How to Transfer Domain Name from Wix to Shopify: 8 Key Steps

Transferring a website to a stronger eCommerce platform often begins with moving the domain. For businesses shifting from Wix, learning how to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify ensures a smooth transition without disruptions. This process involves careful preparation, updating DNS records, and completing a step-by-step transfer. It also requires awareness of common pitfalls that could delay the switch. Discover the essential steps in this guide and start the transfer with confidence today.

Why Transfer Your Domain Name from Wix to Shopify?

A strong foundation matters when building an online store. That’s why choosing to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify often becomes a smart move. With Shopify’s architecture built for eCommerce, the transition unlocks more power, flexibility, and performance.

Below are compelling reasons to transfer domain from Wix to Shopify:

• Better eCommerce tools: Shopify is purpose-built for online selling. Features like inventory management, abandoned cart recovery, and multiple sales channels deliver more than what Wix provides.

• Scalability & performance: Shopify can handle traffic spikes and large product catalogs without slowing down. This growth-ready platform supports your store as it expands.

• Robust app ecosystem: With thousands of apps at hand, functionality like SEO optimization, logistics automation, marketing campaigns, and payment tools can be added with ease.

• Stronger SEO foundation: Clean code, mobile responsiveness, built-in redirects, and structured URLs help retain and improve search rankings during a migration.

• Focused support & resources: Shopify’s knowledge base, tutorials, and a community of experts specialize in store migrations and provide enterprise-level assistance.

Preparations Before You Transfer

A successful migration begins with careful preparation. Before starting to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify, merchants should review these key steps to ensure a smooth process.

Go over all the necessary requirements and factors to consider

A successful transfer requires specific conditions to be met. Some domains have restrictions that must be addressed first.

To transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify, successfully, take time to review the following points:

• Domain unlocked: Ensure the domain is not locked in Wix. A locked domain cannot be transferred.

• Correct contact information: Verify the domain owner’s details, including email, are accurate. This ensures authorization emails reach the right inbox.

• Authorization code (EPP code): Request the transfer code from Wix. Shopify requires this to begin the process.

• Renewal timeline: Do not start a transfer within 60 days of registering or renewing a domain, as many registrars block moves during this period.

• Email setup: If the business email is tied to the domain, prepare a backup plan so communication is not interrupted.

Being thorough with these requirements helps avoid transfer failures.

Check the transfer policies of your domain provider

Every registrar has different rules. Reviewing these policies before trying to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify reduces rejection risks and clarifies costs.

• Some providers enforce a minimum time before transfers are allowed.

• Certain registrars may charge additional fees for outbound transfers.

• Domains can only be moved if they are more than 60 days old.

• Privacy protection services, such as WHOIS guard, may need to be disabled before migration.

Studying the provider’s policies reduces the chance of a rejected request. It also helps estimate the cost and timeline needed for completion.

Confirm whether your domain is eligible to be moved to Shopify

Not all domains can be transferred directly. Verify eligibility in Shopify admin before beginning the transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify process. Only apex domains, such as jackclothing.com, qualify. Country-specific domains like .ca or .co.uk must remain with third-party providers. Subdomains will need to be reconfigured once the move is complete.

Follow these steps to check if a domain is transferable:

1. In the Shopify admin, open Settings > Domains.

2. If no other domains are added, select Connect existing domain, then click Transfer it to Shopify. If other domains exist, click Transfer domain.

3. Under Transfer an existing domain, type the domain name without the “www.” prefix.

4. Select Next.

5. Review the result:

• If transferable, proceed with the steps provided by Shopify to finish the transfer.

• If not transferable, connect the domain to Shopify using a third-party service.

Transfer Domain Name from Wix to Shopify: Step-by-Step Process

After reviewing requirements and policies, the next stage is executing the actual transfer. The process may look technical at first, but following each step carefully will make it straightforward.

Follow the guide below to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify without disrupting store operations:

Step 1: Sign in to your Wix account

Begin by logging into the Wix dashboard. Open a new browser tab and enter your Wix account credentials.

• Go to Account Settings > Domain.

• Select your domain and click Manage DNS Records.

Step 2: Modify the A records

• Delete existing A (Host) records. Save a copy first if used for other services.

• Select Add Record to create a new entry.

• Leave the Host Name field blank or type “@” (depending on the registrar).

• In the Value field, enter: 23.227.38.65.

• Set TTL (Time to Live) to 1 hour or leave it as the default if already 1 hour.

• Click Save to confirm changes.

Step 3: Adjust the CNAME records

• In the CNAME (Aliases) section, click Edit.

• In Host Name, type: www.

• In Value (Points to), enter: shops.myshopify.com.

• Click Save.

Step 4: Set up your Shopify account

Before a transfer, the new Shopify store must be ready. Go to Shopify.com and create an account.

• A free 3-day trial is available, but payment details are required to start selling.

• Choose a store name and finish the basic setup.

• Keep the Shopify admin open for linking the domain later.

Having the store ready before the transfer avoids downtime.

Step 5: Link your domain to Shopify

• In Shopify, go to Settings > Domains.

• Select Connect Existing Domain. If hidden, click Actions > Connect Existing Domain.

• Enter the domain name.

• Follow the setup guide provided. This may include adjusting DNS or CNAME records depending on the provider.

• After adjustments, return to Shopify and click Verify Connection.

The verification can take up to 48 hours. If issues persist beyond this window, double-check DNS entries or contact the registrar.

Step 6: Get your domain ready for transfer

Domains must be unlocked before transfer. An authorization code, also called an EPP code, is required.

Here are the steps:

• Log into your domain registrar account.

• Confirm that the email address tied to the domain is active and correct. Avoid using an email linked to the domain itself.

• Save existing DNS records in case they are needed later.

• Unlock the domain. Confirmation may be sent via email.

• Request the authorization code by choosing Transfer this domain or Transfer out.

Step 7: Transfer your domain to Shopify

Once the domain is unlocked and the code received, start the transfer in Shopify.

1. In Shopify admin, open Settings > Domains.

2. If connecting for the first time, choose Connect existing domain > Transfer it to Shopify.

3. If other domains are connected, select Transfer domain.

4. On the transfer page, enter the domain name without “www.”

5. Click Next.

6. Enter the authorization code.

7. Select Verify domain.

8. On the Approve charge page, confirm details:

• Domain to be registered

• Renewal preference (check Auto-renew every year if desired)

• Contact details for the store

• ICANN and Domain Registration Agreement

9. Review the Charge summary and click Approve.

10. Check your email for a transfer approval request. Approve it to continue.

The process can take up to 20 days. Once finished, Shopify sends a confirmation email. Domain management then moves to Shopify’s Domains page.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Check spam folders if the transfer email is missing.

• If the process fails, Shopify refunds the 1-year renewal fee.

• Contact Shopify Support for further help if issues remain.

Step 9: Update your data consent and preferences (Optional)

After the domain is successfully transferred, an email will arrive from Tucows Inc., Shopify’s domain partner. The subject line will be “Control how your data is shared.”

• Use the link in the email to adjust Data Use Consent Settings.

• Giving consent is optional and can be changed later.

• Review preferences regularly to ensure they align with business needs.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even when following the steps, issues can occur. Recognizing these helps ensure the transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify is completed successfully.

Pitfall 1: DNS misconfiguration

Many domain transfer issues stem from incorrect A or CNAME records. Visitors might end up at the wrong site or see an error.

→ How to avoid: Always set the A record to Shopify’s IP (for example, 23.227.38.65) and the CNAME to shops.myshopify.com.. Double-check for typos and extra records when attempting to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify.

Pitfall 2: Domain locked or within 60-day restriction

Some registrars lock domains immediately after registration or a recent transfer, making further transfer impossible.

→ How to avoid: Confirm the domain is unlocked and has been registered for at least 60 days before starting the transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify.

Pitfall 3: SSL / certificate issues

During the transfer, SSL status may show “pending” or the site may show security warnings until propagation completes.

→ How to avoid: Wait up to 48 hours for DNS to propagate and SSL certificates to issue. Ensure CAA records allow Shopify’s certificate authorities.

Pitfall 4: Domain hijacking risks

Unauthorized domain transfers or hijacks can occur if login credentials are compromised.

→ How to avoid: Use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication at your domain provider, and restrict transfer settings until ready.

FAQs about Transfer Domain Name from Wix to Shopify

Can I transfer a Wix domain if purchased less than 60 days ago?

No. ICANN rules require a 60-day waiting period after domain registration or major changes before you can transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify.

How long does the domain transfer take?

The full transfer process can take up to 20 days. During that time, the website should still remain active and reachable.

Can I still use Wix for hosting and connect domain to Shopify instead?

Yes. The domain can remain with Wix while DNS records are updated to point to Shopify. This method avoids full domain transfer but also means domain settings stay managed in Wix.

Does Shopify handle email hosting when transferring domain?

No. Shopify does not provide traditional email hosting. However, Shopify allows unlimited email forwarding, and third-party email services can be used after you transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify.

Is my SEO ranking at risk when transferring?

A properly handled domain transfer should not badly impact SEO. Use permanent redirects (301s) and preserve URL structure where possible to maintain rankings.

Can I keep my old design when switching to Shopify?

Not exactly. Shopify’s theme system differs from Wix’s design tools when you transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify. Content can be migrated, and the look can be recreated or adapted.

The Bottom Line

Transferring a domain is more than a technical task—it is a crucial step in building a strong online store. Learning how to transfer domain name from Wix to Shopify the right way helps secure a smoother shift with minimal downtime. By preparing properly and following each step, businesses can avoid costly mistakes.

Shopify offers better scalability, SEO advantages, and eCommerce tools that support long-term growth. Start the move today and unlock the benefits of a platform built for professional online selling.