and user-friendly plugin that lets you move your entire WordPress site—including files, themes, plugins, and database—without needing technical skills. It exports your site into a single file, which you can then import into your new WordPress installation. It also handles URL replacements and basic fixes automatically.

Option 2: Manual Transfer (for advanced users)

If you prefer to do it yourself:

1. Recreate your database in cPanel.
2. Export your database from your old host and import it into the new one using phpMyAdmin.
3. Update your site's configuration files (like wp-config.php) with your new database name, username, and password.
4. Test your site using the Permanent Address.
5. Update your domain’s DNS to point to WHC’s servers (see your welcome email).
6. Wait up to 24 hours for the DNS changes to fully propagate.
   
   

Need help? Our team is here 24/7 to guide you through the process or take care of it for you.